Can You Really Study Paleontology Online?
In short: sort of, but not directly. While “online paleontology degree” is a popular search, very few accredited universities offer a full degree specifically in paleontology, and none do so entirely online. That’s because paleontology is an interdisciplinary science that relies heavily on hands-on experience, from field digs to fossil preparation and lab-based analysis.
Most professional paleontologists start by earning a bachelor’s degree in a broader discipline such as geology, biology, or earth sciences. These programs lay the scientific foundation for later specialization and often include paleontology courses or research opportunities as electives. Some universities offer a formal paleontology track within their geology or biological sciences departments, but again, these are rarely available in a fully remote format.
So while you can take some introductory coursework online, a career in paleontology will require in-person training at some point. Think of online classes as a way to get started, not the full path to becoming a working paleontologist.
Want to get to the knitty-gritty of paleontology without committing to a career and coursework? Why not pick up some academic textbooks and study on your own? At the bottom of this article are five classic textbooks used by accredited institutions today in teaching the fundamentals of paleontological sciences.
What You Need to Become a Paleontologist
Paleontology is a specialized career path that almost always requires advanced education. If your goal is to work in research, academia, or at a major museum, you’ll need to plan for graduate-level study, often a Master’s or PhD in geology or biology with a focus on paleontology.
But it starts with a solid undergraduate foundation. Most aspiring paleontologists begin with a bachelor’s degree in geology, biology, or a closely related natural science. These programs provide essential training in scientific method, data analysis, and fieldwork, all crucial for fossil identification, excavation, and interpretation. Key subjects include:
- Stratigraphy and sedimentology (understanding rock layers)
- Evolutionary biology
- Comparative anatomy
- Paleobiology or invertebrate paleontology
- Scientific writing and statistics
Hands-on work is just as important as classroom learning. Real field and lab experience, such as working on fossil digs, preparing specimens, or conducting independent research, is essential for building your resume and getting into graduate school.
If your dream is to work in a museum or university, expect to spend several years in academia, publishing original research and potentially teaching. If you’re more interested in public education, science communication, or field work, there are also careers in parks, museums, fossil prep labs, or even oil and gas, all of which benefit from a strong paleontology background, but often don’t require a PhD.
How Online Education Fits In
If you’re hoping to study paleontology entirely online, here’s the reality: fully online paleontology degrees don’t exist, at least not in any serious, accredited form. Paleontology is grounded in physical science. You can’t excavate a fossil, handle specimens, or conduct lab analyses from behind a screen.
However, that doesn’t mean online learning can’t play a role in your journey.
Many geology and biology programs offer online or hybrid options for lecture-based coursework. These can help you get started, especially if you’re exploring the field or need flexibility due to work or location. Online classes might cover:
- Historical geology
- Evolutionary theory
- Earth systems science
- Environmental biology
- Geographic information systems (GIS)
That said, lab and field components are non-negotiable in this line of work. Programs that take paleontology seriously will require hands-on training, whether that means summer field schools, in-person lab intensives, or hybrid degrees where you take foundational coursework online and complete field/lab work on campus.
So if you’re planning to pursue paleontology as a career, think of online courses as a way to build momentum, not a shortcut. You can start with general education requirements or introductory science courses online, but you’ll eventually need to dig in, literally and physically.
Reputable Online or Hybrid Pathways
While there are no fully online paleontology degrees, a few universities offer online bachelor’s programs in geology, biology, or earth science that can serve as a solid starting point, especially if you plan to transfer to an in-person program or pursue graduate study later.
Here are some legitimate programs that include relevant coursework:
Arizona State University Online
- Degree: BS in Earth and Space Exploration
- Highlights: Offers remote classes in geology, planetary science, and evolution. Strong scientific foundation with opportunities to transfer into research-focused graduate programs.
- Caveat: Lab courses may require in-person components.
Oregon State University Ecampus
- Degree: BS in Environmental Sciences
- Highlights: Includes electives in geology and biology. OSU also offers a Geology minor online, which can strengthen your science background if you’re planning further education.
- Caveat: You’ll still need in-person lab and fieldwork to qualify for grad school.
University of Florida Online
- Degree: BA in Geology
- Highlights: Offers foundational geology courses remotely. Strong public university with access to paleontological resources and faculty.
- Caveat: The online BA has limited lab experience compared to the on-campus BS.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
- Degree: BS in Environmental Science
- Highlights: Affordable and flexible. Offers general science and ecology courses that can be a first step.
- Caveat: This is a generalist degree; you’ll need to pivot into field or graduate work to focus on paleontology.
When evaluating programs, look for regional accreditation and faculty with real scientific credentials. Avoid institutions that promise paleontology degrees without research experience, fieldwork, or lab training, these are often diploma mills that won’t prepare you for real-world science careers.
What to Avoid
If you’re serious about pursuing paleontology, it’s just as important to know what not to pursue. The internet is filled with programs that sound promising but ultimately won’t get you anywhere near a professional career in the field.
Here’s what to watch out for:
1. Unaccredited Institutions
Some online schools offer degrees in vague subjects like “natural sciences” or “life science history” with paleontology as a buzzword. If the school is not regionally accredited or doesn’t clearly explain its faculty, curriculum, and graduation outcomes, it’s not worth your time or money.
2. Paleontology Degrees with No Lab or Fieldwork
You can’t become a paleontologist without touching rocks, bones, and sediment. Programs that promise a fully online path to a science career without any in-person lab or field training are misleading at best. A graduate admissions committee won’t accept those credits, and employers won’t recognize them.
3. Medical- or Health-Focused Biology Degrees
Some universities, even legitimate ones, offer online biology degrees that focus on pre-med or healthcare tracks, not evolutionary or paleobiological science. For example, Grand Canyon University offers a biology degree online, but it centers on medical applications, not paleontology. A single geology elective won’t make up for that.
4. Programs with No Path to Graduate Study
If a program can’t realistically lead to a Master’s or PhD in geology or biology, it’s not a good foundation. Look for programs that prepare you for grad school with research opportunities, science writing, and lab-intensive coursework.
5. Buzzwords Without Substance
Be wary of sites that throw around terms like “dinosaur science” or “fossil hunting certification” without listing real academic credentials or partnerships. Paleontology is a rigorous, competitive field. If it sounds too easy, it probably is.
Tips for Future Paleontologists
If you’re inspired by ancient life and determined to make a career in paleontology, here’s how to start building a path that actually works, even if you’re beginning online.
1. Get a Strong Science Foundation
Focus your undergraduate studies on geology, biology, or earth sciences. These majors provide the coursework and research background you’ll need to pursue paleontology at the graduate level. Supplement your degree with electives like evolutionary biology, sedimentology, or paleobiology whenever possible.
2. Seek Out Fieldwork Early
Nothing replaces field experience. Look for summer field schools, museum-run digs, or university-organized fossil expeditions. These are essential for learning excavation methods, fossil identification, and mapping, and they’ll help you stand out on graduate school applications.
3. Volunteer at Museums or Universities
Many natural history museums welcome volunteers to help with fossil prep, curation, or public education. University research labs may also allow undergrads or local students to assist with sorting, cataloging, or analyzing specimens.
4. Find a Mentor in the Field
Reach out to paleontologists working at universities or museums. A simple email expressing your interest and asking for guidance or reading recommendations can lead to real relationships and even future opportunities.
5. Use Online Courses Strategically
Online classes are great for fulfilling general education or introductory science requirements, especially if you’re a nontraditional student or returning to school. But remember: they’re a starting point, not a substitute for physical science experience.
6. Plan for Grad School Early
If you’re serious about becoming a professional paleontologist, your long-term goal should be a Master’s or PhD. Start preparing during undergrad by getting research experience, building academic relationships, and keeping your GPA strong.
7. Stay Curious, Stay Grounded
Paleontology can be slow, messy, and incredibly rewarding. It’s a field driven by curiosity, collaboration, and deep time, not just dinosaurs. Embrace the patience it takes, and surround yourself with others who are equally passionate.
Want to Study Paleontology Without Enrolling? Start with These Textbooks
If you’re fascinated by ancient life but not ready (or able) to enroll in a full academic program, you can still dive into the hard science of paleontology on your own terms. These textbooks are used in real university courses and provide a rigorous foundation for self-learners.
1. Introduction to Paleobiology and the Fossil Record by Michael J. Benton and David A.T. Harper
A gold-standard undergraduate textbook. Covers fossilization, evolutionary theory, taxonomy, and all the major fossil groups. Accessible but thorough, with diagrams and real examples from the fossil record.
2. Vertebrate Paleontology by Michael J. Benton
More focused on backboned animals, this book is ideal if you’re particularly interested in dinosaurs, mammals, or the evolution of humans. It’s used in many upper-level university courses.
3. Bringing Fossils to Life: An Introduction to Paleobiology by Donald R. Prothero
A highly readable but detailed guide to evolutionary patterns, paleoecology, and functional morphology. Great for those who want strong science without an overly dry tone.
4. Historical Geology by Reed Wicander and James S. Monroe
Paleontology and geology are deeply intertwined. This textbook offers a geological framework, from plate tectonics to stratigraphy, that’s essential for understanding fossil contexts.
5. Invertebrate Paleontology and Evolution by E.N.K. Clarkson
A classic reference for anyone interested in the vast diversity of fossil invertebrates. Denser than others on this list, but incredibly rewarding for those who want to master the finer points.
Pro tip: If cost is a concern, check your local library or university bookstore for used copies, or try free alternatives like OpenStax and Internet Archive for older editions. You can also audit paleontology-related MOOCs on platforms like Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn to supplement your reading.
