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Environmental Data Science - MDS

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Environmental Science & Management Graduate Master of Environmental Data Science

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Learning Outcomes

Program Type

Master's Degree

Program Description

Through this 11-month program, Master of Environmental Data Science (MEDS) students gain data science skills including spatial analysis, environmental modeling, machine learning, and data visualization, and they learn how to apply them to share compelling scientific narratives. The MEDS program culminates in a capstone project that provides real-world experience of applying data science skills to an environmental issue. The MEDS program is ideal for students with an educational background in environmental disciplines; a background in computer science, statistics, or data science is not required. Designed by environmental data scientists, the MEDS program is a joint partnership with the National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS). MEDS students graduate with real, applicable experience and an expanded professional network.

Featured Courses

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Graduate and Professional Pathways

  • Public sector (local, state, and federal government)

  • Private sector (corporate and consulting)

  • Research and education

  • Data Science and Data Analytics

  • Data Visualization

  • Technology

Top Employers

  • U.S. Federal Government (e.g., USGS, NREL)

  • Corporate/Consulting (e.g., Geosyntec, Rincon, Dudek, ERM)

  • Research/Education (e.g., NCEAS) + NonProfit (e.g., Conservational International, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Great Basin Institute)

Program Highlights

  • Our courses take place both on UCSB’s main campus and in downtown Santa Barbara at The National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS), a center that hosts working groups of scientists from around the world. MEDS students have the unique opportunity to learn from and engage with open environmental data science practitioners at NCEAS.

  • Our students participate in small-group, client-driven Capstone Projects that provide real-world experience for students to advance environmental objectives with data-driven solutions for a business, public agency, or non-profit organization.

  • We offer robust career support. MEDS students receive career development training during and after their degrees, and alumni have the opportunity to access Bren career resources and networking tools.

Related Disciplines

  • Environmental Studies

  • Statistics and Data Science

  • Biology

  • Earth Science

  • Mathematics

Associated Interests

  • Data science and data analytics

  • Computer programming

  • Remote sensing

  • Machine learning

  • Data visualization

  • Environmental justice