University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

This four‑year programme combines foundational natural science with applied conservation and research methods. Core topics include ecology, conservation biology, wildlife and fisheries management, forest and soil science, hydrology and watershed management, and environmental policy. Students gain quantitative skills through courses in statistics, spatial analysis and geographic information systems (GIS), and develop laboratory and field techniques for sampling, monitoring and data analysis.

Programme structure typically includes general education requirements plus major coursework, elective specialisms and required experiential components. Practical elements include field trips, lab practicums, semester‑long field courses, and a capstone research project or honours thesis supervised by faculty. Internships with state and federal agencies, non‑profits and private firms are strongly encouraged and often integrated with course credit.

• Ecology and conservation biology
• Forest ecology and management
• Wildlife and fisheries conservation
• Soil science and land use
• Hydrology and watershed science
• GIS, remote sensing and quantitative methods
• Environmental policy, law and natural resource economics
• Field methods, laboratory techniques and research practicum

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed a secondary school programme with a strong academic record and preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Recommended background includes courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus or calculus) and laboratory experience where available. UMass Amherst considers the overall strength of the transcript, letters of recommendation, personal statement and any relevant extracurricular or work experience.

Standard admissions pathways accept domestic and international credentials; applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications. Prospective students transferring from other institutions should provide college transcripts and may be eligible for transfer credit for relevant coursework and field experience.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in conservation, natural resource management and environmental research. Typical career destinations include positions as conservation scientists, natural resource managers, wildlife and fisheries technicians, restoration ecologists, land and water resource planners, environmental consultants and GIS specialists. Many graduates move into entry‑level research assistant roles with academic or governmental labs, or pursue postgraduate training (master’s or PhD) in ecology, conservation science, forestry or environmental policy.

The practical emphasis of the programme also supports employment with state and federal agencies, regional land trusts, conservation NGOs, environmental consulting firms and private landowners, and provides a solid foundation for careers in environmental education and outreach.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst offers access to strong multidisciplinary resources for natural resource education and research, including faculty with active research programmes, campus laboratories and regional field stations. The programme benefits from hands‑on learning opportunities and connections with state agencies, cooperative extension services and local conservation organisations across New England.

Students benefit from the Stockbridge School of Agriculture’s applied focus and from being part of a large research university that provides elective courses across ecology, environmental science, geospatial technologies and policy. Small class sizes for many upper‑level and field courses, dedicated faculty mentorship on capstone projects, and an established network of alumni and internship partners help students build practical skills and professional connections in the conservation sector.