Lesley University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme blends core ecological science with quantitative methods, policy and applied conservation practice. You take a mix of classroom, laboratory and field courses that emphasise experiential learning and research.

• Foundations in ecology and biology: population and community ecology, organismal biology, ecosystem function and biodiversity.
• Physical and chemical environmental science: hydrology, soil science, biogeochemistry and water quality monitoring.
• Quantitative and technical skills: statistics for environmental data, GIS and remote sensing, data management and spatial analysis.
• Conservation and restoration practice: conservation biology, restoration ecology, habitat assessment, invasive species management and adaptive management.
• Policy, ethics and resource economics: natural resource policy and law, environmental ethics, community-based conservation and resource economics.
• Research and field methods: experimental design, ecological sampling techniques, laboratory methods, long-term monitoring and a faculty-supervised research project or capstone.
• Practicum and internships: semester-long internships or placements with regional conservation organisations, parks, municipal natural resource departments or research labs to apply skills in real-world settings.

The programme typically integrates Lesley’s general education curriculum with major requirements, and emphasises small seminar-style classes, field trips in the New England region and opportunities to collaborate on faculty-led research and community partnerships.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school credential. Admissions decisions are based on academic preparation, the strength of supporting documents and the applicant’s fit with the programme’s hands-on, research-focused approach.

• Official secondary school transcripts showing a strong foundation in sciences and mathematics where possible.
• A personal statement outlining interest in natural resources, conservation and relevant experiences such as fieldwork, volunteer work or coursework.
• One or more academic or professional references that can speak to academic readiness and suitability for field-based study.
• Evidence of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests and minimums are specified by the university).

Additional considerations may include a résumé of relevant experience, a portfolio of field or lab work if available, and an interview for some applicants. Standardised test submission policies follow the university’s current admissions guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry-level professional roles and for continued study in graduate programmes. Typical career paths include:

• Conservation technician or field biologist with government agencies, land trusts and NGOs.
• Environmental consultant specialising in habitat assessment, ecological monitoring or restoration projects.
• Park and protected-area management, including park ranger and resource stewardship positions.
• Research assistant positions in university or independent research labs, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem research.
• Roles in environmental education, community science coordination and outreach with museums, nature centres and schools.
• Stepping stone to graduate study in ecology, conservation biology, environmental science, resource management or related fields.

The programme’s emphasis on internships, professional networks in the Boston–Cambridge region and transferable technical skills (GIS, statistics, field methods) helps graduates transition into the workforce or competitive graduate programmes.

Why study at Lesley University

Lesley offers a small-college learning environment with close faculty mentorship and a strong focus on experiential education. Students benefit from:

• Small class sizes and accessible faculty who supervise independent research and capstone projects.
• Hands-on field and lab experience in the varied ecosystems of New England, from coastal habitats to forested landscapes.
• Connections to regional conservation organisations, municipal natural resource departments and research institutions for internships and collaborative projects.
• An interdisciplinary approach that links science with policy, ethics and community engagement—preparing students to work across sectors.
• Support services for career development and graduate school preparation, including assistance with placement in internships and professional roles.

Together, these elements deliver practical skills and professional experience for students committed to conserving and researching natural resources.