English Program of Environmental Earth Science for a Sustainable Society (EPEES)
Introduction
EPEES (English Program of Environmental Earth Science for a Sustainable Society) is designed to provide an international learning environment in which students can complete their degrees in English. The Graduate School of Environmental Science, Hokkaido University, offers courses and research supervision in English for both the Master’s and Doctoral programs, except for a certain course. Students can therefore obtain a degree entirely in English.
Many international students are currently studying at the Graduate School. Students can pursue advanced environmental science and conduct cutting-edge research in the laboratories of Hokkaido University without Japanese language proficiency. However, in cases of fieldwork or practical research conducted outside the university, daily conversational Japanese may be required. Applicants who intend to pursue research in such areas are advised to consult their prospective supervisor about the level of Japanese language proficiency realistically required in their specific field of study.
Divisions and Courses covered by EPEES
Division of Environmental Science Development:
- Course in Human and Ecological Systems
- Course in Environmental Adaptation Science
- Course in Practical Science for the Environment
- Course in Global Environmental Management
Division of Earth System Science:
- Course in Biogeochemistry
- Course in Atmosphere-Ocean and Climate Dynamics (Doctoral program only)
- Course in Cryosphere Science
Division of Biosphere Science:
- Course in Plant Ecology and Biodiversity Science
- Course in Ecological Genetics
- Course in Molecular Biology
- Course in Animal Ecology
- Course in Marine Biogeochemistry and Biology
- Course in Aquatic Biology
- Course in Forest Field Science
- Course in Agro-Ecosystem Science
Division of Environmental Materials Science:
- Course in Biomaterials Chemistry
- Course in Environmental Nano-Materials
- Course in Molecular Photonics and Electronics Science
- Course in Environmental Catalytic Chemistry
*Course in Atmosphere-Ocean and Climate Dynamics (Master’s program) is not available in EPEES.
Classes offered in English
Classes offered in English at the Graduate School of Environmental Science (As of April 2026)
In addition to the classes listed above, students may also take bilingual-format courses at the Graduate School of Environmental Science, as well as English-taught Inter-Graduate School Classes open to all graduate students at Hokkaido University, regardless of their field of specialization.
How to Apply
All students enrolled at the Graduate School are eligible to participate in the EPEES, and no additional application is required.
Prospective students are advised to refer to the “STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO ENTRY”, and follow the procedures to apply for admission to the Graduate School.













