10 Best Online Environmental Science Degrees 2026

Environmental science programs teach students how to study ecosystems, analyze environmental data, and develop sustainable solutions to global challenges. Earning a degree in this field can prepare you for meaningful work in conservation, policy, or research.

If you're looking for flexibility and value, many schools now offer affordable online environmental science degrees that provide scientific learning along with practical experience. Let's take a look at some of the best online degrees in environmental science designed to help you build a rewarding, environmentally focused career.

Best Online Environmental Science Schools

While environmental science isn't the most popular major for online students, there are still several schools across the country that offer these degrees online. We've highlighted some of the best online environmental science degrees below.

1. Antioch University

Antioch University offers a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in environmental studies online. The private institution is based in Culver City, CA, but has multiple campuses across the country.

In the bachelor's program, students focus on sustainability and science with online courses on conservation science, environmental ethics, environmental health, ocean science, and more. Optional field opportunities are available to environmental science majors.

The master's degree offers several concentrations, including conservation biology, environmental education, and sustainability. Additionally, the university offers a master's in natural resource management as well as graduate certificates in climate resistance and geographic information systems (GIS).

2. Florida International University

Florida International University is a public institution in Miami, FL. It offers an online Bachelor of Arts in sustainability and the environment that includes courses on:

• climate change policy
• coastal and marine environmental policy
• natural resource valuation and economics
• U.S. environmental policy

This online program teaches students to develop creative, adaptive solutions to real-world challenges. Tuition is exceptionally low at FIU, at just $235.57 per credit hour for in-state students.

3. North Carolina Central University

At North Carolina Central University, students can earn a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in environmental and geographic sciences online. The public HBCU is based in Durham, NC.

The bachelor's degree includes courses on meteorology, applied geospatial statistics, atmospheric dynamics, and more. Students also have the option to earn an undergraduate certificate in geospatial intelligence, accredited by the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation, as part of their program.

In the master's degree, students develop a broad understanding of geosciences with a focus on human-earth interaction. The program concludes with the student's choice of an internship or thesis project.

4. Oregon State University

Both an online bachelor's and a master's in environmental sciences are available from Oregon State University. OSU, located in Corvallis, OR, is a public institution.

The undergraduate program offers several areas of specialization, including applied ecology, earth systems, environmental water resources, and social sciences. An accelerated bachelor's to master's program is available for students who want to continue on to a graduate degree.

The master's degree at OSU is one of the top online master's degrees in environmental science in the country. Like the bachelor's degree, it also offers several specializations, such as biogeochemistry, climate change, natural resources, and water resources.

5. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers a Bachelor of Science in environmental science online. This program offers two tracks: data analytics in science or natural resources and conservation.

In this program, students build the competencies needed to be leaders in conserving and managing the Earth's resources. Students can bring in up to 90 transfer credits.

SNHU is a private university based in Manchester, NH. While it doesn't offer a master's degree in environmental science, it does offer a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in sustainability and environmental compliance.

6. Unity Environmental University

Unity Environmental University is a private institution in New Gloucester, ME, that is primarily focused on environmental science and sustainability. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in environmental studies that focuses on a range of environmental issues, such as:

• climate refugee crisis
• forever chemicals
• ocean acidification
• renewable energy

Additionally, Unity offers a variety of other online majors that may be compelling to students interested in environmental science, such as majors in environmental engineering, marine biology and sustainable aquaculture, and wildlife conservation.

Similarly, while there is no online master's degree specifically in environmental science or studies, online degrees are available in fields like climate change adaptation and resistance, carbon ecology and management, environmental data analytics, marine conservation biology, and more.

7. University of Arizona

Students at the University of Arizona can earn a bachelor's and a master's in environmental science online. Located in Tucson, AZ, the university is a public research institution.

In the bachelor's degree program, students learn to find innovative and sustainable solutions to today's critical environmental problems. Core courses tackle topics like environmental management, pollution science, water quality, and environmental microbiology.

The master's degree is an interdisciplinary, collaborative program that helps students hone the critical thinking, data analysis, and stewardship skills necessary to become effective environmental scientists. Coursework includes subjects like environmental physics, scientific writing, and statistical analysis of ecological and environmental data.

8. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

An online bachelor's degree in earth, society, and environmental sustainability is available through the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Students in this program choose between two concentrations: science in the earth system or society and the environment.

UIUC, a public research university, is located in Champaign, IL. It also offers an online Master of Science in natural resources and environmental sciences, which offers a variety of core and elective courses on wildlife conservation, GIS for environmental management, ecosystem biogeochemistry, and more.

9. Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Wesleyan University offers a bachelor's and a master's in environmental studies online. The private school is located in Virginia Beach, VA.

The bachelor's degree prepares students for career opportunities in corporate sustainability, conservation, and environmental science, Courses explore subjects like environmental ethics, environmental policy, oceanography, and geographic information systems.

In the master's degree, advanced coursework focuses on environmental management, environmental policy, climate change, and water resources management. A capstone project is required to conclude the program.

10. Wilmington University

Wilmington University is a private university in New Castle, DE. It offers a variety of online programs, including a Bachelor of Science in environmental science and policy and a Master of Science in environmental science.

In the bachelor's program, students cover courses on environmental planning and policy, marine science, climate change, and geographic information systems. An accelerated bachelor's-to-master's path is available.

The master's program allows students to advance their career opportunities with courses on biodiversity, ecosystem management, environmental geology, and more. The program concludes with a research project.

How We Rank Schools

We ranked programs based on factors that reflect academic quality, accessibility, and real-world preparation. Each featured school provides a strong foundation in the natural sciences while offering flexibility for distance learners.

• Accreditation: Only accredited institutions were selected to ensure each program meets national standards for higher education and scientific study.
• Affordability: Tuition costs, transfer credit options, and financial aid opportunities were considered to feature cost-effective degrees.
• Environmental application: We also looked for programs emphasizing sustainability, fieldwork, and applied research in environmental problem-solving.

What Should I Look for in an Environmental Science Program?

Choosing an online environmental science degree involves finding a program that balances coursework in natural sciences with practical field or research experience. Strong programs help you understand environmental systems while gaining skills that translate to multiple career paths.

Accreditation and Scientific Standards

Accreditation ensures that your degree will be recognized by employers and graduate schools. Accredited programs follow rigorous academic standards, often integrating core subjects like biology, chemistry, and geology. This recognition also helps you qualify for certifications or advanced study in environmental fields.

Hands-On Experience and Fieldwork

Environmental science is rooted in observation and experimentation, so it's important to find programs that include hands-on or project-based learning. Some online degrees include virtual labs or local field experiences that let students apply theory to real-world settings. You'll develop your ability to collect, analyze, and interpret environmental data.

Curriculum and Areas of Focus

Online programs typically offer concentrations such as environmental policy, sustainability studies, or conservation science. These focus areas allow students to tailor their coursework to personal or professional interests. A well-rounded curriculum should include topics in ecology, resource management, and environmental ethics.

Flexibility and Support

Strong online environmental science programs provide flexible scheduling and tools that help students balance academics with work or family commitments. Many offer asynchronous courses, digital lab resources, and career advising for online learners.

Careers for Environmental Science Graduates

Graduates with environmental science degrees can pursue careers in government, research, or nonprofit organizations. Common job titles include environmental scientist, conservation specialist, and sustainability coordinator.

Some graduates work in consulting or policy development, helping businesses and communities make more sustainable choices. With a mix of science, data analysis, and communication skills, environmental science professionals play a key role in protecting the planet.

FAQs About the Best Online Environmental Science Degrees

Prospective students often ask about fieldwork requirements, online flexibility, and potential career outcomes. Below, we answer a few of the most common questions about studying environmental science online.

Can You Study Environmental Science Fully Online?

Yes, many accredited universities offer online environmental science degrees that include virtual labs and remote research projects. Some programs even partner with local organizations for hands-on fieldwork. While certain specialized roles may require in-person lab experience, online students can still gain practical skills through project-based assignments and data analysis.

What Skills Will I Gain With an Environmental Science Degree?

Students learn to analyze environmental data, assess human impact, and create strategies for sustainability. Coursework strengthens skills in critical thinking, scientific research, and communication.

Graduates also develop the ability to work across disciplines, mixing science with policy and social awareness. These skills are valuable in both technical and leadership roles within environmental organizations.

What Jobs Can I Get With an Environmental Science Degree?

Environmental science graduates work in a variety of sectors, including government, education, and consulting. Common positions include environmental analyst, park ranger, and research associate.

Others pursue careers in renewable energy or environmental advocacy. The growing focus on sustainability means professionals in this field are in consistent demand across industries.

Find Online Bachelor's Degrees Today

Find the perfect online degree in environmental science by exploring the programs featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to learn more about admissions, enrollment, and tuition rates.