University of Washington

Overview

The Quantitative Ecology and Management (QERM) program at the University of Washington is designed to equip graduate students with the skills necessary to address real-world environmental and ecological challenges through the application of statistics, mathematical modeling, and optimization techniques. The program offers both Master’s and Doctoral degrees, fostering a rigorous academic environment where students can engage in meaningful research and develop specialized expertise.

What you'll study

The curriculum is structured to include a foundational first year followed by a focus on research and specialization. Students will undergo essential training in quantitative methods for ecological and environmental data analysis, and learn to apply modeling and analysis techniques in research and decision-making contexts.

• Core coursework: Graduates will participate in core courses covering statistical inference, stochastic modeling, and optimization relevant to ecological issues.
• Research focus: After the first year, students will collaborate with supervisory committees to develop thesis or dissertation proposals, complemented by electives in areas such as resource management and advanced statistics.
• Capstone requirement: The program culminates in an original research thesis for Master’s candidates or a dissertation for Doctoral candidates.

Example course topics include:

• Analysis of Ecological and Environmental Data
• Stochastic Modeling of Scientific Data
• Linear Optimization Models in Engineering
• Optimization Techniques for Natural Resources
• Advanced Ecology Topics
• Mathematical Analysis in Biology and Medicine

Entry requirements

Applicants to the QERM program should prepare a complete application that includes a CV or resume, academic transcripts, a statement of purpose or personal statement, letters of recommendation, and an optional technical writing sample. A strong academic background with a competitive GPA is typically expected.

Career prospects