Applications Now Open for Fall 2027
Where Environmental Science Meets Policy
Applications to join the next cohort of the UC Davis Graduate Program of Environmental Policy and Management (EPM) are now open! Whether applicants are coming straight from an undergraduate degree or have years of professional experience, now is a great time to start planning an application.
Why EPM?
Today's environmental challenges call for professionals who can bridge science, policy, and management. At UC Davis, students learn to apply environmental science to real-world policy and management issues through a curriculum built on experiential, project-based learning. Students can choose the traditional two-year path, or for applicants with prior professional experience, an accelerated 12-month option.
The program's location in Davis, just 20 minutes from Sacramento, puts students close to state, federal, and nonprofit agencies, giving them opportunities to network with experts and future employers. With nearly 200 alumni working across various sectors, graduates join a growing professional network.
Program highlights
- Non-thesis Master's of Science degree
- Expert, interdisciplinary faculty
- Small cohorts of 30-35 students and working relationships with faculty and staff
- Formalized opportunities for networking and mentorship
- Flexible coursework that lets students specialize in a topical area of interest
EPM graduates go on to lead careers in state natural resources agencies, the federal government, nonprofit organizations, and private consulting firms. See what you can do with an EPM degree.
Meet Us in Person
Recruitment season is underway! This fall, Program Coordinator, Jessica Chalfin represented EPM at the California Forum for Diversity in Higher Education Graduate School Fair in San Diego, joined by EPM alumna Natalie Kataoka (Class of 2024), now a Climate Action Analyst at Ascent Environmental. We enjoyed meeting high-achieving students from across California and sharing what EPM has to offer. If we missed you, join one of the webinars below or reach out to us directly.
We will also be tabling next Wednesday 10/21 at the UC Davis Grad and Law School Fair. This event is free and open to the public. If you're around the Quad, stop by and see us from 11am-2pm!
2027 Application Dates and Deadlines
- Priority deadline: January 5, 2027
- Space available deadline: April 15, 2027
Application Materials
The admissions process is holistic. An application will include:
- Transcripts from all prior institutions
- Statement of Purpose
- Personal Statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Writing sample
- English language proficiency scores (if applicable)
- Application fee ($135 domestic/$155 international)
The admissions committee looks at five demonstrated attributes beyond just the GPA. Applicants are encouraged to review the admissions rubric before applying.
Tip: Start gathering your materials now, especially the letters of recommendation. We suggest giving recommenders at least six weeks notice, so applicants aiming for the priority deadline should reach out well before Thanksgiving.
Join Our Webinar Series
Our free webinars are a chance to hear from program staff and ask questions directly. Each session has a different focus, so attend one or all of them. We hope to see you there!
- Returning to School: For Professionals: 10/27, 5pm PT
- EPM Program Overview: Exploring Opportunities: 11/12, 5pm PT
- Preparing a Competitive Application: 12/2, 5pm PT
Admissions Resources
As applicants prepare for the Fall 2027 cohort, these resources can help with putting together a strong application:
- Required materials
- Frequently asked questions
- Admissions criteria
- Funding your degree
- Why choose UC Davis?
- Incoming cohort profile
Have questions?
Reach out to program staff. We hope to see you in our program next fall!