University of Minnesota

What you'll study

The programme emphasises core concepts in ecology and evolution alongside practical training in systematics, population biology and quantitative methods. You will take foundational courses in organismal biology, genetics, ecology and evolutionary theory, and progress to specialised modules such as community and landscape ecology, behavioural ecology, phylogenetics and conservation biology.

• Laboratory and field techniques: microscopy, molecular methods (DNA barcoding, basic molecular ecology), population sampling, mark–recapture and experimental design.
• Quantitative skills: biostatistics, population modelling, ecological statistics, R programming and data analysis applied to ecological datasets.
• Systematics and evolution: phylogenetic methods, comparative approaches, speciation and macroevolutionary patterns.
• Applied topics: conservation practice, restoration ecology, wildlife management and environmental impact assessment.
• Capstone and research opportunities: independent research projects, senior thesis or honours capstone with faculty supervision, and participation in ongoing research at campus facilities and field stations.

Course delivery combines lectures, laboratory practicals, field courses (including multi‑day excursions), seminars and research placements. Electives allow students to tailor the degree toward molecular ecology, conservation, or quantitative population biology.

Entry requirements

Typical entry expects successful secondary school completion with strong preparation in biology and mathematics. Chemistry is recommended. Typical applicants present a competitive academic record with evidence of quantitative ability and science coursework. Admissions decisions consider whole‑application materials including personal statement and references.

• Academic background: strong grades in biology and mathematics; chemistry recommended but not always mandatory.
• Skills and experience: demonstrated interest in ecological or evolutionary biology — for example through school projects, volunteering, or field experience — is advantageous.
• International applicants: required to meet the university's English language proficiency standards; specific test scores or exemptions are set by the university.
• Additional notes: some students may transfer in from related programmes or begin in a broader biology major before concentrating on this field; check departmental guidance for articulation and advising.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers in science, policy and industry. Many proceed to postgraduate study (MSc or PhD) in ecology, evolution, conservation biology or related fields. Others move directly into professional roles that apply ecological and quantitative skills.

• Research and academia: laboratory or field research technician, research assistant, progression to postgraduate research positions.
• Conservation and natural resource management: conservation scientist, habitat restoration practitioner, wildlife or fisheries biologist, park and reserve management.
• Environmental consultancy and government: environmental impact assessment, biodiversity monitoring, policy advising and regulatory roles.
• Data and analytical roles: ecological modeller, bioinformatician, GIS specialist and data analyst for NGOs or private sector.
• Public engagement and collections: education officer, outreach specialist, museum curator or collections manager.

Why study at University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota offers access to extensive research infrastructure and regional ecosystems that support hands‑on training. Students benefit from field stations and outdoor labs that enable long‑term ecological study, as well as university museum collections and laboratory facilities for molecular and morphological research.

• Field and research resources: opportunities to work at established field stations and participate in long‑term ecological projects across diverse habitats from lakes and forests to prairie remnants.
• Interdisciplinary environment: collaboration with faculty across biological sciences, environmental sciences, statistics and policy, providing pathways into applied conservation and quantitative careers.
• Hands‑on learning: emphasis on field courses, undergraduate research placements and mentorship that prepare students for both employment and graduate study.
• Career support: dedicated advising, internships with regional agencies and NGOs, and networks that connect students with graduate programmes and employers.