A career in environmental science can be very rewarding for people who are passionate about the planet. As many careers in this field require a degree for employment opportunities, many students wish to earn an online environmental science degree.
What is an Environmental Science Degree?
Environmental science is the study of natural and human-made environments, environmental issues, and the effects humans have on the environment. An environmental science degree is an educational award for academics in natural sciences. Students working to earn this type of degree typically aspire to obtain a career in research, environmental studies, or preventative care for the environment. Students in this area of study will generally work towards earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree, as many career opportunities will require at least a bachelor’s degree for entry-level positions.
Coursework in Environmental Science
Generally, students will choose a major depending on which area of specialization they wish to work. As different majors require different core classes, requirements to complete each degree program will vary. Environmental science degree programs will often include core classes in mathematics, natural sciences, and social sciences. As students attend graduate school, degree program courses will go more in-depth in the student’s chosen specialties.
In addition to general education courses, students in this area of study will need prerequisite courses in general sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics. Program and prerequisite course requirements may vary among different online institutions and universities. Therefore, it is important to research the prospective program for student eligibility requirements.
Institutions Offering Online Environmental Science Degrees
It is more common to find online degree programs offering a bachelor’s degree than those offering master’s or doctorate degrees. However, earning these higher-level degrees online is not impossible. Below are three of the best institutions offering an environmental science degree online.
- University of Pheonix- The University of Pheonix offers a B.S. Degree in Environmental Science online. This program requires 120 credits for completion and generally takes students about four years to achieve. Additionally, students will learn concepts in renewable energy, sustainability, and urban infrastructure.
- Organ State University- OSU offers students a B.S. in Environmental Science Degree. This program takes about four years to complete and requires 180 credits for fulfillment. This program offers a wide range of specialty courses. Thus, giving students the opportunity to work in specific fields of environmental science.
- Montana State University- MSU offers a Professional M.S. in Land Resources and Environmental Sciences. This program requires completion of a bachelor’s degree program in related fields of study and takes 30 credits to complete. Additionally, the program takes two to six years to complete depending on study intensity, previous coursework, and class availability.
While there are several online degree options available, students should take the time to research each institution and degree program carefully. Obtaining an online environmental science degree can provide many career opportunities for graduates. However, career opportunities will vary depending on the student’s major and level of degree. Additionally, entry-level positions in this field usually require at least a bachelor’s degree or higher for consideration. If you are passionate about solving environmental issues, an online environmental science degree is a convenient way to enter into this field of science.
