Chatham University

What you'll study

This degree combines foundation science courses with applied conservation training and independent research. Core subjects typically include ecology, conservation biology, soil and watershed science, wildlife management, and ecosystem restoration. Students learn quantitative skills through courses in statistics for ecology, experimental design and geographic information systems (GIS), and gain laboratory experience in ecology and environmental chemistry.

• Foundations: introductory biology, general chemistry, and environmental science to build a core understanding of physical and biological processes.
• Ecology and conservation: population and community ecology, conservation genetics, endangered species management, and habitat restoration techniques.
• Natural resources and policy: natural resource economics, environmental law and policy, land use planning, and sustainable resource management.
• Technical skills: GIS and remote sensing, ecological field methods, biomonitoring techniques, and statistical analysis for environmental data.
• Research and capstone: independent research projects, capstone seminars, and opportunities to present findings; many students complete field-based internships or practicum placements.

Courses emphasise experiential learning: regular field trips to regional forests, wetlands and watersheds, laboratory analyses, and collaborative projects with community partners and conservation organisations. Electives allow focus on aquatic systems, urban ecology, restoration ecology, or conservation policy.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic preparation includes coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus) and English. Successful candidates demonstrate strong preparation in the sciences and an interest in outdoor or laboratory work.

• Academic record: competitive high-school grades in science and maths subjects.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement outlining interest in natural resources and conservation, and at least one academic or employer reference are commonly required.
• Standardised tests: Chatham’s admissions policy may consider standardised tests as optional; applicants should check the current admissions guidance for details.
• International applicants: evidence of English proficiency (for example IELTS or TOEFL) and evaluation of international credentials as required.
• Non-traditional applicants: transfer students or applicants with relevant work or volunteer experience in environmental fields are encouraged to apply and should submit transcripts and documentation of experience.

Career prospects

Graduates typically pursue careers that combine ecological science with practical resource stewardship. Common roles include conservation scientist, wildlife or fisheries biologist, ecological restoration specialist, environmental consultant, natural resource technician, and GIS/data analyst for environmental applications.

Other pathways include positions in federal, state and local natural resource agencies, non-governmental conservation organisations, environmental education, land trusts, and private-sector firms working on habitat assessment, environmental impact assessment, or sustainable land management. Graduates also go on to postgraduate study in ecology, natural resources management, environmental science or law and policy.

Why study at Chatham University

Chatham’s programme is delivered by faculty with expertise in ecology, conservation biology and environmental practice, and emphasises field-based, experiential learning. Small class sizes support close mentoring, and students have access to hands-on training through regional field sites and on-campus laboratory facilities.

The university’s location offers ready access to varied ecosystems — urban green spaces, rivers and nearby forested areas — enabling applied projects and internships with local conservation organisations, municipal agencies and research partners. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach also connects science coursework with policy, planning and sustainability, preparing graduates to work at the interface of ecology and resource decision-making.