Ursinus College

What you'll study

This programme blends courses in ecology, conservation biology, environmental science, and research methods with elective options that allow specialisation in areas such as freshwater ecology, wildlife biology, forest and watershed management, or restoration ecology. Core topics typically include population and community ecology, ecosystem dynamics, natural resources policy and ethics, field methods and experimental design, GIS and spatial analysis, and statistics for the biological sciences.

• Introductory science sequence: foundational courses in biology, chemistry and quantitative methods to build laboratory and analytical skills.
• Ecology and conservation core: population ecology, community ecology, conservation biology, landscape ecology and restoration practices.
• Research and methods: courses in field techniques, ecological monitoring, ecological modelling, GIS, remote sensing and statistical analysis.
• Applied learning: semester-long or short-term field courses, laboratory projects and capstone research experience supervised by faculty.
• Interdisciplinary electives: environmental policy, environmental ethics, natural resource law, sociology of the environment and courses from geology or botany relevant to resource management.

Students are expected to complete a substantial senior capstone or honours research project that emphasises original data collection, analysis and communication of findings. The college’s small class sizes enable frequent field trips to local forests, streams and conservation sites and close mentorship from faculty to develop practical skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a secondary school diploma (or equivalent) with a strong academic record. Recommended preparation includes college-preparatory courses in biology and chemistry, mathematics (including algebra and preferably calculus or statistics), and writing. Admissions typically consider the overall transcript, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining interest in natural resources and conservation.

• Academic background: coursework in biology and chemistry, and mathematics strongly recommended.
• Supporting materials: at least one academic reference, a personal statement or essay, and high-school transcripts.
• Standardised tests: the college may be test-optional; applicants should check current admissions policies for guidance on SAT/ACT reporting.
• Experience: prior field experience, volunteer work with conservation organisations, participation in environmental clubs, or independent projects are advantageous but not strictly required.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers in conservation, research and resource management, often combining applied fieldwork with data analysis and community engagement. Typical roles include:

• Conservation technician or field biologist monitoring wildlife, vegetation and water quality.
• Environmental consultant working on habitat assessments, environmental impact studies and restoration planning.
• Natural resources manager or planner for parks, municipal agencies, non-profit conservation organisations or watershed groups.
• Research assistant in university, government or NGO labs supporting ecological studies and long-term monitoring.
• Further study options in ecology, environmental science, natural resource management, wildlife biology or related professional programmes (e.g. forestry, environmental policy).

Many graduates combine job placements with continued professional certification or graduate study. The programme’s emphasis on undergraduate research and internships helps students build practical experience and professional networks.

Why study at Ursinus College

Ursinus offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which is particularly valuable for students in an applied science and research-focused programme. The campus is situated in a region with diverse terrestrial and freshwater habitats within easy reach for hands-on fieldwork and seasonal study. Students benefit from opportunities to undertake independent research with faculty, access to local conservation partners for internships, and an interdisciplinary approach that integrates science with policy and community engagement.

Overall, the college’s emphasis on undergraduate research, field-based learning and cross-disciplinary collaboration makes it a strong fit for students seeking practical skills in natural resources conservation and a pathway to careers in ecology, resource management and environmental research.