University of Miami Rosenstiel School

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Science and Policy

Students enrolled in the Environmental Science and Policy (EVR) program work at the intersection of science and society, committed to assessing, managing, and conserving marine resources through innovation and research. Although course selections are tailored to match individual research and career objectives, our graduates acquire knowledge and expertise critical to ensuring the sustainability of natural resources.

EVR faculty expertise spans quantitative and qualitative disciplines that integrate the biological, ecological, economic, and social dimensions of marine resources and how they are shaped by policy and regulatory frameworks. The essence of the EVR program lies in the diversity of our faculty and curriculum, fostering the cross- and interdisciplinary collaborations necessary to solve some of the world’s most challenging ocean conservation issues. The goal of our PhD and MS program is to prepare students as future leaders in the fields of marine fisheries science, ecosystem modeling, aquaculture, conservation, ecosystem science, coastal geography, socioeconomics, cultural and natural resource management, climate change, environmental law, and marine policy.

Degrees Offered

EVR offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Science (MS) degrees, as well as Master of Professional Science (MPS) degrees with tracks in Coastal Zone Management, Exploration Science, and Marine Conservation.  The MS degree program is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in marine environmental science and policy and management, with a solid foundation in research theory and application. The PhD program is more intensive, allowing for the elaboration of research and quantitative skills with the goal of developing expertise in specialized areas of environmental science and policy. Both MS and PhD students work closely with a faculty advisor and ideally MS and PhD applicants identify a faculty advisor and discuss potential projects in advance of applying.

MS and PhD applicants must possess a BS or BA in any, relevant academic field. The GRE score is not required for admission. You may optionally submit your GRE score, but not all faculty will consider this information. Individual faculty members may consider GRE scores as part of a holistic evaluation of the candidates. Applicants whose first language is not English must pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a score of at least 550. 

Environmental Science and Policy (EVR) Tracks 

Coastal Zone Management

The track in Coastal Zone Management will introduce participants to the legal and governance frameworks in this increasingly important discipline. Coursework will integrate topics such as coastal fisheries management, marine protected areas, port management, tourism development, environmental impact assessment, and oil exploration.

Exploration Science

Exploration Science is the applied practice and study of field research using a wide variety of methods, technologies, and approaches to drive question-based scientific endeavors. This field fosters scientific inquiry and the application of expedition skills within a context that acknowledges the cultural and ethical implications of exploration

Fisheries Management and Conservation

The Fisheries Management and Conservation track is a unique, academic program that allows students to develop the professional skills required to be a fishery scientist with curriculum options in various relevant areas of interest, such as fishery management, fishery surveys, and quantitative fisheries.

Marine Conservation

The Professional Master Degree in Marine Conservation provides students with advanced training in both the theoretical aspects of marine science and conservation, as well as the practical aspects required to begin a career in this field. From sharks to sea turtles and debris-free oceans to outreach and education.