Widener University

What you'll study

This programme combines core ecological and environmental science principles with practical skills in field methods, laboratory analysis and data interpretation. Typical modules and topics include:

• Ecology and Conservation Biology — population and community ecology, species interactions, biodiversity assessment and conservation strategies.
• Soil and Watershed Science — soil properties, erosion processes, hydrology, watershed management and water quality monitoring.
• Field Methods and Natural Resources Inventory — sampling design, vegetation and wildlife surveys, habitat assessment and long‑term monitoring techniques.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing — spatial analysis, mapping, landscape ecology and use of remote sensing data for resource assessment.
• Quantitative and Laboratory Skills — statistics for environmental data, experimental design, laboratory techniques for soil, water and biological analyses.
• Environmental Policy, Law and Management — frameworks for natural resource governance, environmental permitting and stakeholder engagement.
• Research Project / Capstone — supervised independent research or applied project that integrates fieldwork, data analysis and reporting.

The programme typically integrates classroom instruction with extensive fieldwork on campus and at local sites, laboratory practicals, computer‑based spatial analysis, and opportunities for internships or cooperative placements. Elective choices allow specialisation in areas such as wildlife management, restoration ecology, aquatic ecology, or environmental monitoring.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions typically consider a combination of the following:

• A strong academic record with particular strength in science and mathematics (biology, chemistry and algebra/trigonometry or calculus recommended).
• Transcripts and a personal statement outlining interest in natural resources and relevant experience (fieldwork, volunteering, clubs, or summer programmes are beneficial).
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who can speak to academic potential and practical aptitude.
• Standardised test scores may be considered where submitted; applicants should check the university’s current testing policy.

Applicants with college coursework, workplace experience in environmental fields, or international qualifications are evaluated on an individual basis. Mature applicants with relevant experience are encouraged to apply.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers in environmental science, resource management and applied research. Typical roles include:

• Conservation scientist or natural resource manager working for government agencies, land trusts and non‑profit conservation organisations.
• Environmental consultant conducting field assessments, permitting support and remediation monitoring for private firms.
• GIS analyst or spatial data technician supporting habitat mapping, land‑use planning and natural resource inventories.
• Field technician or research assistant in academic or governmental research projects, monitoring wildlife, water quality or ecosystem health.
• Restoration practitioner involved in habitat restoration, streambank stabilization and invasive species management.

Graduates also commonly progress to postgraduate study in ecology, natural resources, environmental management or related disciplines, or to professional certification pathways relevant to conservation and resource management.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a personalised undergraduate experience with small class sizes and accessible faculty who supervise hands‑on research and field training. The university’s location provides convenient access to a variety of ecosystems—urban, suburban and riparian—useful for practical field instruction and applied projects.

Students benefit from modern laboratory facilities, GIS and computing resources, and structured opportunities for internships or cooperative education placements that connect them with regional environmental agencies, consultancies and non‑profits. The programme emphasises applied skills, professional preparation and research experience to support immediate employability or further academic study.