PhD Environment and Sustainability at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Programme overview

The SEAS PhD in Environment and Sustainability trains research leaders with a focus on impact and on solving real-world problems. The programme is highly flexible, tailored to each student's interests by a faculty advisor and committee. The degree is granted by the Rackham Graduate School.

Faculty: School for Environment and Sustainability | Department: SEAS Doctoral Program | Duration: Five-year funding package; dissertation defence by end of year five | Intake: Fall (deadline December 1, 2026 for Fall 2027) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Ann Arbor, MI, United States

What you will study

Required courses are EAS 741 Research Paradigms (3 credits, within the first three terms), two analytic courses at the 400 level or above, and 3 credits of graduate coursework outside the student's field, plus responsible-conduct-of-research training. Milestones: course of study in year one, qualifying exam by end of year two, dissertation proposal by the end of the fifth semester, defence by the end of year five.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applications go through Rackham by December 1, 2026 (11:59 p.m. ET). The GRE is not required or accepted, and there is no fee for domestic applicants. The checklist includes transcripts, test scores, resume, essays and writing samples, and recommenders. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact SEAS faculty before applying.

Intake: Fall

Duration: Five-year funding package; dissertation defence by end of year five

Apply through the official page: https://rackham.umich.edu/admissions/applying/

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