Benedictine University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines foundational natural science with applied conservation practice and research methods. Core topics include ecology, conservation biology, wildlife management, soil science and freshwater ecology, together with quantitative skills such as biostatistics and experimental design. Practical, hands-on learning is emphasised through laboratory courses, field methods, and mapping and spatial-analysis modules using GIS and remote sensing.

Typical modules and components include:

• Ecology and Ecosystem Science: community and population ecology, habitat dynamics and ecosystem processes.
• Conservation Biology and Policy: species conservation, protected-area management and the policy and ethical dimensions of natural resource use.
• Wildlife and Fishery Management: population assessment, monitoring techniques and management strategies for terrestrial and aquatic species.
• Hydrology and Soil Science: watershed processes, stream ecology, soil properties and land-use impacts.
• GIS, Remote Sensing and Data Analysis: spatial data handling, mapping, landscape analysis and applied statistics for environmental data.
• Research Methods and Capstone Project: a semester-long research project or field study under faculty supervision, culminating in a written report and presentation.
• Internship or Practicum: applied placement with government agencies, non-profit organisations, land trusts or private sector firms to gain workplace experience.

The programme is typically delivered through a mix of lectures, laboratory sessions, weekend or week-long field trips and supervised independent research. Students can tailor elective choices to focus more on restoration ecology, environmental monitoring, or preparation for graduate study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic preparation includes coursework in biology and mathematics; chemistry is recommended. Admissions decisions consider a combination of academic record, personal statement and any relevant experience.

Specific requirements commonly include:

• Completed high-school diploma or equivalent with satisfactory grades in science and maths subjects.
• Recommended prior subjects: biology, chemistry, mathematics (algebra/pre-calculus) and English.
• Personal statement outlining interest in natural resources and any related experience (volunteer work, fieldwork, laboratory experience).
• Some applicants may be asked for references or an interview; mature applicants and those with relevant work experience are encouraged to apply.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across government, non-profit and private sectors involved in land and water management, biodiversity conservation and environmental assessment. Common career paths include:

• Conservation scientist or ecological consultant working on habitat assessment and restoration projects.
• Natural resource manager or land steward for federal, state or local agencies, land trusts and parks.
• Wildlife or fisheries technician conducting population monitoring and field surveys.
• GIS or environmental data analyst supporting planning, inventory and monitoring work.
• Environmental educator or outreach specialist with community organisations and nature centres.
• Research assistant or technician positions that lead into postgraduate study (MSc/PhD) in ecology, conservation science or environmental management.

The programme’s emphasis on field skills, GIS and a supervised research project helps graduates demonstrate practical competencies sought by employers and to prepare for professional certification pathways or advanced academic study.

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine University offers small-class teaching that emphasises student–faculty interaction and hands-on learning. Students benefit from accessible laboratory time, field-based courses and opportunities for faculty-mentored research, which are central to this applied degree.

The university supports internship and community partnerships that place students with regional conservation agencies, environmental consultancies and non-profit organisations, providing practical workplace experience. Strong emphasis on a broad liberal-arts education means graduates develop communication, quantitative and ethical reasoning skills valued by employers and postgraduate programmes.

Overall, the programme is designed for students who want a well-rounded science degree with direct preparation for conservation work, environmental monitoring and further research in natural resources and ecology.