The undergraduate major in Earth Systems Science provided students with a quantitative understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological principles that control the processes, reactions, and evolution of the Earth as a support system for life. Emphasis is given to the interactions between biological systems and physical Earth processes.

This major emphasizes a highly interdisciplinary approach to Earth Systems Science, incorporating field studies, laboratory experiments, and computations. Complementary coursework in the social sciences exposes students to the political, economic, and societal implications of human interactions with the environment.

The location of UC Merced in the San Joaquin Valley near the Sierra Nevada offers an excellent and diverse real-world laboratory for studying the natural environment and how it is affected by human activity. Additionally, the UC Merced Sierra Nevada Research Institute provides a rich milieu of faculty expertise, research seminars, and other activities, and provides opportunities for undergraduate internships.

Emphases

• Atmospheric Sciences
• Ecosystem Science
• Geochemistry and Biogeochemistry
• Hydrologic and Climate Sciences

 Transfer Students

Transfer information, including preparation for the Earth Systems Sciences major, general education preparation and eligibility requirements is available at the Transfer Admission site.

Additional Information

For more information on the Earth Systems Sciences major, please visit the UC Merced School of Natural Sciences web site.