St. John's University

What you'll study

This programme blends core ecological science with applied management and research practice. You will study modules that typically cover conservation biology, restoration ecology, ecosystem services, and habitat management alongside practical subjects such as field survey techniques, monitoring methods and species population assessment. Quantitative skills are emphasised through courses in ecological statistics, experimental design and spatial analysis using GIS and remote sensing. Training in research methods prepares you for an independent research project or thesis, and many students undertake fieldwork, laboratory work and small group research placements. Optional modules and seminars explore policy and governance, environmental law, stakeholder engagement, and applied conservation technologies.

• Core topics: conservation biology, restoration ecology, ecosystem management, population dynamics, ecological monitoring.
• Research and methods: experimental design, statistics for ecology, GIS and remote sensing, bioinformatics where relevant.
• Applied practice: field survey techniques, sampling methods, habitat assessment, conservation planning and adaptive management.
• Context and policy: natural resource policy, environmental impact assessment, community engagement and conservation economics.
• Capstone: an independent research thesis or practicum project supervised by academic staff, often involving original field or laboratory research.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline such as biology, ecology, environmental science, forestry, geography or a closely related subject. Strong applicants with professional experience in conservation or natural resource management may also be considered. Applications usually require an academic transcript, a personal statement describing research interests and career aims, and two references (academic or professional). International applicants will need to demonstrate proficiency in English to the university's required level. Depending on the applicant’s background, the programme may recommend or require short preparatory modules in quantitative methods or GIS.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme go on to careers in environmental and natural resource sectors across the public, private and voluntary sectors. Typical roles include conservation scientist, natural resources manager, ecological consultant, biodiversity officer, restoration practitioner and policy adviser. The research training also prepares graduates for doctoral study and research technician positions in universities and research institutes. Alumni work for government agencies, environmental NGOs, consultancy firms, land trusts, and international conservation organisations, and some pursue entrepreneurship in environmental services and technology.

Why study at St. John's University

St. John's University offers an interdisciplinary environment with access to experienced academic staff whose research spans applied ecology, restoration and resource management. The programme emphasises hands-on learning through fieldwork and laboratory training, and benefits from partnerships with regional conservation organisations and government bodies that provide placement and collaboration opportunities. Students can take advantage of campus research facilities and spatial analysis resources, and the university supports professional development through workshops on grant writing, science communication and project management. The programme’s combination of practical skills and rigorous research training makes it suitable for those aiming to work directly in conservation practice or to continue in academic research.