Dartmouth College

What you'll study

This major combines organismal biology, ecological theory, evolutionary processes, systematics and population biology with hands-on laboratory and field experience. The curriculum typically includes a sequence of core courses in evolutionary biology, population genetics, ecology, and systematics, supported by training in quantitative methods such as biostatistics, modelling and computational approaches.

• Core topics: natural selection and adaptation, speciation, phylogenetics and classification, population dynamics, community ecology, and conservation biology.
• Laboratory and field skills: molecular genetics techniques, ecological sampling and experimental design, remote sensing and GIS applications, and long-term field monitoring.
• Quantitative training: statistical inference for biological data, ecological and evolutionary modelling, and introductory bioinformatics.
• Capstone and research: an independent senior thesis or equivalent research project under faculty supervision is central to the programme, with opportunities for summer or year-round projects in campus laboratories and nearby field sites.
• Typical modules: Introductory Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Phylogenetics and Systematics, Population Biology, Conservation Science, Field Methods in Ecology, Biostatistics for Biologists, and Seminar in Evolutionary Topics.

Entry requirements

Dartmouth seeks applicants with strong preparation in the sciences and mathematics and evidence of intellectual curiosity and problem-solving. Typical readiness includes high school coursework in biology and chemistry and familiarity with algebra and calculus; experience in laboratory or field settings is beneficial but not mandatory.

• Competitive academic record across all subjects, with particular strength in maths and the natural sciences.
• Standardised test policies may vary; applicants should consult Dartmouth admissions for current guidance.
• Letters of recommendation that speak to academic promise and independent work are important. Demonstrated interest in research, internships, or sustained extracurricular involvement in biology or environmental activities strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are well positioned for diverse careers that draw on skills in data analysis, fieldwork, experimental design and scientific communication. Many students continue to graduate study (PhD, MS) in ecology, evolutionary biology, systematics, conservation biology, or related disciplines. Others enter employment directly in applied roles.

• Academic and research careers: graduate programmes, postdoctoral research, university teaching.
• Conservation and environmental practice: ecological consulting, conservation organisations, habitat restoration and natural resource management.
• Industry and applied science: biotechnology, environmental impact assessment, wildlife management agencies.
• Data- and policy-related roles: ecological modelling and data science, environmental policy, NGOs and governmental agencies.
• Education and outreach: secondary education, museum and zoo education, science communication.

Why study at Dartmouth College

Dartmouth offers a close-knit undergraduate environment with substantial faculty mentoring and early access to research. The college emphasizes undergraduate-led projects and small seminars, so students in this major often work directly with faculty on research from their first year.

• Undergraduate research focus: abundant opportunities to undertake independent research culminating in a senior thesis and to participate in summer projects and faculty labs.
• Field access: proximity to diverse field sites in the Upper Valley and the White Mountains provides rich opportunities for field courses and long-term ecological studies.
• Interdisciplinary connections: easy collaboration across departments—environmental studies, engineering, computer science and the Thayer School of Engineering—supports cross-trained skill sets in modelling, instrumentation and applied conservation.
• Experiential learning: emphasis on hands-on laboratory instruction, field trips, and campus-affiliated facilities that support organismal, molecular and ecological studies.