The climate change and air quality track aims to train students in the physical and biological processes associated with global climate change and air quality, and to provide them with the necessary policy background to be able to understand the implications of global warming and climate change. Courses cover foundations of climatology and atmospheric science, air quality, hydrology, interaction between vegetation and the atmosphere, biogeography and evolution, biomes, and environmental policy making. This track would prepare students for a broad range of environmental and policy positions in the public and private sectors, such as the California Air Resource Board, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, various county Air Quality Management Districts, environmental consulting firms, and graduate school in a broad range of environmental topics.

The climate change and air quality track aims to train students in the physical and biological processes associated with global climate change and air quality, and to provide them with the necessary policy background to be able to understand the implications of global warming and climate change. Courses cover foundations of climatology and atmospheric science, air quality, hydrology, interaction between vegetation and the atmosphere, biogeography and evolution, biomes, and environmental policy making. This track would prepare students for a broad range of environmental and policy positions in the public and private sectors, such as the California Air Resource Board, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, various county Air Quality Management Districts, environmental consulting firms, and graduate school in a broad range of environmental topics.

The Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation Track gives students a broad ecological training in preparation for careers in field ecology, or as biodiversity or conservation specialists. Beyond general environmental science the course provides a comprehensive training in different areas of ecology, some knowledge of organisms and their environments, and relevant conservation and policy courses. Courses include upper division statistics, physical environmental sciences, public policy, evolution, genetics, biogeography, and a field course for hands on field experience of hypothesis testing in nature. UC-Davis has more ecologists than any other institution in the World, and this track draws on this rich human resource.

The Environmental Data Science track focuses on applying geospatial technology and data science for understanding and solving complex environmental issues across the Earth system components. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for a growing job market in need of interdisciplinary professionals with geospatial and analytical skills. The training includes the concepts and fundamentals on data science and remote sensing, and computer-based hands on experience in geographical information systems (GIS), spatial analysis, and image processing. Students will be prepared with knowledge and core analytical skill sets for a broad range of professional paths geared towards data driven solutions, in industry, non-profit organizations, state and government agencies, and academia.

The geospatial information science track introduces students to computer-based analysis of geographic data and the theory and practice of aerial and satellite imagery, GIS, and spatial analysis, applied to natural resource assessment and monitoring human impacts on the environment. Student internships are encouraged and we can assist with locating an appropriate internship program.  Graduates will be well equipped for land and resource management positions in industry, non-profit and government agencies, and for advanced studies in geography, ecology, environmental sciences and management.

The Natural Resource Management track has a strong social science focus. It assumes that most environmental problems are caused by mistakes in human behavior, and that better scientific information is but one of many factors affecting our ability to solve environmental problems. This track is geared towards those who are interested in working in policy-oriented roles in environmental affairs. Typical career tracks include working for federal, state or local natural resources agencies, environmental consulting firms, governmental liaison offices of private corporations, or non-profit organizations addressing environmental issues.

The soils and biogeochemistry track examines processes that govern the composition of the natural environment and the cycles of matter and energy through time and space. This track teaches scientific principles, ranging from the molecular to global scales, for managing soil, water and plant resources. Courses includes land use, GIS, remote sensing, soil and ecosystem management, nutrient management, soil and water pollution remediation and global change. Graduates are qualified for managerial and technical positions in advising, planning, land appraisal, research, and teaching. The track also provides excellent preparation for graduate programs in soil science, environmental toxicology, hydrology, ecology, and plant sciences.

The watershed science track trains students in the principles of hydrology, climate as it relates to water, water law, public policy, and links to ecology and soils. Water is a key resource in the western US and in much of the developed World. Watersheds are the natural geographic unit for water management and science, and encompass issues like water quality, water supply, flood management, biodiversity, and climate change. Students in this track are likely to pursue careers in water and watershed management, environmental consulting, government agencies, and environmental non-profits. The track is also very good preparation for graduate school in ecology, hydrology, environmental policy, or especially interdisciplinary environmental management programs.

The watershed science track trains students in the principles of hydrology, climate as it relates to water, water law, public policy, and links to ecology and soils. Water is a key resource in the western US and in much of the developed World. Watersheds are the natural geographic unit for water management and science, and encompass issues like water quality, water supply, flood management, biodiversity, and climate change. Students in this track are likely to pursue careers in water and watershed management, environmental consulting, government agencies, and environmental non-profits. The track is also very good preparation for graduate school in ecology, hydrology, environmental policy, or especially interdisciplinary environmental management programs.