UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA · UNITED STATES
Earth Science
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
—
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- No. 8 Public UniversityForbes Magazine Ranking
- 90+ Undergraduate MajorsProgram Variety
- Distinguished FacultyAcademic Excellence
- Field StudiesHands-on Experience
The Earth Science department at UC Santa Barbara studies the Earth as a whole system, focusing on the interactions between its solid components, water, atmosphere, and living organisms. The program also delves into the historical evolution of the Earth system over geological time. Students will explore ongoing processes on land and in the oceans, and use the geological record to understand past planetary changes and predict future global shifts. This involves using observations, measurements, experiments, and models to study Earth's features and life from an atomic to a global scale.
Careers
Graduates from the Earth Science program are well-prepared for a wide array of career paths. The diverse skills acquired in mapping, analysis, visualization, computing, and problem-solving open doors in various sectors.
- Private sector positions
- Government roles
- K-12 education
- Academia
- Industry
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. Accepted scores include IELTS 6.5 or higher, TOEFL iBT 80 or better (taken before Jan 2026), Duolingo English Test (DET) 115 or higher, or a transferable college course in English composition with a grade of 'C' or better.
- Where can I find specific tuition and fee information?
- Tuition and fee information, including campus-based fees, can vary annually. For the most current rates, please consult the UC Santa Barbara Registrar's website.
- What are the career prospects for Earth Science graduates?
- Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in the private sector, government roles, K-12 education, academia, and industry. The program equips students with skills in mapping, analysis, visualization, computing, and problem-solving.
- How do I apply to the Earth Science program as an international student?
- International students should visit the UC Santa Barbara Admissions website for detailed application procedures. This includes reviewing admission requirements, submitting the online application by the deadline, and ensuring all required test scores are sent directly from the testing agency.
- When are English proficiency test scores due?
- English proficiency test scores must be sent by the December test date prior to enrollment and must be available in July prior to the academic year you intend to enroll.
Entry requirements
IELTS6.5 or higher
TOEFL iBT80 or better (taken before Jan 2026)
TOEFL iBT Home Edition80 or better (taken before Jan 2026)
TOEFL iBT4.5 or better (taken Jan 2026 or later)
TOEFL iBT Home Edition4.5 or better (taken Jan 2026 or later)
Duolingo English Test (DET)115 or higher
UC-transferable college course in English compositionGrade of 'C' or better
English proficiency test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency and must be available in July prior to enrolling. TOEFL, IELTS, and DET scores are valid for two years from the exam date. UC does not accept IELTS One Skill Retake or MyBest TOEFL. Only the highest composite score from a single sitting is allowed.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the UC Santa Barbara Registrar's website for specific tuition and fee information, as rates can vary and are updated annually. For the 2024-2025 academic year, campus-based fees are available.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the UC Santa Barbara Registrar's website for specific tuition and fee information, as rates can vary and are updated annually. For the 2024-2025 academic year, campus-based fees are available.
LivingInformation on estimated living costs is not provided on the linked pages.
Campus-based fees fund student services and facilities and are updated yearly. For detailed fee schedules, please consult the Registrar's website.
How to apply
1. Visit Admissions WebsiteNavigate to the UC Santa Barbara Admissions website to find specific information for undergraduate, graduate, or international applicants.
2. Review Admission RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the academic and English proficiency requirements for your chosen program.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application by the specified deadlines.
4. Send Test ScoresEnsure all required test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) are sent directly from the testing agency to the UCSB Office of Admissions.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. Accepted scores include IELTS 6.5 or higher, TOEFL iBT 80 or better (taken before Jan 2026), Duolingo English Test (DET) 115 or higher, or a transferable college course in English composition with a grade of 'C' or better.
Where can I find specific tuition and fee information?
+
Tuition and fee information, including campus-based fees, can vary annually. For the most current rates, please consult the UC Santa Barbara Registrar's website.
What are the career prospects for Earth Science graduates?
+
Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in the private sector, government roles, K-12 education, academia, and industry. The program equips students with skills in mapping, analysis, visualization, computing, and problem-solving.
How do I apply to the Earth Science program as an international student?
+
International students should visit the UC Santa Barbara Admissions website for detailed application procedures. This includes reviewing admission requirements, submitting the online application by the deadline, and ensuring all required test scores are sent directly from the testing agency.
When are English proficiency test scores due?
+
English proficiency test scores must be sent by the December test date prior to enrollment and must be available in July prior to the academic year you intend to enroll.