Overview

The Earth System Science programme at University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides a comprehensive foundation in the physical and biological processes that govern our planet. Students investigate how human activities influence global climate, biogeochemical cycles, and environmental health. This curriculum prepares graduates for technical roles by applying principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to real-world ecological challenges.

The department offers a collaborative learning environment where students engage with scientific literature and modern research methodologies. By examining past climate changes, participants learn to project future environmental states and develop strategies for sustainability. The programme is designed to foster critical thinking and effective communication of complex scientific data.

Why Earth System Science at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

Students benefit from direct involvement in research, working alongside recognised experts in the School of Physical Sciences. The department provides access to advanced facilities for laboratory and field methods, ensuring practical experience in environmental data science. Additionally, the university offers specialised pathways in atmospheric science, hydrology, and oceanography to tailor the degree to specific career goals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Earth System Science
Land Interactions
Ocean Biogeochemistry
Earth's Atmosphere
Environmental Data Science
Aquatic Field Methods
Earth System Science Laboratory and Field Methods
Careers in Earth System Science

Careers with Earth System Science

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional paths in both the public and private sectors. Many pursue roles as research scientists within academic institutions or environmental consultancies. The programme provides the necessary training for careers in air quality monitoring, natural resource management, and environmental policy planning.

Additional opportunities exist in water resource management, conservation, and wildlife protection. For those interested in education, the university offers a specific concentration that leads to secondary teaching certification. Many alumni also choose to continue their academic journey by enrolling in advanced graduate programmes in engineering or physical sciences.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Oceanography

The Atmosphere

Land Interactions

Ocean Biogeochemistry

Earth's Atmosphere

Environmental Data Science

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Earth Sciences View 445 other Bachelors in Earth Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “a-g” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.

UCI will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. After enrollment, exams may be used for class placement or some graduation requirements.

Personal Insight Questions (your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. Key points about the personal insight questions include: freshman applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer, each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.)

English proficiency requirements

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Earth System Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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