University of Michigan

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational ecological and earth‑system science with practical conservation methods and research training. Core topics typically include ecology, conservation biology, population dynamics, ecosystem management, soil and watershed science, and wildlife and fisheries biology. Quantitative skills are emphasised through modules in statistics, spatial analysis (GIS), and experimental design, enabling students to analyse ecological data and evaluate management outcomes.

• Introductory sciences: ecology, cell and organismal biology, chemistry, and earth systems.
• Conservation and management: conservation biology, protected-area management, restoration ecology, and natural resource policy and ethics.
• Research methods and data skills: biostatistics, experimental design, GIS and remote sensing, wildlife and fisheries survey techniques.
• Field-intensive training: extended field courses, field camp at research stations, and laboratory practicum.
• Capstone or honours project: an independent research project supervised by faculty, often involving original field or laboratory data collection and analysis.

Students can usually tailor study through electives in related areas such as environmental policy, socio‑ecological systems, environmental economics, climate science or restoration practice. Interdisciplinary collaborations with the School for Environment and Sustainability, biology, earth and environmental sciences, and public policy are common.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and seeks applicants with strong preparation in mathematics and the natural sciences. Typical expectations include a high school diploma with coursework in biology and chemistry, competence in algebra and statistics, and evidence of quantitative skills. Admissions committees also value outdoor experience, fieldwork, laboratory experience or relevant volunteer work.

• Academic record: strong high school grades or equivalent; successful applicants usually demonstrate rigorous coursework.
• Subject preparation: biology and chemistry are expected; additional courses in mathematics, physics or environmental science are beneficial.
• Supporting materials: personal statement (motivation for conservation and research), letters of recommendation, and any relevant resume or portfolio of field or research experience.
• International applicants: academic credentials equivalent to U.S. secondary education and proof of English proficiency where required.

Transfer students and those with prior college coursework should provide transcripts and may receive credit for appropriate completed courses. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; selection considers the whole application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in conservation science, natural resource management, environmental consulting, and applied research. Common roles include conservation scientist, wildlife biologist, fisheries technician, restoration ecologist, park or reserve manager, environmental consultant, field technician, and policy analyst for government or non‑profit organisations.

• Applied roles: field and laboratory technician positions, wildlife and fisheries monitoring, habitat restoration practitioner.
• Consultancy and management: environmental impact assessment, natural resource planning, stewardship and land management.
• Research and academia: research assistantships, internships at research stations, or progression to graduate study (master’s or PhD) in ecology, conservation biology or environmental science.
• Public and non‑profit sector: roles in government agencies, NGOs and international conservation organisations focusing on biodiversity, wetlands, forests and water resources.

Hands‑on field experience, GIS and statistical skills, and completion of an honours or capstone research project improve employability and provide a foundation for postgraduate study.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers access to broad interdisciplinary resources, active faculty research programmes, and extensive field infrastructure. Students benefit from nearby field stations such as the University of Michigan Biological Station, which provide opportunities for intensive field courses and collaborative research. Cross‑school partnerships with the School for Environment and Sustainability, departments of ecology and evolutionary biology, and earth and environmental sciences support diverse elective options and research supervision.

• Research opportunities: faculty‑led labs, undergraduate research assistantships and the chance to conduct original fieldwork as part of a capstone project.
• Facilities: access to specialized laboratories, GIS and remote sensing resources, museum collections and long‑term ecological datasets.
• Practical experience: internships, public‑agency collaborations and community conservation projects that connect learning to real‑world management.
• Career support: dedicated career services, alumni networks in conservation and the environmental sector, and workshops on professional skills and graduate‑school preparation.

These strengths make the University of Michigan a strong setting for students who want a scientifically rigorous, field‑oriented education in natural resources conservation and research.