Overview

The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology M.A. at University of California, Santa Cruz provides students with an advanced understanding of the natural world across terrestrial, marine, and freshwater ecosystems. This programme combines rigorous academic study with high-impact research opportunities in a unique coastal setting. Students benefit from a collaborative environment that explores how life adapts and interacts within changing environments.

Why Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at University of California, Santa Cruz?

The university is ranked second in the United States for marine and freshwater biology, offering unparalleled access to diverse natural laboratories. Students have direct access to 100 acres of land with proximity to the Monterey Bay and six distinct natural reserves. This idyllic location inspires transformative research and educational missions.

The department is a global leader in specific fields, including being ranked first in the world for elephant seal research. Small class sizes ensure a strong culture of faculty-student collaboration, allowing for a personalised academic experience. Facilities and research sites extend beyond the local area to international locations such as Mexico, Tahiti, and Australia.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 15102 per year
National fee: USD 15102 per year
Local fee: USD 15924 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to deepen scientific understanding while empowering students to apply knowledge to real-world challenges like climate resilience. Modules may include:

Ecology
Evolutionary Biology
Marine Biology
Plant Sciences
Ecological Theory
Genetic Technologies
Biodiversity Conservation
Environmental Health

Careers with Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Graduates are prepared to address critical environmental issues through roles in species conservation and ecosystem management. The programme empowers students to apply ecological and evolutionary science to enhance climate resilience in various professional sectors. Many alumni pursue careers in research, environmental consultancy, and biodiversity protection.

The training provided enables scientists to lead statewide collaborations and monitor environmental outbreaks, such as avian influenza. By developing expertise in field observations and sample collection, graduates become essential contributors to environmental health monitoring. The skills gained support careers in both governmental agencies and private conservation organisations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Marine Ecology

Plant Ecology

Field Methods in Plant Ecology Laboratory

Community Ecology

Modeling Evolution and Ecology

Mathematical Modeling and Data Science in Ecology and Evolution

Facilitating Change in Coastal Science Policy

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-10 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Cruz, United States

Disciplines

Biology Ecology View 143 other Masters in Ecology in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited university awarded (conferred) prior to the quarter in which admission is sought.
- Applicants with a three-year undergraduate degree must also hold a post graduate diploma, Master’s Degree, or a higher degree.
- Vocational, secretarial, associate, or technical degrees are not acceptable as a first degree.
- Degrees that are completed through extension universities are not acceptable as first degrees.
- Degrees that follow the Bologna Accord must state as such in the official transcript.
A cumulative or overall GPA of 3.0 (on a 4 point scale) in the last two years of undergraduate education. This should be displayed on your official academic records.

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

15102 USD / year

≈ 15102 USD / year
Out-of-State

15102 USD / year

≈ 15102 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

15924 USD / year

≈ 15924 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Cruz

United States

1710 - 2560 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

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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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

Santa Cruz

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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