Environmental Studies encourages and supports students who consider pursuing environmental field studies programs and research opportunities beyond the limitations of our own curriculum. Environmental Studies is proud to be affiliated with a large number of colleges and universities which offer academic credit to students while they participate in environmentally related field studies opportunities across the county and around the world. 

The following is a list of some of the different and popular programs past majors have participated in and have received and applied academic credit towards their major requirements. This list is not exhaustive, and there many other programs available. Students should meet with the Environmental Studies Academic Coordinator before applying to ensure they can receive credit. Questions about the program should be directed to the specific program directly.

sfs

School for Field Studies

The School for Field Studies provides hands-on, interdisciplinary education and environmental research while partnering with local communities around the globe.  NOTE: SFS currently grants UCSB students a $2,000 scholarship off their regular semester long programs (except Chile/Patagonia). Contact SFS for more details or visit their Scholarships & Grants webpage.

School for Field Studies

wildlands

Wildlands Studies Program

Wildlands Studies offers field based research courses on ecology, wildlife management, and conservation in the world’s most remarkable ecosystems. 

UC Field Studies Photo

California Ecology and Conservation

UC Natural Reserve System offers a seven-week field program that brings UC students together for intensive scientific training at NRS reserves. Students complete a series of research projects, learn field techniques, and present findings in oral, poster, and written formats. They hone research, public speaking, and scientific writing skills while gaining familiarity with California’s ecosystems.

alaska

Semester by the Bay - Alaska

Semester by the Bay invites students for a semester on the shore of Kachemak Bay in Homer, Alaska, an area alive with opportunity for outdoor adventures and a rich local arts & cultural community.

Semester by the Bay

swan

Swan Valley Connections

Swan Valley Connections mission is to conserve the intact ecosystems within and surrounding the Swan Valley and to strengthen connections between people and the natural world.

Swan Valley Connections

sea

Sea Education Association

SEA a the leading off-campus environmental program focused on the ocean. Each program offers an interconnected suite of courses designed to explore an ocean-related theme.

Sea Education Association

tatoosh

Tatoosh School

Tatoosh School offers enriching learning experiences through field-based classes. The programs examine the ecological and human dimensions of Alaska’s Inside Passage landscape.

Tatoosh School

semester at sea

Semester at Sea

Semester at Sea offers students an opportunity to explore the people, places and cultures of the world by studying abroad on a ship and sailing to multiple ports around the world.

Semester at Sea

wildrockies

Wild Rockies Field Institute

Wild Rockies Field Institute offers courses in the field in locations stretching from Alaska to Mexico. The program emphasizes on thinking critically about environmental and social issues.

Wild Rockies Field Institute