This bachelor's-level programme focuses on the principles and processes that shape biodiversity, from genes to ecosystems, combining coursework in ecology, evolution, systematics and population biology with hands-on laboratory and field experience. It suits students who want a rigorous, research-oriented undergraduate training in evolutionary biology and ecology, and who plan to pursue careers in research, conservation, environmental policy or further graduate study.
The programme builds a foundation in organismal biology, genetics and ecology before moving into specialised topics in evolution, systematics and population biology. Core topics typically include evolutionary theory, population genetics, phylogenetics and systematics, community and ecosystem ecology, conservation biology, life-history evolution and quantitative methods for ecological and evolutionary data.
Students can expect a mix of learning formats: introductory and advanced lectures, small seminars, laboratory courses that teach molecular and morphological techniques, and field courses emphasising study design and data collection. Training in statistics, experimental design and computational tools (for example, population-genetic and phylogenetic analysis, modelling and spatial ecology) is integrated throughout the curriculum.
A key component is independent research: students often undertake a senior thesis or capstone project under close faculty supervision, designing experiments or observational studies, analysing data and communicating results in written and oral form. Opportunities for summer and term-time fieldwork — including local field sites and regional ecosystems — expand practical experience in species sampling, monitoring and conservation practice.
Admission to this programme follows the college's undergraduate admissions process. Competitive applicants typically present a strong secondary-school record with coursework in biology and chemistry and solid preparation in mathematics (calculus or precalculus) and statistics where available. Advanced coursework such as AP, IB or A-levels in biology, chemistry, maths or related sciences strengthens an application.
Admissions decisions are based on a holistic review of academic achievement, teacher recommendations, personal essays and extracurricular engagement. Demonstrated interest in ecology, field experience, laboratory work or independent projects is an advantage. International applicants should submit equivalent academic credentials and evidence of English-language proficiency if required.
Graduates are well placed for a range of careers that require analytical skills, biological knowledge and research experience. Common pathways include:
Many graduates combine practical field or lab experience gained during the degree with internships and research publications to strengthen applications for competitive graduate programmes or specialised professional roles.
The programme benefits from a strong undergraduate-focused environment with close faculty mentorship and small class sizes that allow sustained research collaborations. Students gain practical skills through laboratory courses and frequent field opportunities, drawing on regional ecosystems and field sites accessible from campus.
Interdisciplinary connections across biological sciences, environmental studies and quantitative disciplines enable students to tailor their training — for example by combining ecological or evolutionary coursework with statistics, computer science or public policy. The college’s emphasis on undergraduate research and senior-thesis projects gives students direct experience in designing studies, analysing data and communicating scientific results, which is a strong foundation for both employment and further study.
Finally, the college’s community of researchers and active student organisations focused on conservation and outdoor science offer supplementary experience in outreach, stewardship and applied ecology, helping students translate classroom learning into real-world impact.
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