Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. William Clark
Lead the charge for a sustainable future. Earn your Environmental Management Degree and positively impact the world, all from your screen.
Environmental Management deals with understanding the Earth’s ecological balance amidst ongoing technological revolutions, the expansion of transportation networks, unplanned urbanization, and the exploitation of resources. This program’s students learn about our planet’s environmental challenges, particularly within industrial contexts, focusing on regulatory compliance and industry practices. An environmental management degree equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for career advancement, emphasizing collaborative approaches and technological solutions while exploring theories relevant to environmental stewardship. An online environmental management degree helps graduates find employment opportunities with consulting firms, government agencies, and agricultural producers, contributing to maintaining sustainable environments. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals in this field can expect a job outlook of 6 percent[1], on par with the average for other occupations.
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Find the Best Environmental Management Degree Programs
When seeking a bachelor’s in environmental management degree online, comparing multiple colleges and programs is crucial. Coursework, requirements, research opportunities, and outcomes vary significantly between programs. Faculty experience, instructional quality, research resources, and cost should be weighed carefully before applying for admission. The teams at FBD have evaluated several bachelor programs on critical components and proprietary methodology, they have prepared a list of the best online bachelor’s in environmental management programs.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Columbia Southern University | 21982 University Lane, Orange Beach, Alabama 36561 | $3,640 | 37% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Environmental Management Degree Program
An environmental management degrees online provides a solid foundation in various fields, such as laboratory equipment usage, ecological operations, business management, and environmental laws. Typically consisting of 120 credits, the program can be completed in approximately four years. While colleges offer online, offline, and hybrid learning options, practical work is emphasized due to the program’s nature. Through coursework, students gain real-world experience in business and environmental settings via practical fieldwork and internships, offering valuable on-the-job training. Graduates of this degree can anticipate job opportunities in diverse sectors, including environmental science, natural resources, and agriculture, such as fiber production, sustainable food systems, ecological analysis and policy, energy and water resources, and natural resource stewardship.
Curriculum and Coursework
An environmental management degree program facilitates understanding Earth’s focus, resources, and impact on ecosystems. Participants delve into diverse topics such as hydrology, pest management, agricultural ecology, water resources, and soil sciences.
Most college curricula include mandatory general education courses such as Rhetoric and Composition, Introduction to Chemistry, Interpersonal Communication, Public Speaking, and others. While coursework varies among institutions, some standard courses commonly found across different schools include:
Environmental Science
This interdisciplinary course blends geography, physics, and biology, incorporating chemistry, plant science, zoology, mineralogy, limnology, and soil science. Students explore diverse aspects of the environment and develop solutions to address environmental challenges. Additionally, they gain insights into the interaction between the natural world and its surroundings, including the impact of construction projects on the environment.
Introduction to Business
This course offers insights into the foundational structures that underpin businesses worldwide. Participants delve into organizational frameworks, factors influencing business operations, and the dynamics of global economies and governmental policies affecting them. Additionally, students explore key domains of the business environment, analyzing how evolving social, political, demographic, and legal landscapes impact different types of organizations.
Microeconomics
The microeconomics course holds both practical and theoretical significance, emphasizing how individuals make decisions in response to price shifts, resource availability, incentives, and production techniques. Participants explore various microeconomic principles from normative and positive perspectives, delving into their historical implications through general equilibrium theory.
Water Operations and Management
This comprehensive course provides a thorough understanding of developing, managing, and planning water resources to address the quality and quantity of water usage. Participants explore the design of flexible and reliable systems tailored to deliver advanced solutions to enhance water quality infrastructure. Additionally, the course covers information systems, incentives, and institutions that support effective water management practices.
Environmental Regulations and Policy
Environmental policies address various environmental challenges, encompassing issues such as water and air pollution, ecosystem management, biodiversity preservation, and natural resource stewardship, among others, covered in this course. Participants also gain an understanding of an organization or government’s dedication to managing environmental challenges through regulatory frameworks, policies, and legislation.
Other standard courses commonly found across various curricula include:
- Principles of Management
- Environment and Ecosystems Principles
- Human Health and Disease
- Wastewater Operations and Management
- Current Issues for Managers
- Water in Motion
- Industrial Solutions
- Geographic Information Systems
- Environmental Health
- American Government
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Environmental Analysis
- Aquatic Evaluations and Bacteriology
- Environmental Technology
- Air Quality Management
- Pollution Prevention Strategies
- Global Environmental Management Issues
To better understand the undergraduate degree requirements, please consult the guide to bachelor’s programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The degree in environmental management online equips individuals with the depth and breadth of knowledge in ecological technologies and theory essential for professional practice in this field. The comprehensive curriculum covers various topics, from addressing critical environmental challenges to implementing industry-level regulations and best practices.
By the end of the program, students will develop skills such as:
- Demonstrating an understanding of team-based approaches to tackle environmental challenges.
- Applying environmental management theories and technologies to address ecological concerns effectively.
- Utilizing best environmental management practices employed by industry experts.
- Analyzing significant environmental challenges from both social and scientific perspectives.
- Understanding environmental concepts and their impact on ecosystem dynamics.
- Understanding various legal frameworks about hazardous waste and proposing strategies for environmental control.
- Recognizing and addressing safety and health management responsibilities for frontline workers conducting fieldwork.
- Identifying occupational hazards in the industry and implementing adult learning strategies for workplace health and safety training.
Types of Degrees Environmental Management Students Can Obtain
An online bachelor’s degree in environmental management covers various topics, including resource management, environmental science, geography, environmental policies, and more. Typically, there are two bachelor’s degrees in environmental management: a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in environmental management and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in environmental management.
Bachelors of Arts in Environmental Management
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in environmental management focuses on assessing, managing, and monitoring the impact of the environment on organizations, as well as engaging in multidisciplinary projects related to environmental issues. Graduates of this program can pursue employment opportunities in environmental management, including positions with local authorities, consultancies, and utility providers.
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Environmental Management focuses on safeguarding our planet by advocating for human behaviors that enhance the natural environment. Students delve into various issues such as global warming, soil erosion, landfills, depletion of Earth’s natural resources, and more while also developing solutions to address these challenges.
Areas of Specialization for Environmental Management Students
Specializing in environmental management within an online degree program offers students targeted knowledge and skills to address pressing environmental challenges. This focused approach equips students with expertise in areas crucial for sustainability and conservation efforts, providing them with opportunities to make meaningful contributions to environmental protection and management initiatives. The environmental management online degree provides students with various kinds of specializations, including:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Marine Resources Management | This specialization provides students with in-depth knowledge and skills specific to coastal ecosystems. They study conservation strategies, sustainable practices, and policies tailored to protect marine habitats, preparing them to address challenges unique to coastal environments. | Various roles as a Natural Resource Technician, Research Scientist, Marine resources manager, and more. |
| Conservation Planning | This specialization focuses on developing strategies and initiatives to safeguard natural habitats, biodiversity, and ecosystems. Students learn to assess environmental risks, identify conservation priorities, and design sustainable land use practices. | Various roles as a Program Coordinator, Urban Forestry officer, Wildlife Removal Technician, etc. |
| Corporate Environmental Management | This specialization focuses on integrating environmental considerations into business practices. Students learn strategies for sustainability, resource efficiency, and environmental compliance within corporate settings, preparing them to address organizational ecological challenges. | Various roles as an Environmental Scientist, Environmental Geologist, Ecologist, and more. |
| Economics and Politics of the Environment | This specialization explores the intersection of economic principles and political dynamics in environmental decision-making. Students analyze policy frameworks, economic incentives, and political influences shaping environmental outcomes, gaining insight into effective strategies for addressing environmental challenges through policy and governance. | Various roles as Agriculture conservation specialist, Climate change analyst, Research analyst, Environmental reporting specialist, and more. |
| Energy and Climate | This specialization explores the complex relationship between energy production, consumption, and climate change. Students explore renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency strategies, and climate mitigation policies, preparing them to address the urgent challenges of energy use and climate variability. | Various roles as Climate Scientist, Environmental Engineer, Renewal energy technician, and more. |
| Water Resources Management | This specialization focuses on the sustainable use and conservation of water resources. Students study hydrology, water quality management, and watershed management strategies, preparing them to address water scarcity, pollution, and ecosystem degradation through effective resource management practices. | Various roles as Human resources manager, water and wastewater technician, Project Manager, and more. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
The time it takes to complete an online environmental management bachelor degree depends on various factors, including student status, whether a student has a full course load, or previous credits. When taken up full-time, an online environmental management bachelor’s degree takes around four years to finish the curriculum. Generally, there is no definitive timeline for part-timers to complete a degree since it may depend on how many credits they can take each semester. An accelerated program can be completed in around two years. Here is a summary of the timeline for an environmental management bachelor’s degree, including:
- Full-Time Degree: A bachelor’s degree in environmental management can be completed in 4 years by full-time students.
- Part-Time degree: Part-time students can complete a bachelor’s degree in environmental management in 4-6 years.
Accelerated Environmental Management Programs
Accelerated bachelor’s programs are undergraduate degrees designed to expedite earning a degree compared to traditional four-year curricula. They are typically more fast-paced, offering credits for prior learning or experience and accepting more transfer credits. These programs benefit individuals seeking to enter professional roles more rapidly and advance their careers in environmental management. Here are a few universities that offer an accelerated online environmental management degree
Requirements for Getting into an Environmental Management Degree Program
Typically, admission criteria for a bachelor’s in environmental management program are straightforward. Most schools require high proficiency in math, English, sciences, and other relevant subjects. Conditional admission may be granted to applicants missing prerequisites, requiring them to complete any deficiencies by the end of their first year. Some standard online environmental management degree admission requirements include:
How to Ensure an Environmental Management Degree Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that educational programs meet specific standards of quality and rigor, enhancing credibility and trust. While there isn’t a specific accreditation solely for bachelor’s in environmental management, programs may be accredited by regional or specialized accrediting agencies. Accreditation ensures that graduates are well-prepared for their careers and may also facilitate the transfer of credits and eligibility for financial aid.
A college offering an online bachelor’s degree in environmental management can be accredited by any of the six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Environmental Management Degree Students
Several free online courses in environmental management are accessible to students, providing valuable supplementary knowledge and skills. Some courses offer certifications, enhancing students’ resumes and demonstrating their commitment to professional development. These resources broaden students’ understanding of environmental issues and management practices, complementing their bachelor’s degree studies in environmental management. Here are a few free environmental management courses that students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Environment & Sustainability[5] | This free course helps individuals learn about various sustainability and environmental challenges from interdisciplinary perspectives. Participants gain insights into declining fisheries, record-breaking global temperatures, human ecological impact, and more. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
| Global Environmental Management[6] | The free course teaches about the various environmental technologies necessary for sustainable development and how students manage diverse ecological settings worldwide. Students also gain insights into global trends influencing the environment and living conditions, equipping them with the knowledge to manage environmental challenges effectively. | Coursera |
| Climate Change[7] | The course on climate change explores some of the most significant challenges in the field and those pivotal to discovering solutions. It examines the flow of energy and carbon in climate systems, climate history, future forecasts, and the functioning of climate models. This comprehensive exploration equips students with a deeper understanding of climate dynamics and informs efforts to address climate change. | edX |
Ways to Pay for a Environmental Management Degree
As the course demands increase, so do the tuition costs, making it challenging for students to enroll in an online environmental management degree program. The financial burden can deter prospective students from pursuing their academic goals. However, exploring various options for funding can alleviate some of the financial strain associated with higher education.
Here are a few ways students can fund their programs:
Scholarships offer financial aid for students, easing the burden of tuition fees and expenses. They reward academic excellence, extracurricular achievements, and sometimes financial need. Scholarships empower individuals to pursue higher education, fostering talent and diversity while opening doors to opportunities for a brighter future.
Grants provide financial assistance without repayment, supporting various educational pursuits. These funds may come from government agencies, private organizations, or academic institutions, aiming to alleviate financial barriers and promote access to education for deserving individuals.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships offer students opportunities to gain hands-on experience and financial support while pursuing advanced degrees. Typically, these positions involve teaching, research, or administrative duties within the academic institution. They provide valuable mentorship and professional development and often include tuition waivers or stipends, easing the financial burden of graduate education.
Student Loans
Student loans are financial instruments designed to help students pay for higher education expenses, including tuition, books, and living costs. These loans can come from government agencies or private lenders and must be repaid with interest after graduation. While they enable access to education, they can also lead to significant debt burdens for students post-graduation.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial form for students seeking financial aid for college. It determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs based on financial need.
Scholarships for Environmental Management Degree Students
Scholarships for online environmental management degree students provide financial support for those pursuing studies in environmental science, policy, and sustainability remotely. These scholarships ease the financial burden of tuition and related expenses, making education more accessible. They enable students to focus on their studies, advance their careers, and contribute to addressing critical environmental challenges, fostering future leaders in environmental management and sustainability. Some online environmental management degree scholarships to consider include:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eckenfelder Scholarship[8] | This scholarship is offered in honor of Dr. Wesley Eckenfelder, Jr.’s career to support applicants interested in pursuing various careers in environmental-related professions. United States permanent residents enrolled in their undergraduate program’s junior or senior year at accredited universities are eligible to apply. | $5,000 | May annually |
| NEHA/AAS Scholarships[9] | The NEHA/AAS scholarship is provided to eligible undergraduate students who aim to contribute towards advancing environmental health. It helps encourage early commitment by undergraduates to pursue a profession in ecological health. | $2,650 | February annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Environmental Management Degree
After graduating, individuals can explore diverse career opportunities across various industries. These opportunities offer competitive salaries and growth potential, reflecting the value of their education and skills. Graduates can leverage their expertise to pursue fulfilling roles that align with their interests and aspirations, ensuring a rewarding professional journey beyond academia. An online environmental management degree will prepare students for various professions, including:
- Conservation Scientist
- Hydrologist
- Eco-tourism Manager
- Conservation Officer
- Environment Consultant
- Sustainability Consultant
- Restoration Ecologist
- Pollution Control Manager
- Project Manager
- Natural Resource Manager
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Scientist
- Communication and Public Awareness Officer
- Wildlife Manager
Here are a few more occupations explored further:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Scientists and Specialists[1] | Analytical, communication, interpersonal, problem-solving, and self-discipline. | $78,980 | 6% (faster than average) | Environmental scientists and specialists use their understanding of natural sciences to assess and mitigate impacts on human health and the environment. They collaborate with industry experts to mitigate pollution, reduce waste, and advise policymakers to promote environmental sustainability. |
| Conservation Scientists and Foresters[10] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, management, and physical stamina skills. | $68,300 | 4% (as fast as average) | Conservation scientists and foresters are responsible for managing the quality of forests, rangelands, parks, and other natural resources. They oversee forestry and conservation activities, ensuring compliance with government regulations to protect habitats and maintain environmental sustainability. |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians[11] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills. | $50,660 | 6% (faster than average) | Environmental science and protection technicians inspect various establishments, including public businesses and locations, to ensure health, safety, and environmental regulations compliance. They are also responsible for maintaining equipment used to monitor pollution levels, such as sensors for measuring smokestack emissions, contributing to preserving environmental quality and public health. |
| Hydrologists[12] | Analytical, critical thinking, communication, interpersonal, and physical stamina skills. | $88,770 | 1% (little or no change) | Hydrologists typically research water movement across the Earth’s crust and assess precipitation’s impact on groundwater and river flow levels, including snow and rain. They analyze how water affects the quantity and quality of water resources, providing expertise to address water-related challenges and ensure sustainable management of water systems. |
| Atmospheric Scientists, Including Meteorologists[13] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, and math skills. | $92,860 | 4%(as fast as average) | Atmospheric scientists study the climate and weather, compiling data, preparing forecasts and reports, and assisting in developing instruments for data collection. They also measure atmospheric characteristics such as dew point, humidity, wind speed, and temperature. |
| Geoscientists[14] | Communication, critical thinking, outdoor, physical stamina, and problem-solving skills. | $92,580 | 5% (faster than average) | Geoscientists plan and conduct various field studies, visiting multiple locations to conduct surveys and collect samples. They analyze rock samples, aerial photographs, and other data sources to locate natural resource deposits and understand their size and composition. |
Certifications and Licensing for Environmental Management Degree Graduates
Certifications and licensing for online bachelor’s students in environmental management can enhance career prospects by validating their expertise and skills. While not mandatory in the USA, these credentials can significantly improve job opportunities, credibility, and earning potential. They demonstrate a commitment to professional standards and can be essential for certain specialized roles within the environmental management field. Here are a few professional certifications that can be pursued with an online degree in environmental management:
Registered Environmental Manager [15]
The National Registry of Environmental Professionals certifies individuals as credible environmental professionals. It helps them advance their careers and gain the recognition needed to maintain their professional practice and status within highly specialized domains, fostering good relationships with the environment.
Certified Environmental and Safety Compliance Officer[16]
This certification is designed for professionals who understand the fundamentals of significant regulations and laws related to water, wastewater pollution, solid or hazardous wastes, and safety. Those with a bachelor’s degree in any environmental specialization, such as health and science, environmental management, hazardous materials, and more, can apply for this certification.
Additional Resources for Environmental Management Degree Graduates
Students and professionals benefit from engaging with professional associations supporting environmental management. Memberships and conferences enhance networking opportunities with industry leaders. Members gain access to valuable resources such as job boards, publications, case studies, articles, books, etc. Here are some that bachelor’s degree in environmental management online students can consider:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| The Nature Conservancy | The Nature Conservancy is a global organization dedicated to creating an international environment where nature and people can thrive. They aim to conserve the lands and waters on which life depends, halt catastrophic climate change and biodiversity loss, and protect communities from various natural hazards. |
| Office of Environmental Management- Department of Energy | The U.S. Department of Energy oversees the Office of Environmental Management, which tackles the Cold War environmental legacy resulting from decades of government-sponsored nuclear energy research and nuclear weapons production. They offer diverse resources for vacancies suitable for college graduates, promote equal employment opportunities, etc. |
| Natural Resources Defense Council | The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) aims to safeguard the planet, animals, plants, people, and natural systems vital for life. Members are part of a national environmental advocacy group dedicated to legal actions and commitments to protect and promote environmental sustainability. |
| 1% for the Planet | This organization aims to collectively protect our planet by funding diverse environmental organizations to address global challenges. They connect members with high-impact environmental partners, aligning values and enhancing brand stories to promote their impact on environmental issues. |
| American Forests | American Forests is one of the oldest nonprofit national conservation organizations in the United States. Their extensive forest expertise and collaborative efforts to promote a reforestation movement have made them a highly sought-after organization. |
FAQs About Environmental Management Degree Programs
Can you get an environmental management degree online?
Many universities offer these degrees online, partially or entirely, allowing students to study this program conveniently. Courses may be offered in asynchronous or synchronous learning modes, enabling students to learn at their own pace and from their preferred geographical location.
Are any prerequisites required for admission into an online environmental management degree?
What can you do with an online environmental management degree?
What professions can undergraduates of environmental management degrees pursue?
Is an online degree in environmental management worth it?
Does one gain practical experience through an online bachelors in environmental management degree?
Is a bachelor’s in environmental management enough to become a professional in the ecological management domain?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Environmental Scientists and Specialists
Environment & Sustainability-MIT OpenCourseWare
Global Environmental Management-Coursera
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Conservation Scientists and Foresters
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Hydrologists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Geoscientists