The Graduate Program in Coastal Science and Policy prepares future leaders to solve current and emerging challenges to coastal sustainability.

The program offers two programs of study, a masters of science and a Ph.D. designated emphasis for UCSC Ph.D. students. Coursework emphasizes interdisciplinary scholarship, project-based study, and developing practical solutions to real-world problems.

The intensive academics, real-world experience, and engagement with institutional partners limits the capacity of the Masters program to small cohorts of exceptional students each year. Small cohorts, along with need-based financial aid, will allow for students to forge relationships with faculty, professionals, and practitioners in the field. The program focuses on practical training to provide integrated solutions to social and ecological challenges via four interconnected nodes that leverage UCSC’s existing leadership in coastal sustainability:

• Conserving biodiversity, sustaining ecosystem processes, and ensuring human well-being

• Mitigating hazards to nature and society; fostering societal adaptation

• Maintaining security of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial food and energy systems

• Advancing innovative economic and financial models in business and industry