Best Online Master’s in Environmental Sciences

Best Online Master’s in Environmental Sciences

Find top-ranked online master’s in environmental sciences degree programs to help students learn how to address real and current environmental issues during their studies while taking courses that discuss topics like conservation, environmental law, and environmental biogeochemistry.

Top 10 Online Environmental Sciences Master's Degrees

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  1. Johns Hopkins University
  2. University of Oklahoma
  3. Duke University
  4. University of Arizona
  5. University of Missouri
  6. Mississippi State University
  7. Virginia Tech
  8. University of Alabama
  9. North Carolina State University
  10. University of Connecticut
  1. Johns Hopkins University
  2. Duke University
  3. University of Arizona
  4. University of Missouri
  5. University of Alabama
  6. University of Kentucky
  7. University of Connecticut
  8. University of Oklahoma
  9. Virginia Tech
  10. North Carolina State University
  1. Western Kentucky University 97%
  2. Old Dominion University 95%
  3. University of Kentucky 95%
  4. University of Memphis 95%
  5. Michigan Technological University 94%
  6. University of the Pacific 93%
  7. University of Arizona 87%
  8. University of Alabama at Birmingham 87%
  9. Sam Houston State University 85%
  10. Missouri University of Science and Technology 81%
  1. University of Central Florida 29 to 1
  2. Florida International University 24 to 1
  3. University of Arkansas 20 to 1
  4. Sam Houston State University 20 to 1
  5. University of Alabama 19 to 1
  6. University of Missouri 18 to 1
  7. Western Kentucky University 18 to 1
  8. Montana State University 18 to 1
  9. University of Alabama at Birmingham 18 to 1
  10. Missouri University of Science and Technology 18 to 1
  1. Duke University $62,688
  2. Johns Hopkins University $60,480
  3. Worcester Polytechnic Institute $57,096
  4. Rochester Institute of Technology $54,518
  5. University of the Pacific $53,682
  6. Loyola University Chicago $49,498
  7. Nova Southeastern University $36,300
  8. Tuskegee University $22,614
  9. Michigan Technological University $18,592
  10. University of Connecticut $15,672
  1. Johns Hopkins University $60,480
  2. Duke University $60,220
  3. Rochester Institute of Technology $54,176
  4. University of the Pacific $51,382
  5. Worcester Polytechnic Institute $28,980
  6. Michigan Technological University $23,607
  7. Nova Southeastern University $22,062
  8. Tuskegee University $20,378
  9. Loyola University Chicago $19,440
  10. University of Connecticut $18,174
  1. Missouri University of Science and Technology
  2. Sam Houston State University
  3. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
  4. Rochester Institute of Technology
  5. Loyola University Chicago
  6. Tuskegee University
  7. Montana State University
  8. Nova Southeastern University
  9. University of the Pacific
  10. Old Dominion University
  1. Western Kentucky University
  2. Nova Southeastern University
  3. Sam Houston State University
  4. Missouri University of Science and Technology
  5. Michigan Technological University
  6. Montana State University
  7. Old Dominion University
  8. University of Idaho
  9. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
  10. Rochester Institute of Technology
  1. Duke University 6%
  2. Johns Hopkins University 7%
  3. Tuskegee University 30%
  4. University of Central Florida 41%
  5. North Carolina State University 47%
  6. University of Connecticut 55%
  7. Worcester Polytechnic Institute 57%
  8. Virginia Tech 57%
  9. Florida International University 64%
  10. Rochester Institute of Technology 67%
  1. Duke University 6 to 1
  2. Johns Hopkins University 6 to 1
  3. Tuskegee University 7 to 1
  4. Michigan Technological University 13 to 1
  5. Worcester Polytechnic Institute 13 to 1
  6. Loyola University Chicago 13 to 1
  7. Rochester Institute of Technology 13 to 1
  8. University of the Pacific 14 to 1
  9. Mississippi State University 16 to 1
  10. North Carolina State University 16 to 1
  1. University of Central Florida $4,478
  2. Florida International University $4,721
  3. University of Oklahoma $4,920
  4. Montana State University $5,824
  5. Sam Houston State University $5,856
  6. University of Idaho $6,182
  7. North Carolina State University $6,535
  8. Old Dominion University $7,239
  9. University of Arkansas $7,666
  10. University of Nebraska–Lincoln $7,770
  1. Montana State University $5,241
  2. Sam Houston State University $5,765
  3. University of Nebraska–Lincoln $6,138
  4. University of Central Florida $6,916
  5. University of Idaho $7,754
  6. University of Arkansas $7,875
  7. University of Oklahoma $8,034
  8. University of Alabama at Birmingham $8,424
  9. North Carolina State University $9,095
  10. Florida International University $9,119

Featured Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Environmental Sciences Degrees

This degree is targeted toward working professionals who want to further research the impact of environmental science in areas like policy, alternative energies, soil science, and public health. Students can earn their master’s degree in environmental sciences either online or in person over the course of two to three years.

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Most degree programs require about 30-45 credits, several of which will likely be dedicated to completing a thesis.

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Students will learn how to address real and current environmental issues during their studies while taking courses that discuss topics like conservation, environmental law, and environmental biogeochemistry.

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Upon graduation, students may be ready for leadership positions in their current organizations or for jobs like land surveyors, hydrologists, geoscientists, and environmental consultants.

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Learn more about what you can do with a master’s degree in earth sciences.

Best Online Master’s in Environmental Sciences Degree Programs

  1. #1

    Johns Hopkins University

    Baltimore , MD
    #11 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #11 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #11 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #14 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1545/34

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Johns Hopkins University

    Cost of Degree: $65,956
    Expenses: $22,725
    Starting Salary: $82,629
    Salary after 4 years: $92,219
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Environmental Sciences and Policy
    • Required Credits: 30-39
    • Completion time: 1-2 years
    • Format: Online
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  2. #2

    University of Oklahoma

    Norman , OK
    #1 Best Grad Schools in Oklahoma 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Oklahoma 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    32K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1230/26

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Oklahoma

    Cost of Degree: $9,082
    Expenses: $20,891
    Starting Salary: $60,734
    Salary after 4 years: $67,567
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MES in Environmental Science
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion time: 21 months
    • Format: Online
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  3. #3

    Duke University

    Durham , NC
    #1 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #6 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #13 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Duke University

    Cost of Degree: $63,985
    Expenses: $21,267
    Starting Salary: $105,947
    Salary after 4 years: $118,243
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MEM in Master’s of Environmental Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  4. #4

    University of Arizona

    Tucson , AZ
    #3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #20 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #20 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/25

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Arizona

    Cost of Degree: $14,389
    Expenses: $19,500
    Starting Salary: $54,945
    Salary after 4 years: $61,127
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    Master in Legal Studies

    Concentrations

    • Environmental Law and Policy
    • Mining Law and Policy
    • Compliance and Legal Risk Management
    • International Economic Law and Policy
    • Intellectual Property
    • Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy
    • Human Rights
    • Tax Law and Policy
    • Criminal Law and Policy
    • Family and Juvenile Law
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  5. #5

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/26

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $13,029
    Expenses: $18,142
    Starting Salary: $55,534
    Salary after 4 years: $61,782
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA/MS in Environment and Behavior
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  7. #6

    Mississippi State University

    Mississippi State , MS
    #2 Best Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Mississippi 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Mississippi 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/25

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Mississippi State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,815
    Expenses: $19,639
    Starting Salary: $46,507
    Salary after 4 years: $51,739
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Civil Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Environmental Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30-33
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  8. #7

    Virginia Tech

    Blacksburg , VA
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2025 #3 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    39K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1335/29

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Virginia Tech

    Cost of Degree: $18,013
    Expenses: $21,774
    Starting Salary: $65,836
    Salary after 4 years: $73,243
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Agriculture and Life Sciences

    Concentrations

    • Applied Animal Behavior and Welfare
    • Applied Nutrition and Physical Activity
    • Education
    • Environmental Science
    • Food Safety and Biosecurity
    • Leadership Studies
    • Plant Science and Pest Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Agriculture and Life Sciences

    Concentrations

    • Environmental Science
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  9. #8

    University of Alabama

    Tuscaloosa , AL
    #13 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2025 #1 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    42K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1270/27

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $11,740
    Expenses: $21,482
    Starting Salary: $50,628
    Salary after 4 years: $56,324
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Human Environmental Sciences
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Human Environmental Sciences (Consumer Quality Management)
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  10. #9

    North Carolina State University

    Raleigh , NC
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1370/30

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at North Carolina State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,819
    Expenses: $17,709
    Starting Salary: $58,380
    Salary after 4 years: $64,947
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MENE in Environmental Engineering
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    EA in Environmental Assessment
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  11. #10

    University of Connecticut

    Storrs , CT
    #1 Best Public Colleges in Connecticut 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Connecticut 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Connecticut 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Connecticut 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    55%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    29K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1330/30

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Connecticut

    Cost of Degree: $22,194
    Expenses: $19,316
    Starting Salary: $64,757
    Salary after 4 years: $72,042
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MEEM in Energy and Environmental Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  13. #11

    Michigan Technological University

    Houghton , MI
    #7 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/27

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Michigan Technological University

    Cost of Degree: $24,929
    Expenses: $16,366
    Starting Salary: $65,542
    Salary after 4 years: $72,915
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Integrated Geospatial Technology

    Concentrations

    • Earth Observation Systems and Remote Sensing
    • Geodesy and Geodetic Sciences
    • Geoinformatics
    • Geospatial Intelligence
    • Giscience and Geoinformatics
    • Geospatial Visualization Ad Cartography
    • Photogrammetry and Geospatial Imaging
    • Surveying
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  14. #12

    University of Kentucky

    Lexington , KY
    #14 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in Kentucky 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1180/24

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Kentucky

    Cost of Degree: $14,330
    Expenses: $21,886
    Starting Salary: $52,983
    Salary after 4 years: $58,944
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Applied Environmental & Sustainability Studies
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MPH in Public Health

    Concentrations

    • Health Systems and Policy Analytics
    • Epidemiology
    • Environmental Health
    • Health Behavior
    • Required Credits: 42
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
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  15. #13

    University of Arkansas

    Fayetteville , AR
    #1 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    32K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1125/24

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Arkansas

    Cost of Degree: $12,160
    Expenses: $20,260
    Starting Salary: $51,708
    Salary after 4 years: $57,525
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Human Environmental Sciences
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
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  16. #14

    University of Central Florida

    Orlando , FL
    #7 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #7 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #19 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    41%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    82K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1280/27

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Central Florida

    Cost of Degree: $8,872
    Expenses: $18,300
    Starting Salary: $50,236
    Salary after 4 years: $55,887
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Environmental Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  17. #15

    University of Alabama at Birmingham

    Birmingham , AL
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2025 #3 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1305/26

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Alabama at Birmingham

    Cost of Degree: $8,424
    Expenses: $20,547
    Starting Salary: $47,489
    Salary after 4 years: $52,831
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Public Health

    Concentrations

    • Outcomes Research
    • Environmental and Occupational Health
    • Epidemiology
    • Health Behavior
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  19. #16

    University of Memphis

    Memphis , TN
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1080/20

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Memphis

    Cost of Degree: $11,214
    Expenses: $17,726
    Starting Salary: $42,386
    Salary after 4 years: $47,155
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Nutrition - Environmental Nutrition
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  20. #17

    University of Idaho

    Moscow , ID
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Idaho 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Idaho 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Idaho 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Idaho 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/23

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Idaho

    Cost of Degree: $10,548
    Expenses: $15,164
    Starting Salary: $46,115
    Salary after 4 years: $51,303
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Environmental Science
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  21. #18

    Western Kentucky University

    Bowling Green , KY
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Kentucky 2025 #3 Best Public Colleges in Kentucky 2025 #3 Best Colleges in Kentucky 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1075/21

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Western Kentucky University

    Cost of Degree: $12,140
    Expenses: $15,452
    Starting Salary: $37,873
    Salary after 4 years: $42,134
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Environmental and Occupational Health Science
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  22. #19

    Florida International University

    Miami , FL
    #6 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025 #5 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    72K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/23

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Florida International University

    Cost of Degree: $11,334
    Expenses: $19,406
    Starting Salary: $51,021
    Salary after 4 years: $56,760
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MPH in Public Health

    Concentrations

    • Environmental Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  23. #20

    University of Nebraska–Lincoln

    Lincoln , NE
    #1 Best Grad Schools in Nebraska 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in Nebraska 2025 #1 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1225/25

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of Nebraska–Lincoln

    Cost of Degree: $8,168
    Expenses: $18,548
    Starting Salary: $51,708
    Salary after 4 years: $57,525
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MA in Critical & Creative Thinking

    Concentrations

    • Health and The Environment
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MPH in Public Health

    Concentrations

    • Environmental and Occupational Health
    • Required Credits: 42
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  25. #21

    Old Dominion University

    Norfolk , VA
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1170/24

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Old Dominion University

    Cost of Degree: $14,848
    Expenses: $19,392
    Starting Salary: $47,783
    Salary after 4 years: $53,158
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Public Health Global Environmental Health
    • Required Credits: 43
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Environmental Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    University of the Pacific

    Stockton , CA
    #4 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs) #6 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Speech Pathology #7 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $54K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1271/29

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at University of the Pacific

    Cost of Degree: $53,544
    Expenses: $21,176
    Starting Salary: $77,910
    Salary after 4 years: $86,952
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    LLM in Law

    Concentrations

    • Water & Environmental Law
    • Required Credits: 24
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Law

    Concentrations

    • Water and Environmental Law
    • Required Credits: 26
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
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  27. #23

    Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale , FL
    #3 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #1 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Nova Southeastern University

    Cost of Degree: $24,140
    Expenses: $22,596
    Starting Salary: $51,447
    Salary after 4 years: $57,417
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Disaster and Emergency Management

    Concentrations

    • Environmental Hazards
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  28. #24

    Montana State University

    Bozeman , MT
    #2 Best Research Universities in Montana 2025 #2 Best Colleges in Montana 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Montana 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Montana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1180/23

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Montana State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,313
    Expenses: $18,588
    Starting Salary: $47,979
    Salary after 4 years: $53,377
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Land Resources and Environmental Sciences
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  31. #26

    Loyola University Chicago

    Chicago , IL
    #1 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #11 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $49K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/29

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Loyola University Chicago

    Cost of Degree: $22,305
    Expenses: $19,694
    Starting Salary: $58,757
    Salary after 4 years: $65,576
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MSN in Population-Based Infection Control & Environmental Safety (Pices) Advanced Practice Nursing
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  32. #27

    Rochester Institute of Technology

    Rochester , NY
    #1 Best Online Associate's in General Science 2025 #1 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in New York 2025 #2 Best Online MBA Programs in New York 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $55K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1360/31

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Rochester Institute of Technology

    Cost of Degree: $57,764
    Expenses: $18,316
    Starting Salary: $62,735
    Salary after 4 years: $70,016
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Environmental, Health and Safety Management
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  33. #28

    Worcester Polytechnic Institute

    Worcester , MA
    #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025 #9 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025 #13 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $57K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

    Cost of Degree: $29,040
    Expenses: $20,472
    Starting Salary: $78,281
    Salary after 4 years: $87,365
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  34. #29

    Sam Houston State University

    Huntsville , TX
    #10 Best Colleges and Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025 #1 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice #4 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1050/21

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Sam Houston State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,954
    Expenses: $16,966
    Starting Salary: $48,764
    Salary after 4 years: $54,250
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MAg in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Environment (SAFE)
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  35. #30

    Missouri University of Science and Technology

    Rolla , MO
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2024 #4 Best Colleges in Missouri 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1271/28

    Career Outlook for Environmental Science degree at Missouri University of Science and Technology

    Cost of Degree: $14,478
    Expenses: $15,282
    Starting Salary: $71,037
    Salary after 4 years: $79,028
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    MS in Environmental Engineering
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS in Geological Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Engineering Geology and Geotechnics
    • Environmental and Hydrology
    • Engineering Geophysics
    • Data Analysis
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MS, PhD in Civil Engineering

    Concentrations

    • Environmental Engineering
    • Structural Engineering
    • Geotechnical Engineering
    • Water Resources Engineering
    • Construction Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Not sure if an online master’s in environmental science is for you? Check out our rankings for online master’s in higher education, nursing education, or agribusiness!

Back to Top

Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require some adjustment. While you’ll generally learn the same content and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, the medium will likely require you to manage much of this experience independently. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, your ability to harness the technology at your fingertips, and your ability to focus on the lectures, lessons, and assignments at hand. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take it upon yourself to build relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier is actually getting there. Taking the commute out of the equation means getting to class should be a lot more manageable. But that’s where it ends. In general, your online courses will incorporate the very same materials, concepts, and testing methods as would a traditional classroom.

And in many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning or working with remote learning technology for the first time, online college may even be a little more challenging for you. For a few insights on how to manage this new experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable institutions and less-than-reputable for-profit schools. Accreditation gives you the power to differentiate between the two. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency which indicates that a college or university is meeting standards of quality, credibility, and currency. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university which is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. When seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that students opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited, you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer. In many cases, you will be required to navigate a bureaucracy in which some of your credits will be transferred and others will be jettisoned. However, provided that you have attended an online school with the proper regional accreditation, you should have plenty of options for transfer.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript or resume differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

While some employers may express concern about making the adjustment from online education to in-person workplace collaboration, many other employers will view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st Century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will require some adjustment.

While there is much that can be supplanted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing which can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual classroom setting. As you make the adjustment to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face is overcoming this difference in order to the get the most out of your classes. Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. First and foremost, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Resources for Prospective Grad Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here