University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

This master's programme combines coursework, laboratory and field training, and an independent research project (thesis). Core topics cover evolutionary theory, population biology, systematics and ecological dynamics with an emphasis on integrating molecular, quantitative and modelling techniques.

• Evolution and population genetics: allele frequency change, selection, drift, migration, molecular evolution and coalescent approaches.
• Systematics and phylogenetics: tree inference, comparative methods, species delimitation and taxonomic practice using morphological and molecular data.
• Community and ecosystem ecology: species interactions, biodiversity patterns, ecosystem function and applied conservation ecology.
• Quantitative methods: statistical ecology, population modelling, spatial analysis, programming for ecological data and advanced data analysis (e.g. R, Bayesian methods).
• Field and laboratory techniques: experimental design in the field, sampling methods, molecular lab techniques (DNA sequencing, genotyping), and specimen curation.
• Seminars and professional skills: scientific communication, grant writing, ethics, and topical seminars led by faculty and visiting researchers.

Students normally complete a combination of required and elective courses and undertake an original research project under the supervision of a faculty advisor, culminating in a written thesis and oral defence. Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration exist across campus research centres and with regional field stations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, evolution, environmental science or a closely related discipline. Typical application materials requested by the department include:

• Official academic transcripts demonstrating a strong academic record in relevant coursework (e.g. genetics, ecology, statistics).
• A personal statement detailing research interests, relevant experience and reasons for pursuing the master's programme.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can comment on research potential.
• Evidence of research experience (honours project, summer research, lab work or fieldwork) is highly recommended.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is required in line with university policy.

Prospective students should consult the department for information on standardised tests; admission practices may vary and some programmes do not require GRE scores. Competitive applicants typically show quantitative skills and a clear research focus aligned with departmental faculty expertise.

Career prospects

Graduates with a master's in this field move into a variety of roles in research, conservation and applied sciences or continue to doctoral study. Common career destinations include:

• Research technician or scientist in academic, government or non-profit laboratories.
• Conservation biologist, wildlife or fisheries manager working for governmental agencies or NGOs.
• Environmental consultant specialising in biodiversity assessment, impact analysis or restoration ecology.
• Data analyst or modeller applying quantitative skills to ecological or environmental datasets.
• Museum or herbarium curator and collections manager in natural history institutions.
• Progression to PhD programmes in ecology, evolution, systematics or related disciplines, supported by the research experience gained during the master's.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder offers access to a broad range of ecosystems—from alpine and montane sites to plains and riparian habitats—making it an excellent base for field-intensive study in ecology and evolution. The department fosters close faculty-student mentorship and hosts active research groups in population genetics, phylogenetics, community ecology, and landscape-level studies.

• Strong ties to campus research centres and institutes enable interdisciplinary projects that combine molecular, computational and field approaches.
• Laboratory facilities and computing resources support modern molecular and quantitative methods; students routinely gain hands-on experience with sequencing, genotyping and advanced data analysis.
• Proximity to regional and national field stations, protected areas and federal research agencies provides practical training opportunities and pathways to collaborative research and employment.
• Graduate students benefit from seminar series, research symposia and a collaborative community that emphasises professional development and preparation for diverse careers in science.

Prospective applicants should review departmental webpages and contact potential faculty advisors to discuss fit and research opportunities within the programme.