In this program, you’ll gain an understanding of the interactions among physical, chemical and biological processes that define Earth’s surface environment. You’ll explore biogeochemical cycles, ecosystems, natural hazards, drivers of climate change, human-environment relationships and the natural resources that sustain human societies. Additionally, you’ll build quantitative and analytical skills, preparing you to develop evidence-based environmental solutions.
In addition to gaining base knowledge about Earth as a complex system, including geology, oceans, climate, soils, life and more, you’ll also tailor your degree to your career interests. You can choose from six elective tracks to focus your studies, or you can take courses from multiple areas. Available tracks include:
- Climate and environmental change.
- Environmental education.
- Environmental management.
- Environmental policy.
- Natural resources.
- Sustainability.
Who’s a good fit for this program?
This Earth and environmental sciences program is designed for those interested in Earth’s natural processes and systems, as well as their impacts on sustainability. You’re an ideal candidate if you’re passionate about solving complex environmental challenges from addressing climate change and natural hazards to environmental degradation and pollution.
Additionally, you may choose this program to support your science-focused career goals. Upon completion, you can seek scientist roles with a specialization in environmental protection and remediation, monitoring and natural hazards assessment. You’ll also have the knowledge needed to pursue science- and sustainability-focused graduate programs.
What are the differences between this BS and a BA in Earth and environmental sciences?
This Bachelor of Science in Earth and environmental sciences encompasses quantitative training in areas such as physics and calculus. You’ll also develop fundamental skills in chemistry related to the remediation of soil and water contaminated by common chemical pollutants.
By comparison, ASU’s Bachelor of Arts in Earth and environmental sciences online has a lower math requirement, leaving room for an extra elective course. Whether you choose the BS or BA program, you’ll graduate with an understanding of the natural processes that define planet Earth and support the development of ecosystems.
Become an environmental steward and drive solutions to today’s most pressing environmental challenges when you pursue a Bachelor of Science in Earth and environmental sciences online from Arizona State University. In the program, you’ll gain a quantitative understanding of Earth’s natural processes and human activities that affect environmental health, climate change and the distribution of natural resources. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for roles that utilize this knowledge to improve human well-being.
Your courses will prepare you to address pressing environmental challenges. You’ll explore topics such as water history, policy and resources, Earth’s critical zone, environmental chemistry and more. To complete the program, you’ll engage in an interactive team project that involves researching and proposing solutions to a practical environmental problem.
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
students enrolled as of fall 2024
in research expenditures in FY23
interdisciplinary schools and departments
undergraduate degrees
graduate degrees
for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”