Overview

The Environmental Science and Policy programme at University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex relationship between human activity and the natural world. Students explore how institutional policies and regulations influence physical environments and ecosystems. This interdisciplinary approach ensures graduates can navigate the intersection of scientific data and public governance.

The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between quantitative scientific research and the practical application of law, economics, and social science. By linking these fields, the university equips students with the tools necessary for effective environmental problem-solving. This foundation is essential for addressing modern crises such as climate change, water supply issues, and resource depletion.

Why Environmental Science and Policy at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

The university offers a unique interdisciplinary structure, drawing expertise from the Joe C. Wen School of Population and Public Health and the Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences. Students benefit from a curriculum that allows for specialised focus areas, including urban planning, climatology, and atmospheric sciences. The programme also emphasises practical experience through dedicated field study and research opportunities.

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

The curriculum provides a robust foundation in earth systems and policy analysis. Modules may include:

Earth System Chemistry
Earth System Biology
Earth System Physics
Environmental Analysis and Design
Urban Planning and Policy
Sustainable Energy Systems
Sustainable Food and Water Systems
Environmental Data Science
Research Design

Careers with Environmental Science and Policy

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional roles in both the public and private sectors. Common career paths include environmental management, resource conservation, and environmental law. Many alumni find success in environmental consulting, working for non-governmental organisations, or pursuing roles in urban and environmental design.

The programme also serves as a strong platform for advanced academic pursuits. Students frequently progress to Master’s or Ph.D. programmes in fields such as public administration, geography, environmental studies, and regional planning. The combination of scientific literacy and policy expertise makes graduates highly competitive in the global job market.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Earth System Chemistry

Earth System Biology

Earth System Physics

Sustainable Energy Systems

Sustainable Food and Water Systems

Data Analysis for Earth Sciences

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

Environmental Economics & Policy Environmental Sciences View 1437 other Bachelors in Environmental Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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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 Environmental Science and Policy.

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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