Eastern Mennonite University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational courses in biology, chemistry and environmental science with applied subject matter in ecology, watershed science and land management. Students take core modules such as Conservation Biology, Ecosystem Ecology, Field Botany, Wildlife Management, Soil Science and Freshwater Ecology, alongside quantitative and research-focused courses including Biostatistics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Research Methods.

Field and lab work are emphasised throughout the degree: courses include regular fieldtrips to local habitats, stream and forest monitoring, laboratory analyses, and the use of GIS and remote sensing tools. The curriculum typically culminates in a year-long senior research project or capstone practicum in which students design and carry out original field research or an applied conservation project under faculty supervision.

Electives allow specialisation in areas such as restoration ecology, agroecology, environmental policy, climate adaptation and sustainability science. Internships with regional land trusts, government natural resource agencies, non-profit conservation organisations and environmental consultancies are integrated into the programme to build practical experience and professional networks.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school completion credential or equivalent with solid preparation in science and mathematics. Recommended high‑school courses include biology, chemistry, algebra or precalculus and, where available, environmental science. Admissions decisions consider academic record, letters of recommendation and an applicant statement outlining interest in natural resources and conservation.

Transfer students are evaluated on previous college coursework; students with prior lab or field experience in ecology or environmental science may receive advanced standing. International applicants must present an equivalent secondary credential and demonstrate proficiency in English through accepted tests or documented prior study in English.

Career prospects

• Ecological technician or field biologist conducting surveys, habitat assessments and species monitoring for government agencies or NGOs.
• Conservation planner or land steward working with land trusts, parks services or natural areas programs to manage and restore habitats.
• Environmental consultant supporting impact assessments, permitting and remediation projects.
• GIS analyst or data specialist applying spatial analysis to resource management and conservation planning.
• Roles in watershed management, fisheries and wildlife management, restoration ecology and sustainable agriculture.
• Preparation for graduate study in ecology, environmental science, natural resources management or related professional degrees (e.g. environmental policy, hydrology).

Why study at Eastern Mennonite University

Eastern Mennonite University offers a small, community-oriented learning environment with an emphasis on experiential education and ethical stewardship of the land. The university’s location in the Shenandoah Valley provides easy access to a wide range of ecosystems—streams, forests, karst landscapes and agricultural lands—that serve as outdoor classrooms for field courses and student research.

Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, opportunities for undergraduate-led research and community-engaged projects with local conservation partners. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach weaves scientific training with practical skills—GIS, statistics and communication—preparing graduates to work effectively with landowners, agencies and non-profits. For students seeking a values-driven programme that pairs rigorous natural science with hands-on conservation practice, Eastern Mennonite provides a focused and supportive setting.