Online Earth and Environmental Sciences Degrees
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Earth and Environmental Sciences Overview
Study environmental science, technology, research and policy.
The University of West Florida’s online earth and environmental sciences degrees will prepare you for careers in this growing industry. Each environmental science program offers substantial opportunities to choose your electives or specialty, plus real-time interaction with knowledgeable faculty. Graduates with an environmental science degree work in law, education, research facilities and in the field.
Ideal for working professionals as well as those seeking geographic information science careers, the GIS Certificate program includes practice using GIS technologies, data analysis and archaeological tools. You will also gain experience through a directed study or an internship.
For career advancement in GIS, the master’s in environmental science offers coursework in soil science, dendrochronology (dating key events via tree rings), meteorology/climatology, human-environment interactions and environmental planning, policy and politics.
UWF’s master’s in GIS administration offers additional knowledge of human resources, management and government, which is ideal for GIS leadership positions. The GIS administration program was ranked in the Best Online Master’s Geographic Information Systems by Best College Reviews.
Online Earth and Environmental Sciences Degrees
Master's
Environmental Science, M.S.
- Design your own studies after examining published environmental science research
- Pursue employment opportunities in the public and private sectors
Bachelor's
Maritime Studies, B.A.
- Enhance your maritime knowledge with studies in economics, public administration, art, geography and leisure
- Tailor our online maritime studies degree program to your individual interests
Earth and Environmental Sciences Careers
Employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 8 percent through 2028, due to public interest in the hazards facing the environment, as well as increasing demands placed on the environment by population growth. Business, government and science will experience the largest growth. GIS degrees and certificates will lead to greater salaries in environmental science careers.
*Earth and environmental sciences career outlook information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Why You Should Pursue an Online Earth and Environmental Sciences Degree
Advancement
Move forward in your career path.
Versatility
Direct your program toward your own interests.
Rigor
Apply empirical perspectives and active learning while guided by expert faculty.
Accreditation & Accolades
The University of West Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees. The University of West Florida also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of The University of West Florida may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling 404.679.4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org/).
UWF Online is approved by the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements. The voluntary agreement among member states and U.S. territories establishes comparable national standards for interstate offerings of postsecondary distance-education courses and programs. It is intended to make it easier for students to take online courses offered by postsecondary institutions based in other states.
Frequently Asked Questions
To begin a certificate program, interested students need to fill out either a graduate or undergraduate non-degree seeking application. Once accepted as a non-degree seeking student, students should speak to an advisor about course availability and scheduling. Then, complete the online Graduate or Undergraduate Certificate Declaration Form on MyUWF. Current UWF students who would like to pursue a certificate should speak to their advisor.
To begin a degree program, you first need to submit an application for undergraduate or graduate admission (plus a $30 application fee) and be accepted for admission to the University of West Florida. Some programs require a minimum GPA in all previous coursework. Depending on the program, you might also:
- Submit official transcripts from all regionally accredited institutions previously attended
- Submit GRE, GMAT or MAT scores
- Submit a letter of intent describing your work experience and reasons for pursuing the degree, including how the degree relates to your career goals
- Submit a sample research paper
- Submit a resume
- Submit letter(s) of recommendation
- Complete the residency application form for tuition purposes
- Complete a departmental application form
Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Most certificate programs can be completed in two semesters depending on requirements. Undergraduate degree programs typically take 4 years, although transfer credits can reduce the time to completion. The length of graduate degree programs is anywhere from 12–24 months depending on program requirements and transfer credits.
Yes. Faculty at the University of West Florida are experienced professionals who deliver an online education with the same rigor and benefits of an on-campus program. You will work with course management systems that enhance learning material with multimedia. You will also have the chance to interact one-on-one with classmates and instructors. Depending on the program and course, you will learn in real-time through live lectures and class sessions. Other requirements can be completed on your schedule.
The University of West Florida offers many ways to reduce the cost of your online education. In addition to affordable tuition rates, UWF offers various financial aid options for our online students, including loans, scholarships and grants. Members of the U.S. military, plus their families, are eligible for many military discounts, including free tuition through the Yellow Ribbon Program and tuition waivers. Active-duty military members receive an out-of-state tuition waiver. Residents of Alabama are eligible for Alabama Differential Tuition, a reduced out-of-state tuition rate. You could also enroll in a payment plan or secure a short-term loan.
You can expect a rigorous, quality online education in any UWF programs. If you are struggling in an online class, please reach out to your instructor to receive advice and guidance. You will find that our faculty are earnestly invested in your success.