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 non-UCEAP programs, colleges, and universities which offer academic credit to students while they participate in environmentally related study abroad and field studies opportunities across the county and around the world.
Any student considering participating in a non-UCEAP study abroad or environmental field studies program should first read the Guidelines for ES & HYDRO Majors Participating in Third-party Study Abroad and Environmental Field Studies Programs to assure they understand how units earned may apply towards major or university requirements.
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 Advising Team before applying to ensure they can receive credit. Questions about specific programs should be directed to the host project/program organization or school directly.
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.
Wildlands Studies Program
Wildlands Studies offers field based research courses on ecology, wildlife management, and conservation in the world’s most remarkable ecosystems.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Wild Rockies Field Institute
Wild Rockies Field Institute runs upper-division field courses which center critical thinking on complex environmental and social issues — all while backpacking, kayaking, and bike touring the Rocky Mountain West.