Northwest Missouri State University

What you'll study

The programme covers core topics in ecology, evolutionary biology, systematics and population biology, emphasising both conceptual understanding and practical skills. Teaching combines classroom lectures, laboratory work and field-based learning so students develop competence in organismal biology, experimental design and data analysis.

• Core subjects: principles of ecology, evolutionary theory, population genetics, organismal biology and systematics.
• Laboratory and field methods: field ecology and sampling techniques, population monitoring, specimen preparation, molecular methods for ecology and evolution, and laboratory safety.
• Quantitative skills: biostatistics, ecological modelling, quantitative genetics and the use of statistical software and GIS for spatial analysis.
• Applied and specialised topics: conservation biology, community ecology, behavioural ecology, phylogenetics, landscape ecology and restoration ecology.
• Capstone and research experience: options typically include an independent research project, senior seminar or capstone course where students design experiments, analyse data and present findings.
• Supporting coursework: mathematics (calculus and/or statistics), chemistry, and recommended electives such as botany, entomology, microbiology or environmental science.

Students normally combine major requirements with the University’s general education curriculum and may select electives or minors to tailor the degree toward molecular methods, conservation practice or education.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor's programme requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of academic preparation in science and mathematics. Applicants are typically expected to have studied biology and chemistry at secondary level; coursework in mathematics (algebra and statistics) is strongly recommended.

• Successful applicants normally present a competitive academic record in relevant subjects; specific GPA or test score thresholds vary with overall admissions policies.
• Prior laboratory or field experience is advantageous but not mandatory — volunteer or work experience in natural history museums, conservation organisations or school science projects can strengthen an application.
• Transfers should provide college transcripts; students with previous college coursework in biology, chemistry and statistics will have those credits evaluated toward major and general education requirements.
• International applicants must meet university-wide language proficiency and credential requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across government, non‑profit, private and academic sectors. The degree equips students with field and laboratory skills, quantitative training and experience in scientific communication.

• Wildlife and conservation biologist, working with state or federal agencies, NGOs or land trusts.
• Environmental consultant or ecological surveyor conducting impact assessments and mitigation planning.
• Research technician or laboratory assistant in university, museum or commercial research settings.
• Positions in natural history collections, taxonomy and museum curation.
• GIS analyst or ecological modeller applying spatial data to conservation and resource management.
• Secondary education or science outreach roles; teaching certification or additional credentials may be required.
• Many graduates continue to postgraduate study (master’s or PhD) to specialise in areas such as evolutionary biology, conservation genetics or wildlife ecology.

Why study at Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State University offers a supportive, hands‑on environment for undergraduate biology training, with relatively small class sizes and opportunities for close faculty mentoring. The department emphasises experiential learning through laboratory courses, field trips and independent research projects that allow students to develop practical skills valued by employers and graduate programmes.

• Access to well‑equipped teaching laboratories and field resources for organismal and ecological study.
• Opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty across ecology, evolution and systematics, helping students build research portfolios and presentations.
• Strong links to regional conservation organisations, parks and government agencies that provide internship and employment pathways.
• A curriculum that balances theoretical foundations with applied techniques such as molecular methods, GIS and statistical analysis.

Together these features make the programme appropriate for students aiming for hands‑on careers in ecology and conservation or who plan to continue into advanced study in evolutionary and population biology.