University of Kansas

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational courses in ecology and evolution with specialist training in systematics and population biology. Core topics typically include evolutionary theory, population genetics, community and ecosystem ecology, phylogenetics and classification, and quantitative methods for analysing biological data. Students take laboratory and field courses that teach experimental design, sampling methods and specimen preparation, plus statistical and computational techniques such as ecological modelling, biostatistics and use of geographic information systems (GIS).

The curriculum usually includes a mix of required core modules and electives. Typical modules and subjects include:

• Introduction to Evolutionary Biology — mechanisms of evolution, natural selection and speciation.
• Population Genetics — allele frequency dynamics, genetic drift, migration and selection.
• Ecology — population, community and ecosystem processes, species interactions and conservation ecology.
• Systematics and Taxonomy — principles of classification, morphological and molecular approaches to phylogeny reconstruction.
• Field Methods — survey techniques, sampling design, mark–recapture, and long‑term monitoring.
• Laboratory Techniques and Molecular Methods — DNA sequencing basics, molecular ecology techniques and specimen curation.
• Quantitative and Computational Skills — statistics, R programming, modelling population dynamics and spatial analyses (GIS).
• Capstone or Research Project — an independent or faculty‑mentored project, which may take the form of a senior thesis, honours research or an applied practicum.

Undergraduates are encouraged to take complementary courses in mathematics, statistics, computer science and chemistry to strengthen quantitative and laboratory skills, and to participate in field trips and study abroad opportunities where available.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Kansas undergraduate programme generally requires a completed secondary education with a strong academic record. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong preparation in biology and mathematics, and have completed courses in chemistry; prior experience in laboratory or field biology is advantageous.

Typical entry expectations include satisfactory grades in science and maths subjects, and evidence of aptitude for quantitative work. For non‑native English speakers, proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests is normally required. Transfer applicants are assessed on college transcripts and course equivalency; applicants to an honours or research track may be expected to show additional academic achievement or research interest.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for a wide range of careers in the biological and environmental sectors or for further study. Common career paths include:

• Research technician or laboratory assistant in university, government or private research labs.
• Wildlife biologist, conservation scientist or environmental consultant with NGOs, government agencies or private firms.
• Museum or herbarium roles such as collection management and curation, using training in systematics and specimen preparation.
• Data scientist or ecological modeller roles that draw on quantitative and computational skills.
• Secondary or tertiary education and outreach positions.
• Progression to postgraduate study (master’s or PhD) in ecology, evolution, conservation biology, systematics, population genetics or related disciplines.

Internships, undergraduate research and partnerships with state and federal agencies frequently help students secure employment or places on competitive postgraduate programmes.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers access to significant regional collections and research infrastructure that benefit students in ecology, evolution and systematics. The campus hosts a biodiversity institute and natural history collections that support specimen‑based teaching and research. Students can gain hands‑on experience with curated collections, molecular labs and field equipment, and pursue fieldwork across the varied habitats of Kansas and neighbouring regions.

Undergraduates at KU have opportunities to work directly with faculty on active research projects, join long‑term monitoring programmes, and participate in internships with the Kansas Biological Survey and other regional research partners. Small‑group laboratory classes, research mentorship, and a curriculum emphasising both quantitative skills and field experience prepare graduates for both professional and academic trajectories in the life sciences.