University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, intensive research training and sustained field experience. Core subject areas typically include conservation biology, ecosystem ecology, restoration ecology, landscape ecology, hydrology and natural resource policy. Students also take advanced quantitative classes in statistics, experimental design, spatial analysis, geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing to support data‑driven research.

Typical elements of the degree programme include:

• Coursework in natural resources concepts and methods (for example conservation theory, population dynamics, disturbance ecology).
• Quantitative training (applied statistics, modelling, spatial analysis, Bayesian methods).
• Specialist topical seminars (e.g. restoration practice, socio‑ecological systems, conservation genetics, freshwater ecology).
• Fieldwork and long‑term ecological monitoring opportunities, drawing on nearby research sites and long‑term data sets.
• Research rotations or collaborative projects in the first year, depending on the supervising group.
• Qualifying/Comprehensive examination to demonstrate readiness for dissertation research.
• Independent dissertation research under the supervision of a faculty advisor and advisory committee.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong bachelor’s degree in ecology, environmental science, biology, natural resources, geography, forestry, hydrology, or a closely related field; many successful applicants also hold a relevant master’s degree. Typical expectations include:

• Strong academic record in relevant undergraduate and, if applicable, graduate coursework.
• Substantial research experience demonstrated by a research statement, thesis, publications or letters of recommendation.
• A clear statement of research interests that aligns with faculty expertise and available research facilities.
• Two or three academic references who can speak to research potential and scholarly preparedness.
• English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, as demonstrated by an approved test or other institutional criteria.

Some applicants may submit standardised test scores if required or recommended by a specific department; prospective students should check the department admissions page for current testing policies. Admission is competitive and often linked to faculty availability and potential funding through teaching or research assistantships.

Career prospects

Graduates of a PhD in Natural Resources Conservation and Research pursue a variety of careers that apply advanced research skills to environmental problems. Common career paths include:

• Academic research and teaching (postdoctoral positions, faculty roles in ecology, conservation and environmental science).
• Government and federal agencies (natural resource managers, research scientists or policy analysts in agencies such as USGS, EPA, state natural resource departments and land management agencies).
• Non‑governmental organisations and conservation NGOs (science directorates, restoration and conservation planning).
• Environmental consulting and applied ecology (ecological assessment, restoration project design, impact assessment).
• Industry roles that require ecological expertise and quantitative skills (natural capital assessment, ecological data science, sustainability units).
• Science communication, conservation policy and stakeholder engagement roles bridging research and practice.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

CU Boulder offers strong interdisciplinary strengths in environmental and natural sciences, with faculty working across ecology, hydrology, remote sensing and environmental policy. The university hosts internationally recognised research centres relevant to natural resources research, offering access to long‑term ecological data sets and collaborative networks.

Students benefit from proximity to diverse ecosystems in the Rocky Mountains and Front Range for mountain, alpine and watershed studies, and from established field sites and long‑term research programs. CU Boulder provides well‑equipped laboratories, GIS and remote sensing facilities, and partnerships with institutes and federal labs that broaden research opportunities. Graduate students commonly secure support through research and teaching assistantships and work closely with faculty mentors to develop applied, policy‑relevant research that addresses contemporary conservation challenges.