10 Best Value Online Environmental Engineering Degree Options

If you have a curious mind, are looking to be challenged and are interested in helping our planet, then consider an online environmental engineering degree.

Environmental engineers seek ways to improve the way mankind interacts with mother nature. They do so by solving a wide variety of problems. For example, someone in this field may find better ways for a community to recycle. Another may develop a new system to bring modern infrastructure to a growing population.

For this reason, the world we live in is happier and our society lives healthier because of environmental engineers.

Because advances in distance learning have been made, it’s become easier to pursue environmental engineering degree programs from the comfort of home.

Article Navigation: Environmental Engineering Scope | Which Degree is Best for Environmental Engineering? | Accreditation | Master’s Requirements | 11 Best Value Online Master’s in Environmental Engineering | Doctorate Requirements | Top Online Doctoral Degrees in Environmental Engineering | How to Choose a Program | Financial Aid | What Can You Do With an Environmental Engineering Degree? | FAQs | Conclusion

Environmental Engineering Scope

Environmental engineers use skills in communication, math, soils, biology and chemistry. This specialty finds answers to our world’s problems as they relate to the environment. We see this in many areas such as public health, air pollution, and waste disposal.

Environmental Engineer vs Civil Engineer

A civil engineer works on projects that help with infrastructure. The focus of their work and a civil engineering degree is on the construction and operation of systems. Their projects are those we use on a daily basis such as bridges, dams, buildings, and roads. They fix issues in transportation, construction, and structures. On the other hand, environmental engineers focus more on how those projects impact the environment. Consequently, environmental and civil engineers solve some problems that overlap. Both may focus on natural hazards, water resources, and climate change.

Which Degree is Best for Environmental Engineering?

An online environmental engineering bachelor degree is the gold standard for those who desire to become an environmental engineer, an environmental manager, or another career in this field.

A degree in civil, chemical, or general engineering may also be a gateway into environmental engineering. A master’s degree is not required but it is beneficial.

Environmental Engineering vs Environmental Science Degrees

Environmental engineering and environmental science degrees are related but different. Environmental science degree programs and profession focus on understanding how and why events in the natural world happen.

Conversely, environmental engineering focuses on the solutions. For this reason, the research performed by an environmental scientist compliments the work of an environmental engineer.

For example, thanks to environmental science we recognize the causes of climate change, i.e. the burning of fossil fuels. This information then allows an environmental engineer to create new technologies leading to jobs in sustainable energy.

Accreditation of Online Environmental Engineering Degree Programs

Some of the best environmental engineering colleges in the world now offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees online.

However, you will need to verify your chosen degree holds proper accreditation. The Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET is the most known entity that accredits environmental engineering bachelor degrees.

The Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) from ABET accredits both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Accreditation is vital because it shows that what you learned meets an approved set of national standards.

Colleges with environmental engineering programs accredited by the ABET meet the following standards:

• Student performance evaluation.
• Educational objectives that mirror the program’s mission.
• Student outcomes that match the institution’s objectives.
• Regular program assessment to foster improvement.
• A curriculum that covers core concepts like math, computer design, and use of engineering tools.
• The ability of faculty to teach essential concepts.
• The quality of facilities available to students.
• Sufficient resources to keep faculty and bring in more students.

Online Master’s in Environmental Engineering Degree Requirements

Master's level environmental engineering online programs are ideal for recent graduates in an engineering discipline. These programs are also great for working professionals who wish to boost their career. Most programs take 2-4 semesters to complete. The focus of each institution will vary. However, most online environmental engineering degree programs emphasize research, projects, and preparing students for real world issues.

A BS degree in environmental engineering or other engineering discipline is usually required for admission. Generally students need between a 2.75 to 3.0 undergrad GPA to apply. If GRE scores are required, then many schools ask for a minimum score of 150 in vocabulary, quantitative, and writing.

Each university has its own specializations to choose from including:

• Air Pollution and Hydrogeology
• Coastal Ecosystem Dynamics
• Water Resources Engineering

Students can expect to take classes in many subcategories of environmental engineering or even take courses in other areas such as civil engineering. Some examples include:

• Earth Retaining Walls / Slope Stability
• Geometric Design of Transportation Facilities
• Seepage of Soils
• and much more!

Top 11 Online Master’s in Environmental Engineering Under $40,000

There are many online master’s environmental engineering programs. Here is a list of online master’s in environmental engineering that cost less than $40,000. The environmental engineering degree requirements for these programs vary with each institution.

1. University of Florida

   Degree Name: Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering Sciences
   Student Fees In-State Total: $15,041.40

   This program features coursework in Air Resources, Ecological Systems, Engineering Education Collaborative, Environmental Nanotechnology, and Water Systems. It is Ideal for working professionals.

   Applicants need a BS degree in an engineering discipline from an ABET accredited university. A 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA from the final 60 hours of undergrad is required.

   The online application asks for official transcripts, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation. Prospective students need proof of at least two semesters of calculus, biology, physics, and chemistry, and computer competency background.

   International students must show GRE scores and English Language Proficiency. They need a TOEFL score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.

   The program is $15041 and offers 30 credit hours. The accreditation is from Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

   Find Out More

    

2. University of Florida

   Degree Name: Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Sciences
   Student Fees In-State Total: $15041.40

   The curriculum for this program is the same as the ME degree, except that a final exam isn’t required.

   Candidates need a BS degree in an engineering discipline from an ABET accredited university. A 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA from the final 60 hours of undergrad is required.

   The online application asks for official transcripts, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation. Students need at least two semesters of calculus, biology, physics, and chemistry, and computer competency background

   International students must show GRE scores and English Language Proficiency. They need a TOEFL score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.

   The program is $15041 and offers 30 credit hours. The accreditation is from Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

   Find Out More

    

3. North Carolina State University at Raleigh

   Degree Name: Master of Environmental Engineering
   Student Fees In-State Total: $15,106.80

   This is designed for students who are recent graduates of an engineering discipline. The program offers a wide variety of online environmental engineering courses such as: Principles of Air Quality Engineering, and Engineering Hydrology. Their mission is to develop and train students to be future professionals.

   In order to apply, a candidate needs a BS degree in civil or environmental engineering or equivalent from an accredited school. They need a 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA.

   GRE scores are required for international students, non engineering undergraduate degrees, or for students who don’t hold an ABET accredited engineering degree.

   The program costs $15107. The coursework spans 30 credit hours that must be completed within 6 years of initial enrollment. This master’s is Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) accredited.

   Find Out More

    

4. Old Dominion University

   Degree Name: Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
   Student Fees In-State Total: $16,326

   This is the 75th ranked master environmental engineering degree programs in 2023 by U.S. News & World Report. Students receive core engineering courses, one math/statistics course, and a wide selection of others based on interest in areas like groundwater, clean energy, steel structure begin, and hydraulic engineering. Excellent for part-time or full-time students. No thesis is required.

   Applicants must have a BS degree in civil or environmental engineering or equivalent from an accredited school. GRE scores are required for international students, non engineering undergraduate degrees, or for students who don’t hold an ABET accredited engineering degree.

   It costs $16326, consists of 30 credit hours and is ABET accredited.

   Find Out More

    

5. California State University-Fullerton

   Degree Name: Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
   Student Fees In-State Total: $17,647.12

   This program was voted the #1 Best Online College in California (California Online Colleges 2021) and #1 Online Master’s in Engineering Program in the US by a non PhD-granting school (US. News and World Report 2022). There is a cohort model with individual and group projects available.

   Applicants need a BS degree (of any major) from an accredited university. Engineering applicants need a 2.5 cumulative GPA. Non-engineering for non-engineering applicants need a 3.0 GPA.

   They must be in good standing from the most recent college attended. Proof of English Proficiency for applicants from non-English speaking countries is required. They need either a TOEFL score of 80, an IELTS score of 6.5, or a PTE score of 58.

   Official transcripts are required. GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and resumes are optional.

   The program costs $17647. It takes 2 years to complete (four semesters and one summer session). Multiple engineering disciplines including Civil and Electrical engineering at CSFU are ABET accredited.

   Find Out More

    

6. The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

   Degree Name: Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
   Student Fees In-State Total: $22,500

   Firstly, this program offers a coursework-only pathway that doesn’t include a comprehensive exam. Secondly, students will have an option for Water Resources Engineering as a concentration.

   BS degree in an engineering discipline from a US university or international equivalent is required to apply.  A 2.7 cumulative GPA from undergrad or a 3.0 during senior year is required. Proof of English Proficiency for applicants from non-English speaking countries is needed. They must have a TOEFL 80 score or IELTS 6.5 score. International students must have a “B” average from their respective institution. Candidates must also show official transcripts. GRE scores are required for international students and students from non-ABET accredited undergraduate programs.

   The program costs $22500 and is 30 credit hours in length. This is the equivalent of two semesters. The undergrad department of Civil and Environmental Engineering is ABET accredited.

   Find Out More

    

7. University of New Haven

   Degree Name: Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
   Student Fees In-State Total: $28,650

   This MS offers small class-sizes with modern technology for students. They will have access to one of the best career development centers in the nation. Multiple program options available including Environmental Law and Legislation as well as Biological Treatment of Aqueous Wastes. As a matter of fact, the program is STEM-designated by the Department of Homeland Security.

   Applicants need two academic or professional letters of recommendation. Also required are a statement of purpose, current resume, and official transcripts that explain the grading system of their school. Additionally, students must show proof of their bachelor’s degree.

   The program costs $28650. It spans six terms that are seven weeks long. Therefore, the entire program is 42 weeks long. There are six engineering undergrad programs at University of New Haven that are ABET accredited.

   Find Out More

8. Missouri University of Science and Technology

   Degree Name: Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
   Student Fees In-State Total: $36,000

   This program was voted as one of the best by U.S. News and World Report in 2023. Great for recent graduates or those already working in the field. Additionally, the geoenvironmental engineering and mine reclamation certificate programs are renowned.

   Applicants need a BS degree with an engineering discipline from an accredited school. However, non-civil engineering degrees may be required to take additional online environmental engineering courses. Non-engineering degrees will also need to take additional math, science, and engineering courses. They have a minimum GPA of 3.0 from undergrad degree. They need minimum GRE scores of 150 for vocabulary, quantitative, and writing. Applicants from non-English speaking countries must submit Proof of English Proficiency. They need a TOEFL score of 80 or IELTS score 6.5. The online application asks for three references, a statement of purpose, a resume, as well as transcripts.

   The program costs $36000. It is 30 credit hours in length and consequently takes 2 to 3 years to complete on average. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits this program.

   Find Out More

    

9. University of Wisconsin-Madison

   Degree Name: Master of Engineering in Civil & Environmental Engineering / Environmental Engineering
   Student Fees In-State Total: $39,000

   Students will receive a broad foundation of multiple disciplines, including leadership, communication and project management. This online master’s environmental engineering is ideal for recent graduates in engineering or those currently in the field who want to propel their career. Additionally, classes are interactive.

   Applicants need a BS degree in engineering from an accredited school or a BS in environmental science with a base in calculus, physics, and chemistry. They must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 during the last 60 credits of undergrad degree. However, candidates from non-English speaking countries must show proof of English Proficiency. The application asks for three references, a statement of purpose, a resume, as well as transcripts.

   The program costs $39000 and is 30 credit hours in length. This takes generally 2 to 3 years to complete on average. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits this program.

   Find Out More

    

10. University of Wisconsin-Madison

    Degree Name: Master of Engineering in Sustainable Systems Engineering
    Student Fees In-State Total: $39,000

    This program was named one of the top online grad engineering programs by U.S. News and World Report in 2021. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of policy, science, engineering, as well as the economic side of sustainability issues. This program is project-based and emphasizes clean energy principles. It’s geared for working engineers who are looking to advance in their career or people who wish to enter the renewable energy or energy efficiency job sector.

    Applicants need a BS degree in engineering from an ABET (or equivalent) accredited school. A minimum GPA of 3.0 during the last 60 credits of undergrad degree is required.

    Candidates from non-English speaking countries must show proof of English Proficiency.International students must hold a degree that is similar to an US diploma. GRE scores are not required but recommended.

    The application asks for three references, a statement of purpose, a resume, as well as transcripts.

    The program costs $39000. It is 30 credit hours in length and subsequently takes 2 to 3 years to complete on average. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits this program.

    Find Out More

     

11. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

    Degree Name: Master of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering
    Student Fees In-State Total: $39,024

    This online master’s environmental engineering 90 credit program splits between coursework, research, and the final dissertation. The Institute for Energy Studies (IES) offers this program. It combines research and practice. Additionally, this program has advanced facilities. It offers many exciting research opportunities through the Energy & Environmental Research Center. Students also will have the flexibility to choose topics that truly interest them.

    The U.S. News and World Report ranks the Online M.S. Civil Engineering program #1 in the nation. Civil Engineering students get to choose a specialization such as environmental engineering. There are a wide number of courses to choose from including transportation, railroad, and structures. The MS in Environmental Engineering offers core engineering courses. Some include biology, chemistry, and water quality.

    Applicants need a BS degree or equivalent from an accredited university either in the US or a recognized one abroad. They must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or comparable if from abroad from the final two years of a 4-year program or 3 years of a 5-year program. GRE scores are optional but recommended. They need to present three recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, a resume and a current transcript. Applicants from non-English speaking countries must also show proof of English Proficiency.

    The program costs $39024. It requires 36 credit hours. Additionally, an MS in Civil Engineering requires a thesis. It takes 18 to 24 months to complete. However, the MS in Environmental Engineering doesn’t require a thesis and takes 11 to 24 months to finish.

    ABET accredits the undergrad department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

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Online Doctorate in Environmental Engineering Degree Requirements

It’s possible to also earn a Doctor in Philosophy (Ph.D) in Environmental Engineering completely online. An online doctoral program is ideal for someone who is interested in building on what they have learned with their undergrad and master’s degrees. A Ph.D student will become more familiar with various areas. These include areas such as chemistry, geology, and a multitude of other sciences. Many students who pursue a PhD decide to continue researching a topic they’re passionate about. A Ph.D could also lead them to pursue a future role as an educator. Programs can take up to seven years to complete. Afterwards, a graduate will become an expert in investigation. Additionally, they will have advanced their knowledge of numerous disciplines that relate to environmental engineering. Generally a student will choose a research topic that interests them.

Generally a PhD program for environmental engineering requires candidates to either possess a MS in Environmental Engineering or a related field from an ABET accredited institution with minimum 3.0 GPA. Certain programs may require the GRE. Letters of recommendation might also be obligatory.

Environmental engineering degree requirements for those seeking a doctorate vary with each institution. Typically a student must complete all coursework and receive the required amount of credits. They will have to pass a qualifying exam, a research proposal exam, pass the defense of their dissertation, while also maintaining a minimum GPA. Some schools do require a certain number of visits where the student will do a presentation in person.

Students will receive credits for the topic that they research for their thesis. In general, students can expect to take such standard courses like:

• Chemical Kinetics in Environmental Engineering
• Biometry
• Sustainable Water Resource Engineering
• Solid Waste Systems
• Aquatic Ecology

The Best Online Doctoral Degrees in Environmental Engineering

1. University of North Dakota

   Degree Name: Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Engineering
   Student Fees In-State Total: $47,340

   For admission, a student must meet the School of Graduate Studies’ minimum admission standards. This includes a B.S. degree in engineering from a four-year college of college accredited by ABET or an M.S. degree in engineering. Furthermore, they must pass the Graduate Record Examination “GRE” General Test if their undergrad wasn’t from an ABET accredited program.

   Applicants need a minimum GPA of 3.0. They must show proof of English proficiency. This can be a bachelor’s degree from a school where English is the primary language. Otherwise, it can be an IELTS score of 6, a TOEFL score of 76, or completion of an intensive English Language Service (ELS) 112 level course.

   The program costs $47,340 and takes up to seven years to complete. It has a Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accreditation.

   Find Out More

How to Choose an Online Environmental Science Degree

Proper accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting a program. However, there are other factors to consider to help narrow your online environmental engineering degree search.

Cost

Firstly, consider the price of tuition of an online degree in environmental engineering. Tuition will vary depending on the institution. An online environmental engineering bachelor degree on average costs $8,645 but can be as high as $51,958. An online master's degree tuition can range from $14,000 to $60,000+ depending on the school. Online doctorate degree tuition ranges from $40,000 to $100,000 to complete.

Secondly, it’s important to understand the complete cost of attendance for each program. Students must be aware of other expenses that will be accrued such as health insurance or textbooks. Another benefit of distance learning is that schools wave housing fees, parking permits, and meal plans.

Another key point to consider is the way a student pays for an online environmental engineering degree. Some colleges may bill a student the entire sum. Whereas, others may offer a monthly payment plan. However, scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options may be available.

Format & Location

Consider the online program format format when researching colleges with environmental engineering. Are classes asynchronous or must you attend a specific time? Are there any components that are in-person? Will there be many exams or will the courses be more project-based?

Asynchronous learning offers a student a more flexible schedule. Most lectures will be pre recorded. If you are working or have a busy schedule with limited free time, then this may be a beneficial learning format. It is also effective for students who want more time to review the material.

If a student needs help focusing, then they would benefit with live (synchronous) instruction. As a matter of fact, live instruction offers more collaboration, more direct contact with the instructor, and a greater sense of community with other students.

The location of the school matters if the online environmental engineering course requires students to either attend a campus workshop or do in-person presentations.

Student Services

Finally, when choosing an environmental engineer degree online, selecting a school with adequate student support services is essential. These are resources to assist a student in many different facets of their school experience. These include services like career counselors, school psychologists, mentorship, or peer tutors. Some schools even offer internship programs and job placement support services!

Distance learners have many resources at their fingertips such as career counselors, tutors, and psychological services. Additionally, many schools provide virtual  workshops and seminars. Even so, some environmental engineering online degree students may face certain challenges with remote learning. For this reason, it’s worth choosing a program with more support services.

Financial Aid for an Online Environmental Engineering Degree

Students who are taking environmental engineering courses, either at the undergrad or graduate level, will have various forms of financial aid opportunities available. The best way to find which funding aid programs are available for each school is to inquire on their website. Here are some general forms of financial aid:

• Government Grants

  The US Department of Education offers multiple forms of funding to help students at the university level. The most notable resource is the Federal Pell Grant. Grants are unique. Students generally do not need to pay them back.

• Scholarships

  Scholarships are another form of aid. Either the university or a private organization award scholarships. Like grants, students typically don’t need to pay them back. Most scholarships have deadlines and require recipients to maintain a certain level of academic success.

• Loans

  The Federal Direct Loan Program provides financial assistance with a lower than average interest rate available via a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There are deadlines in certain states and universities. Additionally, some schools may offer short-term loans for students who need emergency funding. Each state also provides their own loan programs to help students ease the burden of paying for tuition. If you take out loans, it is important to understand the loan repayment process.

• Student Employment

  Upon completion of your FAFSA, qualified students will receive an offer for tuition aid from the Federal Government which also includes an invitation to the Federal Work-Study program. Students will then be able to work and receive consistent income while also taking classes. The work opportunities vary with each institution but this opportunity could be beneficial for those seeking an online degree in environmental engineering.

• Tuition Waivers / Exemptions

  Each state may provide exemptions for students who meet specific criteria. For example, some common exemptions are for active military personnel, veterans, surviving spouses, the child of a veteran, or Native Americans.

• Graduate Fellowships

  Students who are getting their online master’s or doctorate in environmental engineering may be eligible for a fellowship from their university. Similar to a scholarship, a fellowship is a financial reward to students who meet the specific criteria. A particular organization either affiliated or unaffiliated with the student’s school typically sponsor these grants. The application process tends to be competitive and rigorous.

• Graduate Assistantships

  Those interested in an environmental engineering master’s degree may also benefit from an assistantship. An assistantship is when a university hires a student to either teach or conduct research in their given discipline.

What Can You Do With an Environmental Engineering Degree?

With an online environmental engineering degree, graduates will find themselves with no shortage of employment opportunities. Also, the employment rate in the United States (according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics) for environmental engineers is projected to grow by 4% over the next ten years. In short, the environmental engineering scope for employment is abundant.

People who possess an environmental engineer degree online will be able to integrate what they learned into the real world. They may choose to work in sustainability, soils, wastewater treatment, or solid waste handling. For example, here are some of the interesting careers for people with degrees in environmental engineering:

• Water Project Manager – $74,000 median per year
• Green Building Engineer – $76,000-$84,000 median per year
• Environmental Engineer Consultant – $87,000 median per year
• Senior Environmental Engineer – $93,000 median per year
• Environmental Health and Safety Director – $103,000 median per year

Entry-Level Environmental Engineering Jobs

Most entry-level jobs in this field don’t require an environmental engineering master’s degree. However, many students who have completed their undergraduate studies may opt to advance their studies. With a master’s degree in environmental engineering, a graduate may work as an instructor or conduct research at the institution where they studied.

Environmental Engineering License

If a students completes an environmental engineering online degree (either an undergraduate or master’s), then a student may also decide to pursue their Professional Engineer’s (PE) license. They must pass an exam for their discipline (environmental engineering) administered by the National Council of Examiners for Entering and Surveying (NCEES). A PE license establishes that whoever holds this document is an expert in their given field. This can lead to the highest paying environmental engineering jobs. Please note that a license is valid only in the state where it was issued. If a licensed engineer would like to be licensed in other jurisdictions, then they may use the NCEES Records program to apply for comity licensure.

FAQs

Is an environmental engineering degree worth it?

Yes it is! An environmental engineering online degree will be rigorous at times and it is a large financial investment, however this is one of the most rewarding fields of study. Helping humans and our planet thrive together is a very fulfilling profession. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that the median annual salary of an environmental engineer is $96,820. The financial rewards, as well as a projected 4% job employment growth over the next ten years makes environmental engineering courses a worthy investment.

Can engineering degrees be done online?

An accredited online degree in environmental engineering is more accessible thanks to a higher demand in distance learning programs. For this reason, it’s easier to receive an online master's in environmental engineering.

How long does it take to get a degree in environmental engineering?

On average, a full-time environmental engineering bachelor’s degree online takes four years to complete. This is on par with the majority of undergrad degrees in the United States. However, an environmental engineering master’s degree has a different timeline for completion. Most master’s degrees require about 30 credit hours which equates to 2-4 semesters of work.

Is there a demand for environmental engineers?

The incentives are strong incentives. In short, people who make this their future career won’t regret it. Protecting ecosystems and improvement of human quality of life is a global issue. Increased world population will only make this more important. Because of this, the demand for skilled environmental engineers is high. A 4% growth projection the next ten years and a median annual salary of $96,820 for this role are indicators that there is high demand for environmental engineers.

Apply to an Online Environmental Engineering Degree Program Today!

When thinking about an environmental engineering degree online consider these questions: Am I passionate about our planet? Am I concerned about the quality of life of those around me? Do I want to study something that I care about and that pushes me to be better? If you answered “yes” to these questions then you’re saying yes to making a positive difference to our world.

Some of the best environmental engineering colleges in the world are at your fingertips. An accredited online environmental engineering degree will certainly bring you closer to that dream! Enroll in a program today!