Roger Williams University

What you'll study

This programme covers the core principles of ecology and evolutionary biology, emphasising systematics, population processes and applied conservation. Course work balances classroom instruction, laboratory techniques and extensive field experience at the University’s waterfront facilities and nearby coastal and terrestrial sites.

• Foundations: introductory and advanced courses in ecology, evolutionary biology, organismal biology and systematics, providing theoretical frameworks for biodiversity and adaptation.
• Field methods and laboratory skills: vertebrate and invertebrate identification, ecological sampling techniques, experimental design, histology and molecular lab methods used in population genetics and phylogenetics.
• Quantitative and computational tools: biostatistics, ecological modelling, population dynamics, spatial analysis (GIS) and bioinformatics approaches for analysing genetic and ecological datasets.
• Applied and integrative topics: conservation biology, restoration ecology, community ecology, behavioural ecology, fisheries biology and disease ecology, with attention to human impacts and management strategies.
• Capstone and research opportunities: a senior seminar or capstone research project supervised by faculty, supported by access to campus marine and coastal research sites; opportunities for independent research, collaborative projects with local agencies and internships.
• Field courses and experiential learning: boat-based and shoreline field trips, seasonal field stations, citizen-science initiatives and practicum placements that develop professional fieldwork experience.

Programme structure

Students progress through general education and core biological sciences before taking specialised electives and research-focused courses. The programme typically culminates in a senior project or thesis and can be combined with minors or certificates such as marine biology, environmental science, or statistics to broaden skill sets.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school qualification or equivalent with a strong foundation in the sciences. Typical expectations include:

• Successful completion of high-school level biology and chemistry.
• Preparation in mathematics — coursework in algebra and statistics is expected; calculus is beneficial for some advanced courses.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating consistent performance in STEM subjects; admissions review also considers extracurricular involvement in science, fieldwork, or related activities.
• Personal statement outlining interest in ecology/evolution and career goals; letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who can speak to academic readiness are recommended.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and descriptions of prior coursework. International applicants should demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and meet the University’s language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in scientific, governmental and non-profit sectors or for further study. Common paths include:

• Research technician roles in university, government or private labs conducting field surveys, monitoring and lab-based genetic or ecological analyses.
• Conservation biologist, wildlife or fisheries biologist positions with government agencies, NGOs and environmental consultancies focused on habitat assessment, species monitoring and restoration.
• Environmental consultant roles performing ecological impact assessments, permitting support and mitigation planning for development projects.
• Positions in natural history museums, aquaria or interpretive centres involving curation, education and public engagement.
• Data analyst or ecological modeller roles applying quantitative skills to biodiversity, climate and resource management problems.
• Progression to graduate study (MSc/PhD) or professional programmes in ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation science, environmental management or related fields.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University offers hands-on, mentored training in ecology and evolution with ready access to coastal and estuarine environments ideal for field-based research. The campus’s waterfront facilities and regional collaborations provide practical training in marine and terrestrial systems.

• Small classes and faculty mentorship: close interaction with faculty enables guided research experiences, internships and tailored academic advising.
• Coastal and field resources: nearby salt marshes, estuaries and coastal habitats offer frequent fieldwork opportunities and partnerships with local conservation organisations and agencies.
• Interdisciplinary preparation: the programme encourages combining ecology and evolution studies with coursework in statistics, GIS, policy or marine science to increase employability.
• Experiential learning and career support: practicum placements, campus-run research projects and career services help students build professional networks and transition into jobs or graduate programmes.