University of Michigan

What you'll study

This PhD combines rigorous disciplinary training with interdisciplinary perspective to support independent research on natural-resources conservation, ecosystem management and socio-ecological systems. Coursework typically covers advanced ecological theory, conservation biology, natural-resources policy, environmental economics, and human dimensions of conservation, together with quantitative methods such as statistics, spatial analysis, remote sensing and modelling.

• Core topics: conservation biology, landscape ecology, population dynamics, ecosystem services and restoration ecology.
• Quantitative and technical skills: statistical inference for ecology, GIS and remote sensing, spatial modelling, experimental design and data science for environmental applications.
• Policy and human dimensions: natural-resources governance, environmental policy analysis, stakeholder engagement and participatory research methods.
• Research training: advanced seminars, methods workshops, teaching experience, and development of a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to knowledge.

Program structure emphasises an early period of coursework and methods training, followed by qualifying examinations or milestone assessments and concentrated dissertation research conducted under the guidance of a faculty committee. Students often work across units and centres, drawing on expertise from ecology, social sciences, engineering and public policy.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree and, in many cases, a master’s degree in ecology, environmental science, natural-resources management, biology, geography, or a closely related discipline. Successful candidates have demonstrated research experience (for example, honours projects, master’s theses, published papers or research assistantships), strong academic records, and clear evidence of quantitative and field skills appropriate to their intended research.

• Academic transcripts: evidence of high academic standing in prior degrees.
• Research experience: description of past research, publications or technical reports and potential for independent scholarship.
• References: several academic or professional letters of recommendation that can speak to research potential and technical ability.
• Supporting statements: a statement of purpose outlining research interests and fit with potential faculty supervisors, and a curriculum vitae.
• English language proficiency: required for applicants whose first language is not English, in accordance with university policy.

Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate specific quantitative competence or field skills depending on their proposed research. Admissions committees also consider fit with faculty research interests and availability of faculty advisors and funding.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in Natural Resources Conservation and Research pursue a wide range of careers. Common pathways include academic positions as researchers and faculty, postdoctoral research roles, and leadership jobs in conservation science.

• Academic careers: tenure-track and research faculty positions, postdoctoral fellowships, and university-based research leadership.
• Government and public sector: scientific and policy roles in federal, state or local agencies involved in wildlife, forestry, fisheries, and land-use planning.
• Non-governmental organisations and conservation groups: senior scientist, programme director, science-policy advisor or monitoring and evaluation specialist.
• Consultancy and private sector: environmental consulting, natural capital assessments, ecological restoration companies and sustainability strategy for resource-dependent industries.
• Interdisciplinary roles: positions in environmental policy, resource economics, and international conservation organisations.

The programme’s emphasis on applied research, quantitative skills and communication prepares graduates to translate scientific results into management recommendations, policy advice and effective conservation practice.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers an interdisciplinary environment with strong faculty expertise across ecology, environmental social science, policy and quantitative methods. Students benefit from collaboration with the School for Environment and Sustainability and related units across campus, including engineering, public policy and the life sciences.

• Research infrastructure: access to field sites, long-term ecological data sets, advanced labs, GIS and remote sensing facilities, and institutional research centres focused on freshwater systems, biodiversity and sustainability.
• Collaborative culture: frequent interdisciplinary projects, seminars and opportunities to work with faculty across departments and partner organisations in the Great Lakes region and beyond.
• Professional development: support for teaching experience, grant-writing, communication training and pathways to funded research through assistantships, fellowships and collaborative grants.

Collectively these elements provide a strong foundation for doctoral researchers aiming to produce policy-relevant science and lead in conservation research and practice.