Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

This programme combines core biological principles with specialised coursework and hands-on experience in ecology, evolution, systematics and population biology. You will take foundational modules in cellular and organismal biology, genetics, biochemistry, and statistics before moving into advanced topics such as community and ecosystem ecology, evolutionary theory, phylogenetics and systematics, population genetics, conservation biology, and quantitative ecology.

• Core laboratory and field skills: organismal dissections, microscopy, molecular lab techniques (DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing basics), ecological sampling methods, population survey techniques, and data analysis using statistical software.
• Typical modules: Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Ecosystems, Animal Behaviour, Plant Biology and Systematics, Population Biology and Dynamics, Conservation Biology, Molecular Evolution, and Biostatistics.
• Practical components: regular field trips to local habitats, semester-long field projects, capstone research project or honours thesis supervised by faculty, and opportunities to participate in ongoing faculty-led research.
• Interdisciplinary options: electives in GIS and spatial analysis, environmental policy, environmental chemistry, and science communication to broaden applied and professional skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to have a high school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Recommended academic background includes biology and chemistry, and competency in algebra or precalculus. Admissions consider the overall academic record, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement describing interest in ecology and evolution.

• Standard expectations: completion of secondary-level biology and chemistry; solid performance in mathematics (algebra or higher).
• Additional application materials: personal statement, and one or more academic references are often requested; relevant extracurricular experience (field clubs, lab work, environmental volunteering) strengthens an application.
• International students: proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent) if English is not the first language, plus credential evaluation of secondary transcripts where applicable.
• Transfers and mature students: credit for prior college coursework in biology, chemistry or mathematics is considered; individual evaluation determines transfer credit and programme placement.

Career prospects

Graduates gain a solid foundation for careers in environmental and biological sciences or for further study at the master’s and doctoral level. The programme prepares students for roles that require field and laboratory skills, data analysis, and an understanding of population and evolutionary processes.

• Conservation biologist or ecologist with government agencies, non-governmental organisations and conservation trusts.
• Wildlife and habitat manager or field technician involved in monitoring and restoration projects.
• Environmental consultant conducting impact assessments and biodiversity surveys.
• Research technician in university, museum or private-sector laboratories, supporting genetic, ecological or systematics studies.
• Further study routes: graduate programmes in ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation science, wildlife management, environmental science, or professional programmes such as environmental law or education.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a supportive undergraduate environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty-led research. Students benefit from laboratory facilities and frequent fieldwork opportunities in the diverse habitats of New Jersey and the surrounding region, which provide real-world contexts for ecological and evolutionary study.

• Research and mentorship: opportunities to work alongside faculty on active research projects and to complete an independent capstone or honours thesis.
• Practical experience: local field sites and partnerships with regional conservation organisations, state agencies and museums for internships and applied projects.
• Facilities and resources: teaching laboratories, access to molecular and microscopy equipment, and support for student conference presentations and field excursions.
• Career support: advising and internship placement services that connect students with employers and graduate programmes in the life and environmental sciences.