University of San Diego

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in ecology, environmental science and quantitative methods, with a strong emphasis on applied conservation and hands-on fieldwork. Core subject areas typically include:

• Ecology and Conservation Biology – community and population ecology, species interactions, biodiversity and conservation principles.
• Field Methods and Restoration Ecology – survey techniques, sampling design, habitat restoration practices and monitoring protocols.
• Geospatial Analysis and GIS – remote sensing, spatial data analysis and mapping for natural resource assessment.
• Soil and Hydrology – soil science, watershed processes and water-resource management relevant to terrestrial and coastal systems.
• Statistics and Research Design – statistical inference, experimental design and data analysis for ecological research.
• Environmental Policy and Management – natural resource law, policy frameworks, stakeholder engagement and sustainable resource planning.
• Capstone Research Project – an independent or supervised research project that integrates field data collection, analysis and written/oral presentation of results.

Instruction blends lectures, laboratory work and regular field trips to local ecosystems such as coastal habitats and chaparral. Students also take elective modules to tailor their studies—for example wildlife management, marine ecology, climate impacts on ecosystems or environmental education.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme generally requires a secondary school diploma or equivalent with competitive grades, including strong preparation in biology and mathematics. Typical application components include a personal statement, academic transcripts and letters of recommendation. Applicants with relevant field or volunteer experience in conservation or environmental work are competitive.

Because universities’ application policies can change, applicants should check the University of San Diego’s admissions webpages for current requirements regarding standardised tests, specific course prerequisites and documentation for international students.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in conservation and natural resource management. Common pathways include:

• Conservation scientist or land manager working for government agencies, non-profit land trusts or conservation NGOs.
• Field technician or research assistant in ecological monitoring, restoration projects and biodiversity surveys.
• Environmental consultant specialising in habitat assessment, environmental impact assessment or compliance.
• GIS analyst or spatial data specialist supporting resource planning and conservation prioritisation.
• Park and protected-area management, wildlife biology or environmental education roles.
• Progression to postgraduate study (Master’s or PhD) in ecology, conservation biology, environmental science or resource policy for research and academic careers.

Internships, undergraduate research and local partnerships embedded in the programme help students build professional networks and practical experience valued by employers and graduate programmes.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a compact campus community with small class sizes and opportunities for close faculty mentoring, which benefits students pursuing intensive field and research training. Its location in Southern California places students within easy reach of a wide variety of ecosystems—coastal lagoons, beaches, chaparral and urban landscapes—ideal for applied learning and local field courses.

USD emphasises undergraduate research and experiential learning, with access to laboratory facilities, field equipment and community partnerships with local conservation organisations, reserves and public agencies. The university’s interdisciplinary approach encourages collaboration across environmental science, policy, business and social sciences, preparing graduates to address complex natural resource challenges in both local and global contexts.