Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational natural science with applied conservation and research methods. Early coursework typically covers ecology, introductory biology, chemistry for life sciences, and statistics for biologists to build a strong scientific base.

• Core ecological and conservation topics: community and population ecology, conservation biology, wildlife ecology and management, aquatic ecology, soil and watershed science.
• Research and quantitative skills: experimental design, biostatistics, environmental sampling techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication.
• Technical skills: geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, field instrumentation, laboratory methods, and computer modelling applied to natural resources.
• Practical experience: field practicum or internship, capstone research project or senior thesis, and hands‑on laboratory classes that emphasise sampling design and data interpretation.
• Electives and breadth: options commonly include restoration ecology, landscape ecology, natural resource policy and law, marine and coastal ecology, and courses in related disciplines such as forestry or entomology.

The curriculum is designed so students progressively apply classroom theory to real‑world settings through field trips, semester‑long projects and supervised research with faculty. Many students take additional coursework in communications, policy or business to broaden career options.

Entry requirements

Admission is at the undergraduate level and typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants are expected to have completed preparatory university‑level mathematics and laboratory science courses in high school, such as biology and chemistry. A competitive high school record in STEM subjects is advantageous.

• Academic background: recommended courses include biology, chemistry, mathematics (algebra and precalculus or calculus), and Earth or environmental science where available.
• Transferring students: applicants transferring from a community college should provide official college transcripts showing completed credit in science and general education requirements; articulation agreements may apply.
• International applicants: must meet university requirements for secondary education equivalence and demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved institutional pathways.
• Other considerations: statement of purpose, letters of recommendation and evidence of relevant field experience or extracurricular involvement in environmental activities can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry‑level and technical roles in organisations that manage and study natural systems, as well as for graduate study. Exact roles depend on electives and practical experience gained during the degree.

• Conservation scientist or natural resource manager with federal, state or local agencies
• Wildlife or fisheries technician and field biologist conducting population surveys and monitoring
• Environmental consultant or technician working on impact assessments, restoration projects and compliance monitoring
• GIS technician or spatial analyst applying mapping and remote sensing to resource planning
• Research assistant or laboratory technician in university, non‑profit or private research settings
• Progression to graduate programmes (master’s or PhD) in ecology, conservation biology, natural resource management or related fields

Graduates who combine technical skills with internships or capstone research often find employment more quickly. Employers include government resource agencies, conservation NGOs, environmental consultancies, and research institutions.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers a curriculum emphasising field‑based learning and applied research, allowing students to gain practical experience in a range of ecosystems from upland forests to coastal estuaries. The university supports undergraduate research opportunities and supervised field practicum placements that connect students with regional natural resource managers and conservation organisations.

• Hands‑on training: extensive field courses and laboratory classes develop practical sampling, data analysis and GIS skills valued by employers.
• Research mentorship: opportunities to work with faculty on ongoing conservation and ecology research projects provide direct experience in designing and conducting studies.
• Regional access: proximity to diverse habitats in Georgia enables students to study freshwater, forest and coastal systems as part of coursework and internships.
• Career support: the university’s career services and strong ties with regional agencies and NGOs help students secure internships, practicum placements and employment.

Overall, the programme is well suited to students who want a science‑based education with substantial practical experience to prepare for careers in conservation, natural resource management or further academic study.