South SFV Today

The Environmental Social Sciences Department at Stanford University has announced the launch of its new doctoral degree program. This initiative allows students to pursue a PhD in Environmental Behavioral Sciences or Global Environmental Policy, under the guidance of interdisciplinary faculty from various fields such as economics, sociology, psychology, and more.

William Barnett, department chair, highlighted the unique approach of the program: “It’s a very diverse group of faculty and that makes it incredibly exciting for incoming graduate students.” He added that the program aims to create new combinations of knowledge as students explore sustainability themes across social sciences.

The department was initially launched in 2022 and became an official department in December 2023. It now includes over two dozen faculty members, with recent hires expanding expertise in areas like climate effects on human migration and societal barriers to addressing climate change.

Lynn Hildemann, senior associate dean for education, emphasized the importance of social sciences in achieving educational goals: “Strength in the social sciences is essential for the educational mission of our school.”

Nicole Ardoin, an associate professor, described how students will not be tied to a specific advisor but will have opportunities to develop interdisciplinary research questions. The department's goal is to prepare graduates for diverse roles in consulting, government, nonprofits, policy-making, and academia.

Barnett expressed optimism about the future impact of graduates: “Young people see that and want to be a part of that revolution.” The program seeks to equip students with skills necessary for sustainable production and consumption practices.

Applications are currently open for admission into Fall 2025 for Environmental Behavioral Sciences. The Global Environmental Policy doctoral program will start accepting applications next fall for the 2026-27 academic year.