Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

This programme combines ecological science, resource management and research methods to prepare students for careers in conservation and applied environmental science. Coursework typically covers ecology, conservation biology, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystem dynamics, soil science, wildlife management, and natural resource policy. You will develop practical skills in field techniques (vegetation sampling, wildlife surveys, stream assessment), laboratory analysis, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis, and statistical approaches to ecological data.

• Core science modules — general biology, ecology, environmental chemistry and statistics, providing the scientific foundations for conservation work.
• Applied conservation modules — habitat management, restoration ecology, conservation planning and species monitoring methods.
• Research and skills training — experimental design, ecological field methods, GIS and remote sensing, and data analysis with statistical software.
• Policy and social context — natural resource policy, environmental law, community-based conservation and the human dimensions of resource management.
• Capstone research or practicum — an independent research project, internship or applied conservation placement with an external partner, integrating classroom learning with field work and real-world problem solving.

Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions, supervised fieldwork at local and regional sites, seminars and a research or practicum project. Students are encouraged to take elective modules in related areas such as environmental justice, sustainability, urban ecology or public communication of science.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong performance in science subjects at secondary level, typically including biology and chemistry or environmental science. Admission usually requires a recognised secondary-school qualification and evidence of academic readiness for a science degree; international applicants should present equivalent qualifications. Schools may also consider overall academic record, a personal statement outlining interest in conservation and research, and one or more academic references.

Successful candidates often have some practical experience or demonstrated interest in field biology, conservation volunteering, or environmental clubs, although this is not always a formal requirement. Students without specific science prerequisites may be admitted with the expectation they will complete foundational modules in the first year. As with most US universities, transfer students are evaluated on college transcripts and course equivalencies.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers in a wide range of conservation and natural resource roles in the public, private and non‑profit sectors. Common pathways include:

• Conservation scientist or ecologist working for government agencies, NGOs or consulting firms.
• Field technician or research assistant in universities, museums or environmental research institutes.
• GIS and spatial analyst supporting resource monitoring, land-use planning and habitat assessment.
• Restoration ecologist or habitat manager working on wetland, prairie or forest restoration projects.
• Environmental consultant addressing permitting, impact assessment and mitigation for development projects.
• Further study — graduates frequently progress to MSc or PhD programmes in ecology, conservation biology, natural resources management or environmental science, or professional training in related policy and planning fields.

Internships, practicum placements and community partnerships organised through the university provide practical experience and local professional networks, which are important for entering the workforce in this sector.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola’s location in Chicago offers access to a rich variety of urban, freshwater and regional ecosystems for hands-on learning and research. The university’s liberal arts and Jesuit traditions emphasise ethical stewardship, social responsibility and community engagement, which shape how conservation science is taught and applied.

Students benefit from small class sizes in upper-level courses, opportunities for faculty-mentored research, and partnerships with local parks, environmental organisations and government agencies for internships and applied projects. The programme’s combination of fieldwork, laboratory training and quantitative skills prepares graduates to work on both regional conservation challenges and broader research questions.

Through experiential learning and community-focused projects, Loyola encourages graduates to approach natural resource problems with scientific rigour, an understanding of social dimensions, and a commitment to sustainable, equitable stewardship of ecosystems.