Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The programme combines core biological principles with specialised courses in evolution, ecology, systematics and population biology. You will take foundational modules in cellular and organismal biology, genetics, and biochemistry alongside major-specific courses such as Evolutionary Biology, Community and Ecosystem Ecology, Population Genetics, Phylogenetics and Systematics, and Conservation Biology.

• Core science and methods: introductory and advanced laboratory courses, quantitative methods (statistics and modelling), molecular techniques, and computational approaches used in ecological and evolutionary research.
• Field and lab experience: field methods, ecological surveying, experimental design, long-term observational studies, and at least one supervised research practicum or lab rotation.
• Advanced topics: behavioural ecology, landscape ecology, molecular ecology, phylogeography, species delimitation and systematics, and evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo) options where available.
• Capstone and research: a senior seminar, independent honours thesis or capstone project with faculty mentorship, and opportunities to present research at symposiums.
• Interdisciplinary electives: courses in GIS and remote sensing, mathematical biology, bioinformatics, conservation policy and environmental ethics to broaden applied skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school academic record with emphasis on science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes high-school biology and chemistry, and coursework in mathematics (algebra and preferably calculus) and statistics. Physics and additional laboratory experience are advantageous.

• Academic qualifications: completion of secondary education with competitive grades; international applicants should hold equivalent qualifications.
• Recommended subjects: biology, chemistry and mathematics; coursework or extracurricular experience in field biology or research strengthens an application.
• Supporting materials: personal statement describing scientific interests and experience, one or more academic references, and school transcripts. Advanced Placement, IB or transferable university credits may be considered for placement or exemption where appropriate.

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified for a variety of roles in research, conservation, natural resource management and education, or may continue to postgraduate study in ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation science or related disciplines.

• Research technician or laboratory assistant in university, government or private-sector labs.
• Field ecologist, wildlife biologist, conservation practitioner or restoration ecologist working for NGOs, government agencies, or environmental consultancies.
• Taxonomist or collections specialist in museums or botanical gardens, and roles in biodiversity informatics and systematics.
• Data analyst or ecological modeller applying quantitative skills to population dynamics, species distribution modelling and environmental assessment.
• Science educator, outreach coordinator, or policy adviser on environmental and conservation issues.
• Further academic pathways: many graduates progress to MSc or PhD programmes in ecology, evolution, conservation biology, or related interdisciplinary areas.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve offers a research-active environment with strong faculty expertise in evolutionary biology, ecology and systematics, giving undergraduates early access to research projects and laboratory resources. The university’s location provides ready access to diverse field sites, regional freshwater and woodland ecosystems, and collaborations with institutions such as local museums and conservation organisations, which enhance fieldwork and internship opportunities.

• Undergraduate research emphasis: faculty-led labs welcome undergraduates for hands-on projects, and the programme emphasises mentored research leading to a senior thesis or conference presentations.
• Interdisciplinary links: opportunities to work across departments — for example with geography for GIS and remote sensing, computer science for bioinformatics, and social sciences for conservation policy.
• Facilities and partnerships: well-equipped molecular and ecological laboratories, access to nearby field stations and regional natural areas, and partnerships with local museums and conservation agencies that support internships and applied training.
• Career support: the university’s career services and departmental advising help connect students with internships, graduate programmes and employers in academia, government and the private sector.