Best Online Master’s in Environmental Management Degree Programs of 2024

The green sector, defined by public and private initiatives to reduce pollution and enhance energy efficiency, is a rapidly growing industry. An online master’s in environmental management prepares graduates for a leadership position within this expanding field. This interdisciplinary curriculum includes environmental policy, planning, and geographic information systems courses.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), environmental scientists and specialists earn an annual salary of $76,480. While a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field will qualify individuals for entry-level positions, a master’s degree will open doors for career advancement and higher earning potential.

Online master’s programs in environmental management require an average of 36 credit hours (12 classes), including a three-credit internship or comprehensive project. Most participants can graduate within two years if they attend school full-time.

Choose your area of study

Master’s in environmental management degrees are typically offered as a Master of Science (MS), which prioritizes research and analysis and prepares graduates for further scientific study or doctoral work. This degree may also be available as a Master of Business Administration (MBA), which typically covers a wide range of business-related topics.

Environmental management is a broad field, so participants should choose a specific area of study on which to focus their coursework. Common concentration options include environmental policy, natural resource management, and environmental analytics. While core topics are similar across institutions, not every school offers the same specializations and electives. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match those career goals.

Research schools and programs

You should only consider institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.

Ideally, your master’s in environmental management program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This programmatic accrediting organization has particularly high standards for business education.

After confirming a school’s accreditation status, compare other aspects between programs.

• How does the program incorporate practical application? Most online master’s in environmental management programs include a capstone assignment, usually as an internship or hands-on project. Consider how each program supports you in this endeavor; will you receive internship placement assistance or a dedicated project advisor?
• Can online students access additional resources? Online students should receive a similar experience as traditional students. Look for schools that invest in building an online community with orientations and supportive measures for remote learners. Online students should have access to mental health counseling, tutoring, tech support, military student aid, disability services, and library databases.

To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.

Prepare for tests and applications

Application requirements vary by school and program, so you should research each option that interests you. Some have specific eligibility requirements, such as prerequisite coursework, a minimum undergraduate GPA, significant field experience, and even written sponsorship from a current employer.

Applicants must have an undergraduate degree in a related field from an accredited institution. Most programs do not mandate standardized test scores (i.e., GRE or GMAT), though you will likely need to prepare transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Be mindful of application deadlines, as these materials can take several weeks to organize.

Before submitting an application, always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.

Select your program

Before deciding where you will apply to, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Are you only interested in 100% online programs, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a few in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer?

Select programs that best meet your professional interests and personal needs based on your research. For example, working adults may decide only to apply to asynchronous programs. You might prioritize those programs that fit within your budget or provide the best accommodations for online students. Some programs are very competitive, so you may want to apply to a few to increase your chances of acceptance.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

All master’s students should first submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal assistance. From there, share your academic goals with your employer. Some organizations provide tuition assistance to their employees, especially if you commit to contributing your acquired knowledge and skills to the company.

Then, contact your chosen school’s advisor and financial aid office. These individuals can identify transfer credits, scholarships, or other ways for you to save money on tuition.