New for Fall 2026
Understand Earth’s Systems. Shape Environmental Solutions.
Turn your curiosity about the planet into the scientific skills needed to address real environmental challenges.
The B.S. in Environmental Systems Science combines biology, chemistry, physics, geology and ecology to explore how Earth’s air, water, land and living systems interact—and how people are changing them. Through field and laboratory work, data analysis, GIS and remote sensing, and systems modeling, students investigate climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and resource management.
Interdisciplinary by Design
What You Will Study
Build a scientific understanding of connected environmental systems while developing practical tools for analyzing change.
Earth Systems
Examine the interactions among Earth’s atmosphere, water, land, ecosystems and living organisms.
Scientific Tools
Develop experience in field and laboratory methods, data analysis, GIS, remote sensing and systems modeling.
Environmental Challenges
Investigate climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and the sustainable management of resources.
Learn by Doing
Fieldwork, Laboratory Research and Data
Connect classroom learning with hands-on investigation. The program prepares students to evaluate complex environmental questions using scientific observations, analytical techniques and quantitative approaches.
One Degree, Two Academic Communities
Department of Earth Sciences
Build expertise in Earth processes, field science, environmental change and the physical systems that shape our planet.
Program in Environmental Studies
Connect natural-science training with a broader community focused on environmental questions and solutions.
Courses are drawn from across USC’s natural sciences, giving students opportunities to participate in both academic communities.
Career and Graduate Preparation
Graduate prepared to inform evidence-based solutions in environmental consulting, government, nonprofit organizations, sustainability and research—or pursue advanced study in environmental and Earth sciences.
Questions About the Program?
Contact Faculty Lead Prof. Josh West at joshwest@usc.edu. For academic advising and support, visit USC Dornsife Advising.
Program Details
Review the Full Degree Requirements
Explore the official curriculum and current requirements in the USC Catalogue.