Graduate Program

Deep and diverse areas of research

The faculty members in Earth System Science have very strong graduate groups and premier research programs. Through its courses, seminars, and speaker series, ESS offers graduate students an opportunity to be part of an intellectual community with common or related interests and goals. You can learn about specific degree requirements below, or through the Stanford Bulletin/Explore Degrees.

PhD degree

The objectives of the doctoral program are to enable students to develop the skills needed to conduct original investigations in environmental and Earth system sciences, to interpret the results, and to present the data and conclusions in a publishable manner. We also intend that our graduates obtain strong communication skills and leadership skills, with the ability to teach and communicate effectively with the public. Learn more about the program and course requirements for the ESS PhD degree.