Overview

About the program

The Earth System Science doctoral program at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides graduate students with the perspective of the Earth as a coupled system and the technical know-how for a successful STEM career.

Advanced course work in oceanography, atmospheric chemistry and dynamics, biogeochemistry, ecology, and human systems broadens students' perspectives and hands-on training in remote sensing, data analysis, modeling, and science communication refines critical research skills.

Dedicated expert faculty and staff, state-of-the-art research instrumentation, and a commitment to team science provide an environment for a diverse student population to thrive, conduct groundbreaking research, and become the researchers, educators, and leaders of tomorrow.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Global Physical Climatology
Humans in the Earth System
Global Biogeochemical Cycles
Practicum in Earth System Science
PhD Thesis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 60 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-12-01 00:00:00

More details

Applicants are encouraged to apply by December 1 for the best chance of admission. The final deadline for applications is March 15.

Language

English

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Delivered

On Campus

Disciplines

Earth Sciences Environmental Sciences View 64 other PhDs in Earth Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of California, Irvine (UCI) and/or in United States, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Other requirements

General requirements

Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized academic institution with degree standards equivalent to those of the University of California
Have a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0
Three letters of recommendation
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Tuition Fee

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International

27366 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 27366 USD per year during 60 months.
National

27366 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 27366 USD per year during 60 months.
In-State

12264 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 12264 USD per year during 60 months.

Living costs for Irvine

1560 - 2585 USD /month

Living costs

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 PhD'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.

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