The Doctoral Program in Marine and Environmental Sciences at University of the Ryukyus (Graduate School of Engineering and Science, Science Course) is a research-intensive doctoral degree (typically three years of full-time study) that integrates advanced marine science, environmental science, and ecosystem research to prepare students as expert researchers and leaders in understanding and solving complex environmental and marine-related challenges. Within this program, students conduct original research under faculty supervision in areas such as environmental science of island archipelago systems, environmental material physics, life environmental science, marine biology, functions of island ecosystems, marine chemistry, and tropical biology, reflecting the university’s emphasis on leveraging its subtropical and island marine environment to study natural and human-impacted processes at local and regional scales. Graduates earn a Doctor of Science, Doctor of Philosophy, or Doctor of Engineering degree (depending on research focus and course requirements) upon successful completion and defense of a doctoral dissertation that contributes new knowledge to their field. The program aims to equip researchers with interdisciplinary scientific expertise applicable to marine ecosystem conservation, sustainable resource management, environmental assessment, and related scientific and policy leadership roles while also supporting international collaboration and research, particularly through initiatives like the Leadership for ASEAN Marine Environments and Resources (LA MER) initiative that offers English-taught research opportunities and supports students working on global marine environment issues.

NOTE: The university may have additional program-specific eligibility requirements.
It is recommended to verify these on the official university website.