Emory University

What you'll study

Core learning areas cover the scientific foundations of conservation together with applied skills in data collection, analysis and management. Typical topics and modules include:

• Ecosystem Ecology and Biodiversity — ecosystem structure and function, species interactions, population dynamics and biodiversity assessment methods.
• Conservation Biology and Restoration Ecology — principles of conserving threatened species and habitats, restoration strategies and monitoring of recovery efforts.
• Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing — spatial analysis, landscape metrics, habitat mapping and use of remote-sensing data for resource assessment.
• Research Methods and Statistics — experimental design, multivariate statistics, modelling, and data management for ecological research.
• Environmental Policy, Governance and Economics — legal and institutional frameworks, stakeholder analysis and economic tools for managing natural resources.
• Field Methods and Applied Techniques — hands-on training in survey methods, sampling protocols, biodiversity monitoring and use of field instrumentation.
• Human Dimensions and Community Engagement — participatory approaches, conflict resolution, and strategies for integrating local communities into conservation planning.
• Capstone Project or Thesis — an independent research project supervised by faculty, often involving original field or laboratory data and culminating in a written thesis or applied report.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, ideally in environmental science, biology, ecology, geography or a closely related discipline. Typical evidence of suitability includes:

• Academic transcripts demonstrating relevant coursework in ecology, statistics or quantitative methods.
• A personal statement outlining research interests, career goals and reasons for applying to the programme.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can attest to the applicant’s research potential and preparedness for graduate study.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé summarising relevant fieldwork, internships, laboratory experience or employment.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English language proficiency is required.

Some applicants may be asked to provide samples of past research (for example, an undergraduate dissertation) or to undertake an interview as part of the assessment. Specific additional requirements or recommended preparation (such as prior statistical or GIS coursework) are available from the programme admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across non-profit organisations, government agencies, consultancy and research institutions. Typical career paths include:

• Conservation scientist or biologist in NGOs and international conservation organisations.
• Resource manager or planner with local, regional or national government agencies.
• Environmental consultant specialising in biodiversity assessments, impact mitigation or restoration projects.
• GIS and spatial analyst roles supporting habitat mapping, land-use planning and natural capital assessments.
• Researcher or PhD candidate focusing on ecology, conservation science or environmental policy.
• Programme officer or policy advisor working on natural resource governance, sustainable development or community-based conservation.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers a research-led environment with close faculty supervision and opportunities to collaborate across disciplines, drawing on strengths in ecology, public policy and quantitative methods. Students benefit from access to regional field sites and partnerships with conservation organisations in the southeastern United States, as well as laboratory and analytical facilities for modern ecological research. The programme is designed for small cohorts, allowing personalised mentorship, frequent field-based learning and strong support for preparing research that leads to publication or direct application in conservation practice.