Doctoral (PhD)

The goal of the SEAS PhD in Environment and Sustainability is to train the next generation of research leaders for impact in our field. The Doctoral Program develops the creative abilities of exceptional students, training them for independent work that contributes to original research and scholarship at the forefront of their chosen fields. SEAS PhD students will become leaders in research, teaching and training others, and developing the scientific knowledge base needed to formulate policies and practices that contribute to societal goals in the field of environment and sustainability.  Uniquely, the SEAS Doctoral Program has a sharp focus on impact, with student research aspiring to contribute to solving real world problems. 

The SEAS PhD in Environment and Sustainability is a highly flexible program. Students choose between a specialized course of study or one that broadly addresses complex, interdisciplinary issues. Each student's course of study is tailored to their scholarly interests and guided by their faculty advisor and committee. Broad areas of specialization reflect the expertise and research interests of faculty.

The SEAS PhD in Environment and Sustainability is a research-based degree. Emphasis is placed on developing the skills to plan, implement, evaluate, and communicate original research. Students are required to take the following courses: 

• Three credits of Research Paradigms (EAS 741) taken within the first three terms of study. This course offers a conceptual and critical treatment of issues relevant to doing research in environment and sustainability. Topics addressed include the nature of science and criteria for "quality research"; characteristics of the scientific community; research value systems and ethics; and considerations of interdisciplinary research. The course is intended to broaden the students' perspective of the diversity of research frameworks through class discussions stimulated by assigned readings, as well as workshop problem-solving sessions and occasional guest lectures. 

• Two analytic courses. Doctoral students are required to take at least two courses (400-level or above) that focus on tools of analysis, research design, research evaluation, and/or data collection methods. The areas of analytics appropriate to each student will vary and should be determined in consultation with the advisor. 

• Doctoral education at the University of Michigan recognizes the importance of intellectual breadth beyond the student’s field of specialization. Accordingly, Rackham requires doctoral students to complete 3 hours of graduate-level coursework with a grade of B- or better in a field other than their own. 

Beyond the required classes listed above, students work in close collaboration with their faculty advisor to develop a tailored set of courses that build competency in relevant theoretical and empirical areas. Additionally, students are required to complete training in the responsible conduct of research and scholarship.  

Program Milestones

1. Upon admission, you are assigned an advisor and faculty member(s) to serve on your Interim Guidance Committee.
2. In your first year, you prepare a "course of study" document that will guide your coursework and scholarly development.
3. By the end of your second year, you will complete your qualifying exam and advance to doctoral candidacy.
4. By the end of your fifth semester, you will submit your full dissertation proposal.
5. By the end of your fifth year, you will defend your dissertation.

Your PhD in Environment and Sustainability will be granted by the Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies. 

It is strongly recommended that PhD applicants contact SEAS faculty members prior to applying. It is important to establish a connection with faculty members to discuss mutual research areas. These interactions are helpful in determining fit with our faculty and SEAS community. Faculty research profiles and their contact information are found here. Applications are submitted directly to the Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies.  

The SEAS Doctoral Handbook provides key information, such as a timeline and outline of expectations and requirements. For more information, contact [email protected].