University of California Davis

Overview

The Ecological Management and Restoration bachelor's program at the University of California, Davis equips students with a blend of scientific knowledge and practical skills essential for the restoration and management of damaged ecosystems. This program emphasizes the importance of biodiversity, habitat restoration, and informed land-use decisions, offering a comprehensive education through a combination of theoretical coursework and hands-on learning experiences.

What you'll study

The curriculum is structured to develop a thorough understanding of ecological principles, along with applied management skills. While specific course offerings may vary, the degree plan generally includes the following key components:

• Ecological Foundations: Exploration of plant and habitat ecology, ecosystem processes, and biodiversity concepts.
• Field and Identification Training: Skills in species and community identification, ecological observation, and survey methodologies.
• Restoration and Conservation Coursework: In-depth studies in restoration ecology, conservation biology, and habitat management.
• Soil, Water, and Land Systems: Understanding soil science and environmental systems that impact restoration outcomes.
• Regional Ecology: Focus on California's plant communities and ecosystem-specific learning.
• Applied Management and Policy: Examination of environmental policy and ecosystem services to link scientific principles with practical decision-making.
• Capstone/Project Experience: Engagement in a restoration-focused project or fieldwork that aligns with degree requirements.

Example Course Themes:

• Wetland Ecology
• Plant Ecology
• Ecological Identification & Field Methods
• Ecology of Grasses
• Trees & Forests
• California Plant Communities
• Restoration Ecology
• Conservation Biology
• Soil Science
• Environmental Policy
• Ecosystem Services

Entry requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants typically need to meet the following criteria:

• For non-residents of California, a competitive GPA is often required.
• Freshman applicants should be on track to complete a high school diploma (or equivalent) and meet all UC freshman admission requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Ecological Management and Restoration program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in environmental management, conservation biology, and ecological restoration. Potential career paths include roles in non-profit organizations, government agencies, research institutions, and private sector companies focused on environmental sustainability and habitat restoration. The skills gained in this program also provide a strong foundation for further graduate studies in related fields.