UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA CRUZ · UNITED STATES
Coastal Science and Policy M.S.
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Two-year Master of Science programProgram Length
- Focus on interdisciplinary solutionsCurriculum Focus
- Hands-on training and capstone projectsLearning Method
- Global relevance with international cohortsStudent Body
- Emphasis on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusionProgram Values
- Leverages UCSC's leadership in coastal sustainabilityUniversity Strength
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Coastal Science and Policy program at UC Santa Cruz is designed for early-career professionals seeking to become leaders in coastal sustainability. This two-year program offers hands-on training, strengthens professional networks, and focuses on developing practical, scalable solutions to complex coastal challenges. Students from diverse backgrounds collaborate in small cohorts, interacting closely with faculty, practitioners, and professionals. The curriculum aims to advance justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion within the field of coastal sustainability. The program is structured to equip students with interdisciplinary knowledge, practical skills, and pragmatic approaches to address issues ranging from watershed management to ocean health.
Curriculum
The program includes a core set of foundational and developmental courses. Year 1 focuses on interdisciplinary coursework, while Year 2 is dedicated to individual capstone projects.
- Year 1
- Natural Sciences for Coastal SustainabilityCSP 200
- Social Sciences for Coastal SustainabilityCSP 210
- Economics for Coastal SustainabilityCSP 220
- Integrated Problem-Based DiscussionCSP 230
- CSP Year 1 Capstone Planning & Design FallCSP 231A
- CSP Year 1 Capstone Planning & Design WinterCSP 231B
- Year 2
- CSP Year 2 Capstone ProjectCSP 299
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Coastal Science and Policy M.S. program?
- The Coastal Science and Policy M.S. program is a two-year Master of Science program.
- What are the main components of the curriculum?
- Year 1 focuses on interdisciplinary coursework including natural sciences, social sciences, and economics, along with capstone planning. Year 2 is dedicated to an individual capstone project.
- What are the estimated tuition fees for international students?
- International students are subject to nonresident tuition rates. For current fee information, please refer to the official UC Santa Cruz Registrar's Office or Graduate Admissions website.
- What are the academic entry requirements for the program?
- Applicants need a Bachelor's degree from a four-year university in a relevant field, at least one course in writing and statistics, and coursework in biological sciences, physical sciences, and social sciences (including policy and economics).
- How do international students apply to the program?
- International applicants should follow the graduate admissions process for UC Santa Cruz, including reviewing requirements, preparing materials like TOEFL or IELTS scores if needed, and submitting the online application by the deadline.
- What are the career outcomes for graduates?
- The program aims to develop early-career leaders in sustainability who can address critical coastal challenges, strengthening professional networks and practical skills.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeFrom a four-year university in a field relevant to coastal sustainability (e.g., natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, interdisciplinary environmental studies).
Specific CourseworkAt least one course in writing and one course in statistics. Additionally, coursework in at least two of the following areas: biological sciences, physical sciences, and social sciences (including policy and economics).
Students are encouraged to apply from diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, socioeconomic, and disciplinary backgrounds. Competitive applicants will likely have additional experience from post-baccalaureate professional jobs or a combination of coursework, internships, and research.
Fees
Tuition (international)Nonresident tuition rates apply. For current fee information, please refer to the official UC Santa Cruz Registrar's Office or Graduate Admissions website.
Tuition (home)Resident tuition rates apply after establishing California residency. For current fee information, please refer to the official UC Santa Cruz Registrar's Office or Graduate Admissions website.
LivingEstimated living costs are available on the Graduate Student costs & budget page.
Residency for tuition purposes is determined by the University of California based on specific criteria. Admitted students must complete the Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) to be assessed fees accurately. Deadlines for SLR submission and document submission apply.
How to apply
1. Review Admissions RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and specific course prerequisites for the M.S. in Coastal Science and Policy program. International applicants should also review specific requirements for international graduate students.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. International applicants may need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores if their previous education was not in English.
3. Complete and Submit ApplicationSubmit your online application through the UC Santa Cruz Graduate Admissions portal by the stated deadline. Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
4. Statement of Legal Residence (SLR)Admitted students will be required to complete the Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) to determine their residency status for tuition purposes. Follow instructions provided in the MyUCSC portal.
5. Follow-up and Document SubmissionMonitor your MyUCSC To-Do List and email for any requests for additional documentation or clarification regarding your application or residency status. Submit any requested documents by the specified deadlines.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Coastal Science and Policy M.S. program?
+
The Coastal Science and Policy M.S. program is a two-year Master of Science program.
What are the main components of the curriculum?
+
Year 1 focuses on interdisciplinary coursework including natural sciences, social sciences, and economics, along with capstone planning. Year 2 is dedicated to an individual capstone project.
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students?
+
International students are subject to nonresident tuition rates. For current fee information, please refer to the official UC Santa Cruz Registrar's Office or Graduate Admissions website.
What are the academic entry requirements for the program?
+
Applicants need a Bachelor's degree from a four-year university in a relevant field, at least one course in writing and statistics, and coursework in biological sciences, physical sciences, and social sciences (including policy and economics).
How do international students apply to the program?
+
International applicants should follow the graduate admissions process for UC Santa Cruz, including reviewing requirements, preparing materials like TOEFL or IELTS scores if needed, and submitting the online application by the deadline.
What are the career outcomes for graduates?
+
The program aims to develop early-career leaders in sustainability who can address critical coastal challenges, strengthening professional networks and practical skills.