If you are a current on-campus undergraduate student at the University of Pennsylvania, you may begin the Master of Environmental Studies program while completing your undergraduate program via the submatriculation program. Please note that undergraduates in online programs are not eligible for this option. In most cases, submatriculation will allow you to finish both the undergraduate and graduate programs in five years. Students may enter the MES program as submatriculates between their first semester junior year and first semester senior year.
Submatriculation admission requirements
- You may apply as early as second semester sophomore year and as late as second semester junior year. Students about to enter their last semester of their undergraduate career at Penn are not eligible for submatriculation but may apply for regular admission to the Master of Environmental Studies program.
- Applicants must have a minimum 3.2 GPA, but higher GPAs are preferred.
- Students in any on-campus Penn undergraduate school and major may apply; you do not need an undergraduate major in Environmental Studies, Geology or Biology for the program.
- You are strongly encouraged to take ENVS 1000 Intro to Environmental Science before submatriculation.
- If you are interested in submatriculating, you should meet with both your undergraduate academic advisor and the Master of Environmental Studies Program Director as early as possible. They will help you determine whether this program is a good fit for you and confirm your eligibility.
- SAS students accepted into the program will need to complete an additional submatriculation plan signed by the Program Director of the Master of Environmental Studies, your undergraduate major advisor, and the College Office Advisor prior to your enrollment in the program. All other students should consult with their school to determine what forms need to be completed.
Double-counting courses
Master of Environmental Studies submatriculates may have four courses double-counted toward both the undergraduate and graduate programs. All double-counted courses must be approved by both your undergraduate and graduate academic advisors.
- Double-counted courses must be graduate level (typically numbered 5000 or above).
- Double-counted courses may be from any School at Penn. However, they must be graduate level and approved for the Master of Environmental Studies curriculum.
