Top 25 Low-Cost Online Bachelor's in Sustainability for 2020

An online bachelor’s degree in Sustainability is designed for students who are passionate about protecting and sustaining the environment. In this interdisciplinary field, they learn about human and natural interactions and how they impact the environment.

The online curricula for bachelor’s degrees in Sustainability blend social and physical sciences with ecological and business studies. Just like the campus programs, the online programs too offer foundational knowledge by combining theory and practice. In this case, however, students can opt for local internships or projects to get some hands-on experience. Some students go on to work in entry-level positions in the burgeoning industry while others choose to enroll in graduate programs and get a master’s degree in Sustainability.

The demand for experts in the field is steadily increasing. Governments are enacting stricter regulations to combat climate change, and they need experts who can help them in this endeavor. Students who get degrees in Sustainability, environmental science, or related fields will continue to be in demand. They join the workforce as trained and knowledgeable ecological experts who study the damages done to the environment and come up with innovative solutions to contain them.

Some of the online undergraduate degrees in Sustainability mentioned here are:

Online BS in Business Admin – Green and Sustainable Management
Online Sustainability B.S. (Postbaccalaureate or Double Degree)
Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainability Management
Online Sustainability Management (B.A.)
Online Sustainability Management B.A.S. Degree
Online Bachelor of Arts Sustainability and the environment
Online Bachelor of Arts in Energy and Sustainability Policy
Online Bachelor of Arts in Business (Sustainability)
Online B.A. in Anthropology Environmental Sustainability
Online Bachelor of Science in Alternative and Renewable Energy Management
Online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy

The online bachelor of Sustainability programs are designed for working professionals who wish to receive foundational knowledge and training as they continue with their day jobs. The leading schools that offer an online degree in the field allow a flexible and self-paced format for online students so that they balance work and studies easily. Students learn from the same faculty as on-campus programs and are trained to create and execute sustainable business plans for ethical and environmentally conscious products and services.

Methodology

In order to determine the best college to attend, there are several things to weigh and consider. The quality of the program and its affordability are the top considerations for most students. The accreditation matters as well. It determines the recognition of the program and its value by corporates, organizations, and government entities. Lastly, students need to look at the return on investment and how well the program prepares for graduate studies.
Our research was based on each school’s website and other reputable college ranking sites like U.S. News, College Factual, The Princeton Review, Niche.

In this ranking, we have gone through the schools that offer an online bachelor’s degree in Sustainability and shortlisted 25 of the most affordable programs. Schools were then independently analyzed and awarded points based on the following factors:

Rating and Ranking Methodology

Tuition

Net Price Below $10,000: 4 points
Net Price Below $15,000: 3 points
Net Price Below $18,000: 2 points
Net Price Below $20,000: 1 point

Student to Faculty Ratio

Less than 20:1: 1 point
Less than 15: 1: 2 points
Less than 10: 1: 3 points

Return on Investment (ROI) According to Payscale.com

Top 500: 1 point
Top 300: 2 points
Top 150: 3 points

Flexibility of the Program (asynchronous course delivery, hybrid options, part-time/full-time schedule, etc. ) – 1 point per item

Online Student Support Network (faculty mentors/advisors, etc.)— 1 point per item

Concentrations/Specializations – 1 point per item (5-pt cap)

Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item

“Wow” Factor – 1 point

#25 Chatham University

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Sustainability, B.A./B.S. Online

Website
Points: 7

25 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's in Sustainability

Chatham University offers an online bachelor’s degree in sustainability via the Falk School of Sustainability & Environment. Students have the option to choose from four different tracks – Natural Resource Management, Sustainable Energy & Urban Systems, Food Systems, and Sustainable Business. The 44 credit program allows students to explore the relationship between environmental and human wellbeing and explain how they change over time. They gain a holistic and integrated perspective on socio-ecological systems and develop ethical transformative leadership practices, including creative solutions and strategies in multiple contexts. They also learn to apply best practices for global, national, regional, interpersonal, and personal decision making, including accessing appropriate sources and types of knowledge and strategically managing uncertainty. Chatham University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Average tuition per year: $39,902
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
ROI: NA

#24 Roosevelt University

Chicago, Illinois

Online Bachelor’s in Sustainability Studies (B.A.)

Website
Points: 8

Roosevelt University offers an online Bachelor’s in Sustainability Studies (BA) via its College of Arts and Sciences. The 48-credit hour program is based on the foundation of the Three Es of sustainability — environment, economy, and equity. Graduates are prepared to use insights and analytic methods from science, policy, and environmental justice to tackle the sustainability problems of the 21st century. Students learn to apply their knowledge on campus and community projects to promote social justice. They explore natural and social ecosystems, recognize national and international implications of sustainability issues, and put sustainability principles into practice in service of environmental justice, community development, and ecological restoration. Roosevelt University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Average tuition per credit: $825
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
ROI (College Factual): 7.3%

#23 Everglades University

Boca Raton, Florida

Online Bachelor of Science in Alternative and Renewable Energy Management

Website
Points: 8

Everglades University offers a Bachelor of Science Degree online with a major in Alternative and Renewable Energy Management. The 123 credit curriculum covers alternative and renewable energy-specific occupational subjects along with management skills in energy storage, renewable and alternative energy, and safety. Students gain foundational knowledge of sustainable methods with an emphasis on the regulations and principles of alternative energy, sustainability, energy and the environment, energy storage and the hydrogen economy, energy policy, and business and management operations, among others. The graduates are prepared for entry-level careers in the field of alternative energy to work as product managers, sustainability analysts, energy consultants, etc. Everglades University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average tuition per credit: $730
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
ROI: NA

#22 Everglades University

Miami, Florida

Online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Policy and Management

Website
Points: 8

Everglades University offers an online Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in Environmental Policy and Management that prepares students for entry-level careers in the field of environmental policy and management. The 123-credit curriculum covers the necessary business knowledge and skills they would need to be successful in government and industry environmentally-related professions. Students gain broad-based knowledge of environmental planning, global environmental change, and ecological sustainability. Emphasis is placed on business and management skills, communication skills, sustainability, environmental regulations and policies, and critical thinking. Topics include Introduction to Sustainability, Introduction to Environmental Policy, and Introduction to Environmental Change, among others. Everglades University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average tuition per credit: $730
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
ROI: NA

#21 Arizona State University

Tempe, Arizona

Online Bachelor of Arts in Business (Sustainability)

Website
Points: 9

Arizona State University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Business (Sustainability) that provides the necessary skills required for creating an improved environmental and social quality of life for future generations. Students get to explore different aspects of business sustainability and prepare to meet the increasing demands for the leaders in the field. The 120-credit program helps them develop expertise in business, scientific, and societal aspects of sustainability. They become well-versed in evaluating, understanding, and acting upon eco-friendly and sustainability issues along with the decision-making abilities for long-term and short term gains. They are qualified for careers in supply chain management, agribusiness, compliance, corporate responsibility, international development, operations, urban dynamics, and policy and governance. Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Average tuition per credit: $707
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
ROI (College Factual): 8%

#20 Prescott College

Prescott. Arizona

Online Sustainability Management (B.A.)

Website
Points: 9

Prescott College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability Management online that provides students the creative flexibility and freedom to design and implement sustainable measures. The 120-credit curriculum is designed to facilitate enterprise and business growth while considering the environmental concerns for both rural and urban settings. Students learn to support the practices, values, physical environment of the community, needs of the people who stay there, access points to, and the influences of the relevant private and government enterprises whose actions affect the community’s wellbeing. Graduates go on to work in various community and business settings where they can contribute to environmental sustainability.Prescott College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the Association for Experiential Education.
Average tuition per credit: $598
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
ROI: NA

#19 Penn State World Campus

University Park, Pennsylvania

Online Bachelor of Arts in Energy and Sustainability Policy

Website
Points: 10

Penn State World Campus offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Energy and Sustainability Policy that focuses on the policy within the realm of sustainability and energy. Students gain essential skills and knowledge to analyze, research, and communicate information regarding the emerging global trends in technology, energy policy, and economics. The 120 credit interdisciplinary curriculum integrates the coursework in the fields of sustainability management, energy security, sustainability policy analysis, and foreign and domestic energy. Graduates go on to work as agents and stakeholders, facilitating design, planning, and communication between the operations wing and executive wing of different organizations. Career options range from nonprofits, government agencies, commercial firms to energy trade groups, and regulatory and advocacy bodies. Penn State World Campus is regionally accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
Average tuition per credit: $576
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
ROI (College Factual): 7.2%

#18 Maryville University

St. Louis, Missouri

Online Bachelor’s in Sustainability

Website
Points: 10

Maryville University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sustainability that uses a multidisciplinary approach to train students to be the future stewards of environmental sustainability. Students can choose from three tracks that allow them to tailor their degrees to their career goals and interests. The 128-credit curriculum helps them understand how humans impact on the environment, develop sustainable solutions, navigate complex economic and social issues, and drive innovation. The experiential learning opportunities provide in-depth knowledge in fields like ecology, conservation, economics, environmental science, urban planning, social and cultural issues, sustainable agriculture, and environmental law. Maryville University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Average tuition per credit: $500
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
ROI: NA

#17 Unity College

Unity, Maine

Online B.S. in Environmental Studies

Website
Points: 10

Unity College offers an online B.S. in Environmental Studies that provides students with the important skills and knowledge to deal with the most pressing issues related to the environment. The 120 credit curriculum uses an interdisciplinary approach and combines social sciences, natural sciences, and the humanities to help students gain a holistic understanding of different environmental issues. It draws upon the knowledge and skills of renowned thinkers, leaders, and environmental innovators to offer innovative solutions to the environmental challenges hitherto unavailable. As students gain an in-depth understanding of the causes and impacts of environmental issues across the globe, they are well-prepared to lead in various ecological careers. Unity College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Average tuition per credit: $470
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
ROI: NA

#16 University of Wisconsin River Falls

River Falls, Wisconsin

Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Management)

Website
Points: 11

University of Wisconsin River Falls offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Management that provides a broad overview of the intersections in natural sciences, business, and social systems. The 123-credit program is designed for students who are passionate about strong profitability, a healthy environment, and vital communications. Designed with input from industry experts, the curriculum prepares students to apply their knowledge in the workplace and bring about sustainable solutions. Students received personalized advice from a faculty with industry experience and subject-matter expertise. The 100% online program is flexible and designed for working adults. They receive robust support from advisors as well as the tech team to continue their learning seamlessly. The University of Wisconsin-River Falls is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Average tuition per credit: $440
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
ROI (College Factual): 7.4%

#15 University of Wisconsin-Parkside

Kenosha, Wisconsin

Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Management

Website
Points: 11

The University of Wisconsin Parkside offers an online bachelor’s degree in sustainable management that covers subjects like environmental science, business, sustainable development, and resource management that translates to multiple industries. The 60-credit program teaches students to analyze the sustainability issues from both global and local perspectives, analyze and interpret scientific, social, and business-related details regarding sustainability, make well-versed judgments for sustainable outcomes and integrate the concepts of sustainability into applied projects and settings. Graduates go on to work as sustainability consultants, sustainability specialists, sustainable design contractors, social compliance analysts, and renewable energy analysts, among other related jobs. The University of Wisconsin Parkside is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Average tuition per credit: $440
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
ROI (College Factual): 8.6%

#14 University of Wisconsin-Superior

Superior, Wisconsin

Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Management

Website
Points: 11

The University of Wisconsin-Superior offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Management that prepares students to meet the growing industry demand for qualified experts. They learn how to balance plants, people, and profit for ensuring the success of a business. The 63-credit curriculum teaches students to make the connection between different businesses and organizations, social systems, and environmental science necessary for successful sustainable outcomes. They go on to apply these skills and knowledge and help develop strategic and successful sustainable initiatives. The 100% online and flexible format works well for working adults who are looking to get higher education in the field as they continue with their day jobs. University of Wisconsin-Superior is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Average tuition per credit: $440
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
ROI (College Factual): 7.4%

#13 Bellevue University

Bellevue, Nebraska

Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainability Management

Website
Points: 12

Bellevue University offers an Online Bachelor of Science in Sustainability Management that is designed for students who wish to make a difference in protecting the environment with some sustainable practices. The 127-credit program provides them with an in-depth understanding of environmental science, green technology, energy technology, and natural resources conservation within the private and public sectors. The program also prepares graduates to sit for the LEED Green Associate Exam. Graduates are well-prepared to calculate the sustainability of the present technology applications in the field of energy technology, environmental science, and natural resource management. They are ready to prepare strategies for connecting to the stakeholders in some sustainable projects. They are trained to lead and manage the sustainability projects for the fields like energy, water, urban, and land management. Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Average tuition per credit: $425
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1
ROI (College Factual): 10%

#12 University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, Illinois

Bachelor’s in Earth, Society & Environmental Sustainability

Website
Points: 12

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a Bachelor’s of Science online in Earth, Society & Environmental Sustainability via its College of Liberal Arts and Science. Designed in response to the ever-increasing demand for environment and sustainability programs, it offers students two different concentrations, namely the environment and society. They have the option to specialize in different areas like environmental informatics, environment consulting, sustainable business, geographic information science, sustainable societies, and more. Classes are asynchronous and flexible, which makes it an excellent program for working adults as well as regular students. The 120-credit program prepares students to get into careers like business consulting, environmental consulting, teaching, sustainability management, the Peace Corps, environmental engineering, and wetlands restoration. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (NCA).
Average tuition per credit: $409
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
ROI (College Factual): 8.1%

#11 Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Online BS in Business Administration-Green and Sustainable Management

Website
Points: 12

Liberty University offers an online B.S. in Business Admin-Green and Sustainable Management for students who are passionate about understanding the critical ecological factors and protecting the environment. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs or ACBSP, it covers core topics like Environment and Sustainability, Energy Resources and Efficiencies, Environmental Science and Policy, and Geographic Information Systems (G.I.S.) among others. The program is taught by expert faculty who teach about environmental sustainability from the biblical worldview. It requires 120 credits for completion. Graduates go on to work as Parks and Recreation managers, construction project managers, sustainability analysts, and professional consultants. Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average tuition per credit: $390
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
ROI: NA

#10 University of Massachusetts Amherst

Amherst, Massachusetts

Online Bachelor’s in Sustainability Studies

Website
Points: 13

The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers an online bachelor’s degree with a focus in sustainability studies via the UMass University Without Walls (U.W.W.) program. The 120-credit curriculum covers topics like Environmental Health Practices, Environmental Compliance Regulations, Environmental & Occupational Toxicology, Climate Adaptation in Urban Areas, Environmental Economics, Organic Farming, and Gardening, Sustainable Agriculture, Sustainable Site Design & Planning, Human Ecology, Exploring Success with Sustainability: Creating Community Based Enterprises, Sustainable Building and LEED Certification, Environmental Evolution and Global Environment Change among others. Students graduate with a commitment to implementing sustainable practices and ideas throughout different sectors of the economy. They go to work in the growing fields of sustainable food, farming, and other initiatives. University of Massachusetts Amherst is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Average tuition per credit: $390
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
ROI (College Factual): 8%

#9 Wilmington University

New Castle, Delaware

Online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy

Website
Points: 13

Wilmington University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy that provides students with the necessary skills to deal with the challenges we face and to protect and preserve our fragile and limited natural resources. The 120 credit program helps students gain the various technical, policy, and science-related competencies they need to excel in environmental careers. The delivery of professional presentations, oral communications, critical thinking strategies, scholarly writing, and the use of different digital and scientific tools to solve issues are some of these. A hands-on practical approach teaches students to be adaptable, creative, and career-ready. Graduates go on to work in different nonprofit and private organizations; federal, local, and state agencies; and academia. Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Average tuition per credit: $381
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
ROI (School Website): 10.6%

#8 Southern Hampshire University

Online B.A. in Anthropology Environmental Sustainability

Website
Points: 13

Southern Hampshire University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with a concentration in Environmental Sustainability. The 120 credit program explores how we can live more effectively and efficiently, keeping environment sustainability in mind. The multidisciplinary approach examines the practical, ethical, and technical skills while viewing and contributing to the world through a historical, social, and evolutionary lens. Students learn to recognize and respond to different environmental and cultural challenges while exploring the interconnectedness of the past to the future. They emerge as good stewards of the natural world and gain skills that are valued by different employers starting from rural and urban organizations to N.G.O.s to private businesses. Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Average tuition per credit: $320
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
ROI (College Factual): 6.5%

#7 Oregon State University

Corvallis, Oregon

Online Sustainability B.S. (Postbaccalaureate or Double Degree)

Website
Points: 14

Oregon State University, renowned as the premier Sustainability and Natural Resources University across the globe, offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree online in sustainability. The program is available as a double degree online through the Oregon State Ecampus. The program is designed to complement the O.S.U. Degree programs along with the previously earned bachelor’s degrees. Students thus have the option to complete this degree along with their primary degree programs, adding to its popularity. The interdisciplinary coursework explores the current concepts and issues in sustainability while fostering the skills, knowledge, and abilities that can address complex issues in both workplaces and communities.
The 45+ credit program prepares students for fields like sustainable product development and strategic planning, sustainability marketing and market research, etc. Oregon State University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Average tuition per credit: $309
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
ROI (College Factual): 7.5%

#6 University of Maryland Global Campus

Largo, Maryland

Bachelor’s in Environmental Management Online

Website
Points: 14

University of Maryland Global Campus offers an online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management, where students learn the ways to mitigate different environmental management issues like water pollution, air pollution, hazardous and solid waste. The 120-credit program uses a hands-on and interdisciplinary approach to teach students how to plan, implement, and control different aspects of environmental management. Topics covered include professional techniques and models, key technologies, and software tools regarding geographic information systems, risk management, and environmental economics. Students learn to develop environmental management plans that follow health, environmental, and safety policies and regulations; manage risks to the environment and human health while incorporating scientific principles. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition: $306 per credit
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
ROI: NA%

#5 American Public University

Charles Town, West Virginia

Online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science

Website
Points: 14

American Public University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science via the College of STEM. The 120 credit program is designed for students who are passionate about managing and safeguarding the environment. The interdisciplinary curriculum blends policy, science, and management. Students gain foundational knowledge of the technical underpinnings of the ways how the environment works and how science informs environmental management. Areas covered in the curriculum include pollution management, stewardship of natural resources, hazardous materials and wildlife and fish management. Students begin to understand today’s social issues from an environmental perspective, learn the factors that impact the development of and compliance with environmental regulations. American Public University System (APUS) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Average tuition per credit: $285
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
ROI: NA

#4 University of Wisconsin-Stout

Menomonie, Wisconsin

Online B.S. Sustainable Management

Website
Points: 14

The University of Wisconsin-Stout offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in Sustainable Management that is designed for students interested in engaging businesses and communities in environmental preservation, sustainability initiatives, and conservation with the business operations. The 63 credit program focuses on a problem-solving and hands-on approach that well-equips graduates with the necessary management skills to lead sustainable businesses. Graduates go on to excel in roles like Construction Manager, Supply Chain Analyst, Sustainability Manager, Sustainability Analyst, Energy consultant, among others. The curriculum touches upon key areas that affect our environment, human impact on it, the various sustainable ways to mitigate the damage done and find innovative solutions for the future. University of Wisconsin-Stout is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges & Schools.
Average tuition per year: $9,463
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
ROI (College Factual): 8.4%

#3 Florida International University

Miami, Florida

Online Bachelor of Arts Sustainability and Environment

Website
Points: 15

Florida International University offers an online bachelor’s degree in sustainability and the environment via the School of Environment, Arts and Society. The 120-credit program explores the various factors influencing the sustainability of organizations, human institutions, technologies, and cultures in different environments. The multidisciplinary curriculum focuses on developing adaptive and creative solutions to different real-world challenges, the connections between different people in the natural, social, and built environment. Students learn to think holistically about sustainability issues. Coursework includes Principles of Microeconomics, Introduction to Environmental Science, Global Environment and Society, Energy Flow in Natural and Man-made Systems, Applied Field Ecology, Environmental Resources, and Pollution, among others. Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Average tuition per credit: $228.81
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
ROI (College Factual): 7.9%

#2 University of Florida Online

Gainesville, Florida

Online Bachelor of Science Environmental Management

Website
Points: 15

The University of Florida Online offers a Bachelor of Science Environmental Management online via the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. The 120 credit program provides students with a solid foundation in the fields of soil science, hydrology, water resources, pest management, and agricultural ecology. The interdisciplinary curriculum provides a thorough knowledge of areas like environment, agricultural, and natural science sectors like environmental policies and analysis, sustainable food and fiber production, energy resources, water resources, stewardship of natural resources, soil conservation, international development, and pollution management. Graduates are prepared to excel as consultants, agricultural producers, and managers in government agencies that are involved in maintaining a sustainable environment. They move forward, intending to make a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of the planet and its inhabitants. University of Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Average tuition per credit: $111.92
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
ROI (College Factual): 8.2%

#1 St. Petersburg College

St. Petersburg, Florida

Online Sustainability Management B.A.S. Degree

Website
Points: 16

St. Petersburg College offers an online Sustainability Management B.A.S. degree that helps students understand the systems and concepts involved in the development and management of sustainability business practices. The 120 credit curriculum provides the necessary management skills and knowledge required in the field. They cover all aspects like people, technology, energy, and natural resources, and economics to prepare for green-collar jobs in different areas related to sustainability management. Graduates of this program become valuable contributors toward sustainability requirements across the globe. They go on to work as sustainability managers, a role that has high demand in sectors like construction, manufacturing, military contracting, government, and international business. St. Petersburg College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC).
Average tuition per credit: $111.75
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
ROI: NA

More About an Online Bachelor Degree in Sustainability

What does an online bachelor’s degree in sustainability cover?

An online bachelor’s degree in sustainability is an interdisciplinary field that combines science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with environmental policy, legislative, and economic strategies. The program is ideal for students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and wish to train in the ecological sciences. They learn how governance and human interactions can have positive and negative effects on our planet.

Undergraduate study in the field prepares them for careers in environmental sustainability by covering areas like sustainable agriculture, management of ecosystems and food systems, and waste disposal. They are the future stewards of the planet who will teach others how to manage resources, improve air and water quality by blending socio-economic and governmental policies.

What does a typical curriculum entail?

An online bachelor’s degree in sustainability curriculum includes topics like Introduction to Sustainability, Careers in Sustainability, Environmental Ethics, Environmental Science and Sustainability, Climate Change and Sustainability, Ecology for Sustainable Management, Renewable Energy for Sustainable Management, Natural Resource Management, Management, and Environmental Information Systems, Environmental and Sustainability Policy, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Sustainability among others.

What careers can one get into with an online bachelor’s degree in sustainability?

A bachelor’s degree in sustainability prepares students for entry-level roles in the field and graduate studies.

Here’s a quick glimpse at some:

Conservation Scientists
Environmental technicians
Environmental Scientists
Agricultural engineers
Atmospheric scientists
Urban Planners
Compliance officers
Environmental managers

Career prospects with an online bachelor’s degree in sustainability?

Sustainability is a rapidly growing field, and the growing demand is slowly leading to exciting career opportunities. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that environmental scientists and related jobs will grow 8% through 2028.
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/environmental-scientists-and-specialists.htm

Are bachelor in Sustainability programs accredited?

Sustainability is a comparatively new area of study, so accreditation by a national body or board for degree programs is yet to be established. Leading universities, however, offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs that are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and similar organizations. Students can be assured of earning a degree that is recognized and accepted by employers.

How to choose an online bachelor’s degree in sustainability?

Choosing the right school and degree can be challenging with so many options out there; choosing an online program can be harder. A big advantage is that students do not have to worry about location and proximity unless the program demands some hours of campus presence for practical study. Other things to consider are the school’s accreditation status, faculty quality, the robust online delivery, students’ support services, and of course, the cost of the program.

What is the program format?

The online programs are offered through a specific school portal where each student has a unique login and password. They can be offered synchronously, which means that all students in a particular class log in at the same time. Or they can be offered asynchronously, which means that students log in per their convenience at different times. Most of the time, schools use specific software with students having complete access. All they need are their laptops and a fast Internet connection.

What is the value of an online bachelor’s degree in sustainability?

Students who enroll in an online bachelor’s degree in sustainability get the same value as an on-campus program. They receive instruction from the same faculty, follow the same curriculum, and mostly complete the same projects and credit hours. The degree they receive is of equal value as the on-campus degree as well.

Related Rankings

Sources:

National Center for Education Statistics
US News & World Report
Niche
College Factual
The Princeton Review
School Websites