University of Utah

What you'll study

This degree emphasises core ecological and physical science foundations together with applied conservation and research methods. Typical topics include ecosystem and population ecology, soil science, watershed hydrology, conservation biology, wildlife ecology, and land-use and natural resource policy. Students build quantitative skills through courses in statistics, experimental design and spatial analysis, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing.

Programme structure usually combines introductory science and maths in the first year, intermediate disciplinary courses in years two and three, and advanced elective and capstone research experiences in the final year. Practical training is integrated across the curriculum: expected modules and learning experiences include field methods and sampling design, laboratory techniques in ecology and water chemistry, biodiversity assessment, modelling of ecological processes, and applied conservation planning.

Undergraduates are encouraged to take a substantial research or practicum component—this might be an independent honours-style project, a faculty-led research placement, or an applied internship with a public agency or non‑profit. Electives allow specialisation in topics such as riparian and watershed management, restoration ecology, wildlife monitoring, environmental policy, or GIS and spatial modelling.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school qualification equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma with strong performance in science and mathematics. Typical prerequisites include biology and chemistry at secondary level and comfort with algebra or precalculus; introductory college-level maths or chemistry may be required for transfer students. The University of Utah considers overall academic record, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement that demonstrates interest in natural resources and field science.

International applicants must meet the University’s English language proficiency standards. Transfer students from community colleges or other universities should present transcripts showing completed general education and introductory science coursework; department advisors can advise on mapping prior credits to major requirements. Some specialisations or field courses may have additional requirements such as up-to-date vaccinations, a valid driver’s licence for field travel, or approved safety training.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers in conservation, natural resource management and environmental research. Common roles include conservation scientist, resource manager, ecological or environmental technician, field biologist, watershed specialist, restoration ecologist, and GIS or data analyst. Many graduates work for state and federal natural resource agencies, municipal utilities, environmental consultancies, non‑governmental conservation organisations, and tribal resource departments.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study (master’s and PhD) in ecology, conservation biology, watershed sciences, forestry or environmental science, and for professional training in environmental law and policy. Practical research experience and internship placements gained during the degree improve employability in both applied and research-focused roles.

Why study at University of Utah

The University of Utah offers access to a diverse array of ecosystems—mountain forests, alpine zones, arid basins and nearby rivers—that provide excellent natural laboratories for fieldwork and applied projects. Students benefit from a research-intensive campus with faculty active in ecology, watershed science and conservation research, and from formal and informal partnerships with state agencies, national parks and regional conservation organisations.

Undergraduates have opportunities to join faculty research teams, present at student research symposia, and secure internships through departmental networks. Campus resources that support learning include laboratory space, GIS and remote sensing facilities, and field equipment. The programme’s emphasis on combining field skills, quantitative analysis and applied conservation practice is designed to prepare graduates for immediate entry into natural resource careers or for further research training.