MA Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at University of California, Santa Cruz

Programme overview

The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology MA prepares students to complete graduate-level research, usually more directed and shorter-term than doctoral work, ending in a thesis. Students share some coursework with PhD students but do not take comprehensive or qualifying exams.

Faculty: Physical and Biological Sciences Division | Department: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology | Study mode: full-time | Location: Santa Cruz, CA, United States

What you will study

Students take Scientific Skills, Advanced Organismal Biology, Evolutionary Ecology and Foundations in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, a statistics course and two graduate electives within two years, with independent study each quarter. A thesis, formal defense and public seminar are required.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

UC Santa Cruz graduate admission: bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited university awarded before the entry quarter, a B average or better in the last two years of undergraduate coursework, and demonstrated English proficiency. Applicants whose first language is not English: TOEFL iBT minimum 83 (4.0 on the 2026 scale) or IELTS Academic overall 7; waiver may be requested by applicants with a four-year bachelor's degree from an English-speaking institution. GRE General and Subject tests not required. Transcripts and three letters of recommendation (up to five accepted). Programme materials: resume, statement of purpose, personal history statement. Application deadline: December 10 (EEB MA/PhD). Application fee $135 domestic, $155 international.

Domestic applicants: USD 13,722 a year (2026-27). California resident graduate tuition; excludes Student Services Fee, campus fees and health insurance Source

International applicants: USD 15,102 a year (2026-27). Nonresident Supplemental Tuition, charged in addition to the 13,722 tuition for non-California residents and international students Source

Explore more study programmes

STEM