Marymount Manhattan College

What you'll study

This programme blends core natural science training with applied conservation and research skills. Students take foundational courses in ecology, organismal biology, and chemistry before progressing to specialised modules such as conservation biology, wildlife management, habitat restoration, urban ecology, and freshwater ecology. Quantitative and technical training is central: courses in statistics for biologists, GIS and remote sensing, ecological modelling, and data analysis using R provide the analytical tools needed for contemporary research and conservation practice.

Practical, hands-on learning is emphasised through laboratory work, field trips to regional parks, estuaries and forested sites, and semester-long field methods courses that teach sampling design, species surveying, soil and water testing, and habitat assessment. The degree typically culminates in a capstone research project or honours thesis in which students design and carry out an original study under faculty supervision.

• Introductory and intermediate ecology
• Conservation biology and principles of biodiversity
• Field methods and laboratory techniques
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing
• Statistics for environmental research and data science fundamentals
• Environmental policy, ethics and resource management
• Urban ecology and human dimensions of conservation
• Capstone research project or honours thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants should have completed secondary education with a strong science background. Successful candidates typically present evidence of competence in biology and mathematics; chemistry and environmental science are also advantageous. Marymount Manhattan College values demonstrated interest in fieldwork or research, which can be shown through relevant coursework, extracurricular activities, volunteer experience with conservation organisations, or a short portfolio describing field projects.

The college considers the whole application, so personal statements and recommendation letters that speak to motivation for conservation and research are important. Standardised tests may be optional depending on the college's current admissions policy; applicants should check the college admissions pages for up-to-date testing guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of entry-level roles in conservation, environmental consultancy and applied research. Typical job titles include conservation technician or field biologist, ecological surveyor, GIS technician, restoration technician, environmental educator, and research assistant in academic or non-profit research projects. The programme also provides a strong foundation for progression to postgraduate study in ecology, natural resources management, environmental science, or related professional qualifications.

Because of the college’s New York City location, many students secure internships and employment with regional environmental NGOs, city and state parks agencies, watershed organisations, environmental consultancies and museums. Transferable skills in data analysis, scientific communication and field methods also open doors to roles in policy, outreach and environmental project management.

Why study at Marymount Manhattan College

Marymount Manhattan College offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which benefits students undertaking intensive field and research training. The college’s location in New York City provides access to a broad network of environmental organisations, municipal agencies and research institutions for internships, collaborative projects and guest lectures.

Students receive hands-on research opportunities early in their studies and can work directly with faculty on independent projects. The curriculum’s urban ecology components are particularly well suited to those interested in conserving natural resources in metropolitan and peri‑urban contexts, while partnerships with regional parks and field stations give students regular access to field sites beyond the city. Career support and internship placement services help translate undergraduate experience into practical employment or further study options.