CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

This programme combines core natural science training with applied conservation and research methods. You will complete foundational courses in ecology, organismal biology, chemistry and statistics, then move into specialised topics such as conservation biology, soil science, freshwater and estuarine ecology, restoration ecology and urban ecology. Practical modules emphasise field techniques, ecological monitoring, sampling design, data analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

• Core science foundations: General Biology, Ecology, Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Mathematical and Statistical Methods for the Natural Sciences.
• Conservation and resource subjects: Conservation Biology, Restoration Ecology, Wildlife and Habitat Management, Soil and Water Conservation, Landscape Ecology.
• Technical and analytical skills: Field Methods in Ecology, Environmental Sampling and Lab Techniques, GIS and Remote Sensing, Data Analysis and Modelling.
• Policy and human dimensions: Environmental Policy and Law, Natural Resource Economics, Environmental Ethics and Community Engagement.
• Capstone and experiential learning: Research capstone or practicum project, and a supervised internship with parks agencies, NGOs, or municipal environmental departments.

Program structure typically includes lower‑division general education and science prerequisites, upper‑division major requirements and electives, and a culminating research or practicum experience. Fieldwork in city, coastal and watershed settings is integrated throughout the curriculum.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong record in science and mathematics. Recommended secondary coursework includes biology, chemistry, mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus), and English. Admissions decisions consider high school GPA, the strength of science coursework, personal statements and extracurricular experience such as volunteer or paid fieldwork.

• Standard freshmen applicants: completion of secondary school with competitive grades in relevant subjects; some colleges in the CUNY system may also consider standardised test scores where submitted.
• Transfer applicants: college transcripts showing successful completion of introductory biology, chemistry and mathematics courses; an appropriate number of transferable credits for junior‑standing entry.
• International students: equivalent secondary school qualifications and proof of English proficiency as required by the admitting campus.

Applicants should check the specific CUNY college that houses the programme for campus‑level details and any additional requirements such as placement testing, interviews or portfolio materials for research experience.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and professional roles in conservation, environmental management and research. Typical early career positions include environmental technician, field biologist, ecological surveyor, GIS technician, restoration specialist, park naturalist and environmental educator. The programme also provides a strong foundation for graduate study (Master’s or PhD) in ecology, conservation biology, environmental science, natural resources management or environmental planning.

• Public sector roles with municipal and state parks, environmental protection and water resources agencies.
• Positions with environmental consulting firms conducting assessments, permitting and remediation.
• Work with non‑profits and community organisations focused on habitat restoration, urban greening and environmental outreach.
• Research assistantships or technician roles supporting university and government science projects.

Why study at CUNY (The City University of New York)

CUNY offers access to a large public university system embedded in a metropolitan region with varied ecosystems — urban green spaces, coastal and estuarine habitats, rivers and regional parklands — giving students distinctive opportunities for applied fieldwork. Faculty at CUNY colleges often maintain active research programmes in urban ecology, restoration and environmental justice and collaborate with city agencies and local NGOs, creating pathways for internships and project placements.

• Hands‑on learning using local field sites, campus laboratories and community partnerships across New York City and the surrounding region.
• Opportunities to gain practical skills in GIS, field sampling, lab analysis and environmental monitoring that are directly relevant to employers.
• Relatively affordable public tuition and extensive student support services, including career offices that maintain employer links in the region.
• Flexible pathways between associate degrees, bachelor degrees and graduate study within the CUNY system, facilitating transfer and continuing education.

Prospective students should consult the specific CUNY campus offering the Natural Resources Conservation and Research degree for detailed programme maps, available electives and information about faculty research and internship partners.