Overview

The Environmental Systems Science programme at University of California, Merced provides students with the scientific foundation required to address urgent global issues such as climate change and resource management. This degree integrates the study of chemical, physical, and biological processes to understand the complex systems that shape our natural world. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world applications.

Why Environmental Systems Science at University of California, Merced?

The university offers a unique learning environment with significant natural landmarks located right in its backyard. Students have access to premier research facilities, including the Sierra Nevada Research Institute and the Merced Vernal Pools and Grassland Reserve. These locations provide unparalleled opportunities for hands-on field studies and high-impact research experiences.

The faculty consists of a highly interdisciplinary group of experts who lead dedicated research labs. This environment allows undergraduates to engage directly with cutting-edge environmental science, preparing them for the high-demand workforce. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their upper-division elective courses to their specific interests in Earth and environmental systems.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 53656 per year
National fee: USD 53656 per year
Local fee: USD 16054 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum provides a firm foundation in the fundamentals of Earth sciences and ecology. Modules may include:

Chemistry
Biology
Hydrology
Ecology
Earth Sciences
Environmental Systems

Careers with Environmental Systems Science

Graduates are well-prepared for fulfilling roles in climate change mitigation, sustainability management, and the protection of endangered species. The programme equips students with the technical skills needed for professional positions in both the public and private sectors. Many alumni find success in governmental geological surveys, environmental protection groups, and engineering industries.

Common career paths for graduates include roles such as:

Atmospheric Scientist
Botanist
Ecologist
Geophysicist
Oceanographer
Park Ranger
Seismologist
Natural Resource Manager
Environmental Analyst

The diverse training in laboratory experiments and computational analysis ensures that students are competitive candidates for high-caliber employment. Additionally, the programme provides a strong academic base for those wishing to pursue further education in specialised environmental fields or urban ecology research.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Earth Resources and Society

Weather, Climate, and the Environment

Geology

Marine Science

Air Quality, Air Resources and Environmental Health

Biodiversity and Conservation

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-31 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-26 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

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Merced, United States

Disciplines

Environmental Sciences View 1433 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

Secondary school certificate of completion

GPA of 3.4 or above

Completion of 15 yearlong academic courses with a 3.4 GPA: 2 years of history (in place of U.S. history, history of your country), 4 years of composition and literature in language in which you are instructed, 3 years (four years recommended) of college-preparatory mathematics that include the topics covered in elementary and advanced algebra and two- and three-dimensional geometry.* (Approved integrated math courses may be used to fulfill part or all of this requirement.), 2 years of laboratory science (biology, chemistry, and/or physics) OR 2 years of integrated science , 2 years of a second language , 1 yearlong course (or 2 semesters) of visual and performing arts

Applicants must demonstrate strong abilities in reading, writing, comprehension and verbal communication in the English language

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

53656 USD / year

≈ 53656 USD / year
Out-of-State

53656 USD / year

≈ 53656 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

16054 USD / year

≈ 16054 USD / year

Living costs

Merced

United States

1100 - 1600 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 Systems 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

Merced

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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