Doane University

What you'll study

The programme combines a liberal-arts core with disciplinary coursework and experiential learning in natural resources science. Typical subject areas include ecology, conservation biology, soil science, hydrology, wildlife management, restoration ecology and environmental policy. Students build quantitative and technical skills through courses in statistics, experimental design and data analysis, and they learn spatial analysis with GIS and remote sensing.

Instruction emphasises hands-on methods: field sampling, laboratory techniques, water and soil testing, population monitoring and habitat assessment. Students complete a sequence of field methods courses and a research practicum that culminates in a capstone research project or senior thesis, supervised by faculty. The degree also includes opportunities for internships with government agencies, non-profit conservation groups, landowners and private firms.

• Core ecological and conservation courses: community and ecosystem ecology, conservation biology, restoration ecology
• Technical skills: GIS and remote sensing, environmental statistics, survey and sampling methods
• Applied sciences: soil science, watershed hydrology, wildlife ecology
• Research and synthesis: research methods, senior capstone or thesis, field practicum
• Professional development: internship placement, scientific communication and ethics, policy and resource management

Entry requirements

Doane seeks students with a strong foundation in college-preparatory subjects. Typical requirements include a secondary school diploma or equivalent with evidence of coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics. Admissions decisions consider the overall academic record, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Transfer students present college transcripts and may receive credit for prior coursework or experiential learning.

International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and meet Doane's English-language proficiency criteria as part of the application. Applicants without extensive laboratory or field experience can still be competitive if they show clear interest in natural resources and the motivation to pursue hands-on learning.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of professional roles in conservation, natural resource management and environmental science. Common career paths include conservation technician, natural resource manager, wildlife or fisheries technician, environmental consultant, GIS or field data analyst, restoration specialist and research assistant. Alumni also pursue positions with state and federal natural resource agencies, conservation non-profits, land trusts, environmental consulting firms and agricultural organisations.

The programme also prepares students for graduate study in ecology, natural resource management, environmental science, public policy and related fields. Practical experience gained through internships and capstone research strengthens applications for both employment and further study.

Why study at Doane University

Doane offers a small-college environment with close faculty mentorship and abundant opportunities for undergraduate research and field experience. Class sizes allow for personalised advising and collaborative projects with faculty who are active in applied research and local conservation initiatives.

The university emphasises experiential learning: students regularly conduct fieldwork on and off campus, complete internships through Doane's professional networks, and present research in regional forums. Facilities supporting the programme include teaching laboratories, field equipment and access to nearby natural areas used for ecological study. The combination of a liberal-arts education, practical training and community connections makes Doane a strong choice for students aiming to work in natural resources conservation or to continue to advanced study.