Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. William Clark
Chart a sustainable path forward with an Online Master’s in Environmental Management. Equip yourself to lead eco-friendly initiatives and protect our planet conveniently online.
An online master’s in environmental management is a graduate-level program that focuses on the principles and practices of managing environmental resources, addressing challenges, and promoting sustainability. Students study science, public policy, sociology, technology, and more, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to understand and address environmental issues from a management perspective. A master’s in environmental management online can lead to diverse career opportunities in government agencies, non-profit organizations, consulting firms, corporations, research institutions, and international organizations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals in this field can earn an average of $78,980[1] annually.
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Programs
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: MBA with concentration in Engineering Management
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
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National University
PROGRAM: Find Best Degree
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Online Master’s in Environmental Management Programs
Students seeking a master’s in environmental management degree online must carefully compare programs. Significant variations exist in coursework, requirements, research opportunities, and outcomes. Factors like faculty expertise, instructional quality, research resources, and cost should be thoroughly evaluated before applying. The teams at FBD have assessed multiple programs and, using a proprietary methodology, compiled a list of the best online master’s in environmental management programs.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783 | $9,432 | 30% |
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 Online Master’s in Environmental Management Program
An online master’s in environmental management typically comprises around 30-45 credits and can be completed in an average of two years. These programs emphasize developing practical skills essential in environmental management, such as project management, data analysis, environmental assessment techniques, and communication and leadership skills. Schools offer this coursework online, offline, or through hybrid learning modes, allowing collaboration and networking with professors, classmates, and professionals in the field. Some colleges also facilitate collaboration and networking with professors, classmates, and professionals. The curriculum may differ slightly depending on whether students choose a thesis or non-thesis environmental management program. Graduates can pursue job roles such as environmental manager, sustainability consultant, policy analyst, environmental planner, conservation scientist, or environmental project manager.
Curriculum and Coursework
The curriculum typically covers environmental policy and law, sustainability, natural resource management, environmental impact assessment, conservation, climate change, and environmental economics. It equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address environmental issues from a management perspective.
Some programs may require a thesis or research project as a degree requirement. Completing a thesis involves research, data collection, analysis, and writing. Many programs require students to complete a capstone project or thesis. This project allows them to apply their knowledge and skills to an environmental management issue or research question.
The specific coursework in an online Master’s program in Environmental Management may vary depending on the institution and program specialization. However, here are some typical courses that students may encounter in a master’s in environmental management online:
Environmental Policy and Law
This course offers an overview of environmental law, encompassing its historical evolution, fundamental principles, and key legal concepts. Students delve into the interplay between environmental law and other legal domains, such as constitutional and administrative law. Additionally, they examine the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.
Natural Resource Management
This course provides an overview of natural resources, emphasizing their significance and the challenges in their management. Students explore the interdisciplinary nature of natural resource management and sustainability principles. They examine strategies for sustainable resource utilization, considering factors like carrying capacity, ecosystem services, and equitable resource allocation.
Environmental Science and Ecology
This course explores the structure and functioning of ecosystems, covering energy flow, nutrient cycling, and ecological interactions among organisms. Concepts like food webs, trophic levels, and ecological succession are introduced. Additionally, students focus on environmental principles and processes unique to various environments, including terrestrial ecosystems, aquatic ecosystems (freshwater and marine systems), and urban ecosystems.
Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility
This course explores the principles, strategies, and practices organizations can embrace to advance sustainability and social responsibility. Topics covered include green entrepreneurship, circular economy, and sustainable supply chain management. The focus is developing and implementing environmental management systems to mitigate environmental impacts and ensure regulatory compliance.
Environmental Impact Assessment
This course offers an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) overview, outlining its purpose and role in environmental management. It introduces the legal and regulatory frameworks governing EIA and the fundamental principles guiding the assessment process. Additionally, students study topics such as air quality monitoring, water quality assessment, ecological surveys, and social and cultural assessments. Some other standard courses students can explore across different master’s programs curricula include:
- Environmental Economics
- Climate change and adaptation
- Fundamentals of environmental systems
- Community-based environmental management
- Environmental auditing
- Environmental risk assessment
- Environmental communications and reporting
- Principles and Practices of Waste Management
- Environmental management and planning
- Environmental data analysis
- Environmental communication and stakeholder engagement
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The environmental management master’s online program equips students with the knowledge and skills to understand and address environmental issues from a management perspective. The curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of environmental management principles.
By the end of the program, students can develop several skills, including the ability to:
- Demonstrate understanding of environmental systems, including ecological principles, environmental processes, and the interrelationships between human activities and the environment.
- Apply knowledge of sustainability principles and practices to analyze and evaluate human activities’ environmental, social, and economic impacts and propose sustainable solutions.
- Assess and manage environmental risks and hazards by identifying, evaluating, and mitigating environmental risks associated with various activities and industries.
- Identify potential environmental impacts, evaluating their significance, and proposing appropriate mitigation measures.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret environmental data, utilizing statistical methods and modeling techniques to evaluate environmental trends, make predictions, and support decision-making.
- Engage with stakeholders and effectively communicate environmental management goals, strategies, and outcomes to various audiences, including community members, government agencies, and industry stakeholders.
- Adhere to ethical considerations and professional responsibilities associated with environmental management.
Types of Master’s Degrees Environmental Management Students Can Obtain
Students pursuing an online environmental management master’s can pursue different types of degrees depending on their specific interests and career goals. Common types include the Master of Science (MS) in Environmental Management, Master of Arts (MA) in Environmental Management, and Master of Environment Management.
Master of Science or MS in Environmental Management
This program is a research-oriented degree that emphasizes the scientific and technical aspects of environmental management. Students may participate in research projects, conduct data analysis, and engage in fieldwork to advance their knowledge of environmental science, ecology, and natural resource management.
Master of Arts or MA in Environmental Management
This degree emphasizes environmental management’s social, policy, and management aspects. Students may study environmental policy analysis, sustainability strategies, environmental economics, and stakeholder engagement.
Master’s in Environmental Management
The program is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of environmental management principles and practices. It typically integrates science, policy, and management elements, focusing on developing practical skills to address environmental challenges across various sectors.
Areas of Specialization for Environmental Management Students
Specialization in a master’s in environmental management enhances expertise in specific areas, enabling graduates to address complex environmental challenges effectively. Students deepen their knowledge and skills by focusing on specialized topics, positioning themselves for impactful careers in various sectors requiring environmental management expertise. The master’s degree in environmental management online provides students with various kinds of specializations, including:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Marine Resources Management | This specialization focuses on managing coastal sustainability, including creating new employment opportunities, natural resource management, community education on adaptation, and protecting coastlines for future generations. Graduates are equipped to address diverse challenges facing coastal environments, fostering resilience and sustainability in coastal communities. | Various roles as a Natural Resource Technician, Research Scientist, Marine resources manager, etc. |
| Conservation Planning | This specialization teaches various conservation strategies for managing landscapes, including areas designated for protection and production. Students also gain an understanding of regional biodiversity, distinguishing between biodiversity and processes that threaten its preservation. | Various roles as a Program Coordinator, Urban Forestry officer, Wildlife Removal Technician, etc. |
| Corporate Environmental Management | This specialization equips students to address the challenges encountered by corporate organizations as future sustainability and environmental professionals. Participants also gain insight into critical issues central to sustainable development debates. | Various roles as an Environmental Scientist, Environmental Geologist, Ecologist, etc. |
| Economics and Politics of the Environment | Through this concentration, students learn to develop and implement public rules and policies addressing environmental challenges, environmental resource management, and management systems. They also learn about the interactions between private and public sectors and their influence on political processes to solve environmental challenges. | Various roles as Agriculture conservation specialist, Climate change analyst, Research analyst, Environmental reporting specialist, etc. |
| Energy and Climate | This specialization covers climate change mitigation and control, exploring its implications for policymakers addressing energy usage and global climate issues. Students gain insights into energy and climate information in national reports and governance systems. | Various roles as Climate Scientist, Environmental Engineer, Renewal energy technician, etc. |
| Water Resources Management | Students understand strategies to enhance water security amidst rising demand and scarcity in this specialization. They explore solutions for addressing greater extremes, uncertainty, and fragmentation of water challenges. Utilizing institutional tools such as regulatory frameworks, incentives, and water pricing, students learn to regulate and allocate water resources more effectively. | Various roles as Human resources manager, water and wastewater technician, Project Manager, etc. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
The timeline to complete an online master’s degree in environmental management varies depending on program structure, course load, and individual circumstances. Typically, it takes 1 to 2 years of full-time study, but accelerated options can shorten this to 12 to 18 months. Programs offer flexibility in course scheduling, with some following traditional semester-based systems and others having accelerated terms or modular courses. Completing a thesis may extend the timeline due to research and writing requirements.
Accelerated Environmental Management Programs
Accelerated master’s programs in environmental management offer a quicker pathway to degree completion than traditional programs. Structured to be completed in a shorter period, they enable students to expedite their studies and enter the workforce sooner. These programs often feature intensive course structures with more courses per term or condensed schedules. Students can also earn credits for prior learning or professional experiences, including exams, portfolio assessments, or demonstrating competence in specific subject areas. Some colleges providing an accelerated online master’s in environmental management include Oregon State University[2] and Indiana University Bloomington[3].
Requirements for Getting into an Online Master’s in Environmental Management Program
An online master’s in environmental management admission requirements could vary depending on the institution and specific program one intends to pursue. While conditions may differ from school to school, some standard criteria one may encounter include:
- Fees and application form
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a related field, such as environmental science, ecology, biology, sustainability, and more
- Minimum GPA requirement of around 2.5 or more
- Relevant work experience, including internships, professional experience, or research projects
- Two or three letters of recommendation from professional or academic references
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Curriculum vitae
- Some schools may request writing samples
- English Language proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS
No GRE Online Master’s in Environmental Management Programs
Students looking for an online master’s degree in environmental management can find many colleges that do not require the Graduate Record Examination score and find several programs that do not require GRE marks as an admission requirement. Many schools have recognized students’ needs and adapted their admissions processes according to them, thereby removing the criteria of the GRE. Some programs have also waived off the GRE requirement altogether, while others consider different factors such as GPA, letters of recommendation, and work experience instead of those scores. Some institutions providing an online master’s in environmental management no GRE include the University of Denver[4], Tuskegee University[5], and Duke University- Nicholas School of the Environment[6].
How to Ensure an Online Master’s in Environmental Management Program Is Accredited
Accreditation assures students that a program meets quality standards set by accrediting bodies. While specific accreditation for master’s in environmental management programs may vary, institutions often seek regional or specialized accreditation. Accreditation ensures curriculum rigor, faculty expertise, and opportunities for financial aid. There are a few national accreditation associations along with six regional associations, which are:
- 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 Master’s Students
Free online courses provide valuable insights into environmental management, allowing students to explore the field before committing to a formal master’s program or pursuing professional development. While these courses enrich understanding, they don’t substitute for the comprehensive education and credentials needed for a career. Aspiring professionals should consider accredited master’s programs and additional certifications for a fulfilling career in environmental management. Here are a few free environmental management courses that students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Environment & Sustainability[7] | This free course teaches about various ecology fundamentals and looks at Earth as a dynamic integrated system. Learners understand topics including the geosphere, atmosphere and oceans, respiration and photosynthesis, carbon and nitrogen cycles, etc. | MIT OpenCourseWare |
| Global Environmental Management[8] | The free course covers various global trends influencing the environment and explores different management approaches and systems used worldwide. Learners also acquire knowledge of environmental technologies designed for sustainable soil management, integrated water resources management, groundwater protection methods, and more. | Coursera |
| Climate Change[9] | This free course teaches individuals to practice and communicate about climate change. Participants learn to explain climate science fundamentals to diverse audiences, evaluate scientific evidence on global warming and climate change, and effectively communicate climate change issues within their regions. | edX |
Ways to Pay for an Online Master’s in Environmental Management Degree
As tuition fees keep increasing yearly, students find it difficult to enroll in online master’s programs in environmental management. Financial barriers often hinder access to higher education. However, exploring alternative payment strategies and seeking assistance from financial aid offices can help alleviate these challenges and make education more accessible to aspiring students. Here are a few ways students can fund their programs:
Scholarships offer financial aid to students based on academic achievements, financial need, or unique talents. They alleviate the burden of tuition fees, enabling access to education for diverse backgrounds. Scholarships foster academic excellence, encourage talent development, and empower individuals to pursue their aspirations without financial constraints, shaping future leaders and innovators.
Grants provide financial assistance for education, typically based on financial need or specific criteria such as academic performance or field of study. Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment, easing the financial burden for students and increasing access to higher education, fostering academic success and career opportunities.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships offer graduate students financial support in exchange for part-time work within their academic department. These positions often involve teaching, research, or administrative duties. Besides providing financial aid, assistantships offer valuable professional development, practical experience, and networking opportunities, enhancing students’ skills and preparing them for future careers in academia or industry.
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is crucial for US students seeking financial assistance for higher education. It determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Scholarships for Online Master’s in Environmental Management Degree Students
Scholarships for a Master’s in Environmental Management provide crucial financial support, enabling students to pursue advanced studies in sustainability and conservation. These scholarships reduce financial barriers, allowing students to focus on their studies and research, cultivate expertise, and become leaders in environmental stewardship, driving positive societal change. Here are a few online master’s in environmental management scholarships that prospective students can explore:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eckenfelder Scholarship[10] | Applicants for this scholarship must submit a completed application, resume, essay, recommendations, and official transcripts. Permanent residents of the United States enrolled in accredited graduate programs are eligible to apply. | $5,000 | May annually |
| NEHA/AAS Scholarships[11] | Applicants for this scholarship must complete an online application, provide unofficial academic transcripts, and submit one faculty letter of recommendation. It encourages individuals to pursue studies in environmental health and engage in related roles to address pressing environmental challenges. | $2,650 | February annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Online Master’s in Environmental Management Degree
Graduates with a Master’s in Environmental Management unlock diverse career opportunities across sectors, from government and non-profits to consulting and corporate sustainability. Salaries vary depending on industry, location, and experience but generally reflect competitive compensation with ample room for growth and advancement. Some of the professional roles graduates can expect after graduating with an online master’s degree in environmental management include:
- Communication and Public Awareness Officer
- Conservation Officer
- Conservation Scientist
- Eco-tourism Manager
- Environment Consultant
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Scientist
- Hydrologist
- Natural Resource Manager
- Pollution Control Manager
- Project Manager
- Restoration Ecologist
- Sustainability Consultant
- Wildlife Manager
Some of these professions are highlighted below:
| 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. | $76,530 | 5% (fast as average) | Environmental scientists and specialists determine various data collection methods for research investigations, surveys, and projects. They also collect and compile environmental data from samples of soil, food, water, air, and other materials for scientific analysis. |
| Conservation Scientists and Foresters[12] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, management, and physical stamina skills. | $63,750 | 5% (as fast as average) | Conservation scientists and foresters develop plans for managing forest resources and lands, overseeing forest regeneration and cleared areas. They collaborate with private landowners, farmers, governments, and others to enhance land quality and harvest timber with minimal environmental impact. |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians[13] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills. | $47,370 | 6% (as fast as average) | Environmental science and protection technicians use microscopes to analyze samples for pollutants or other contaminants and discuss the results with clients. They also verify compliance with various regulations, helping to prevent pollution. |
| Hydrologists[14] | Analytical, critical thinking, communication, interpersonal, and physical stamina skills. | $84,030 | 0% (little or no change) | Hydrologists typically measure properties of water bodies, such as stream flow and volume. They also collect soil and water samples to test for various properties, including pollution levels and pH. Additionally, they research multiple methods to minimize challenges posed by erosion, pollution, and sedimentation on the environment. |
| Geoscientists[15] | Communication, critical thinking, outdoor, physical stamina, and problem-solving skills. | $83,680 | 5% (as fast as average) | Geoscientists conduct laboratory tests to analyze field samples, create geological charts and maps, and prepare written reports. They present their findings to various audiences, including colleagues and clients, and search for gas and oil deposits suitable for commercial extraction. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Master’s in Environmental Management Graduates
Certifications and licensing for online master’s students in environmental management can significantly enhance career prospects by validating their expertise and skills. Though not mandatory in the U.S., these credentials improve job opportunities, credibility, and earning potential, demonstrating a commitment to professional standards and qualifying students for specialized roles.
Here are a few professional certifications that an online master’s in environmental management can pursue:
Certified Environmental and Safety Compliance Officer[16]
Professionals who obtain this certification understand regulations and laws surrounding air and wastewater pollution, hazardous and solid wastes, and more. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school and relevant work experience in environmental or safety responsibilities within industry, military, or consultancy can apply for this certification.
Registered Environmental Manager [17]
The Registered Environmental Manager (REM) certification, offered by the National Registry of Environmental Professionals, validates individuals as proficient environmental experts, fostering career growth and industry recognition. It signifies mastery in specialized fields, ensuring professionals uphold ethical standards and cultivate harmonious relationships with the environment, promoting sustainability and innovation.
Additional Resources for Online Master’s in Environmental Management Graduates
While pursuing an online Master’s degree in environmental management enhances career prospects, understanding additional resources is vital for students’ success. These resources include professional organizations, networking opportunities, internships, research journals, and certification programs. Utilizing these tools can provide valuable industry connections, practical experience, and up-to-date knowledge, further boosting career advancement and expertise in the field. Here are a few organizations master’s degree in environmental management online students can explore:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| The Nature Conservancy | This organization leverages its influence to strengthen policies and markets supporting renewable energy, reducing emissions, and storing carbon to avoid annual 3 billion metric tons of CO2 emissions. They also aim to protect communities from extreme rainfall, severe wildfires, sea level rise, and storm surges. |
| Office of Environmental Management- Department of Energy | The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management website offers various resources, including job listings, veterans’ recruitment, graduate fellowship programs, Savannah River Environmental Sciences Field Stations, internships, and more. They provide multiple pathway programs, such as developmental and Presidential Management Fellows. |
| Natural Resources Defense Council | Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is one of the oldest nonprofit organizations dedicated to safeguarding the Earth, its flora, fauna, and human inhabitants. Governed by a team of attorneys and law students, NRDC boasts a diverse membership encompassing scientists, students, businesses, and individuals from various backgrounds. |
| 1% for the Planet | 1% for the Planet facilitates partnerships between businesses and approved environmental organizations to forge impactful collaborations, maximizing the influence of their members. Their focus extends to developing climate solutions encompassing activism, alternative transportation, fossil fuel reduction, energy efficiency, adult education, etc. |
| American Forests | American Forests is dedicated to fostering resilient and healthy forests across a spectrum ranging from expansive natural landscapes to urban environments, delivering crucial benefits for people, water sources, wildlife, and climate stability. They pursue this mission through forestry innovation, community mobilization, and partnerships tailored to specific locations, focusing on forest restoration and conservation. |
FAQs About Online Master’s in Environmental Management Degree Programs
Why should you do a master’s in environmental management degree online?
An online master’s degree in environmental management allows students to select from various schools and programs that might not be accessible locally. Online education provides a flexible curriculum accommodating individuals with diverse personal or professional obligations. Enrollees in these programs also have the chance to network with peers and educators worldwide.
What education does one need to be an environmental management professional?
How much does an online degree in environmental management cost?
What can you do with an online master’s environmental management degree?
Is an online master in environmental management worth it?
How much do environmental management graduates earn?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Environmental Scientists and Specialists
Indiana University Bloomington
Duke University- Nicholas School of the Environment
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