Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

This programme emphasises a blend of field-based ecological training, laboratory research skills and quantitative methods for natural resource decision-making. Core themes include ecosystem and landscape ecology, biodiversity conservation, restoration ecology, natural resource management, and the human dimensions of conservation.

• Core modules: Conservation Biology, Ecosystem Management, Restoration Ecology, Research Design and Experimental Methods.
• Quantitative and technical skills: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing and image analysis, ecological statistics and modelling, spatial ecology.
• Policy and socio-ecological modules: Environmental law and policy, natural resource economics, community-based conservation and stakeholder engagement.
• Research project or thesis: A culminating independent research project or thesis conducted under faculty supervision, often involving field data collection, laboratory analysis and quantitative data interpretation.
• Practical training: Field methods courses, laboratory techniques, and opportunities for internships or co-operative placements with regional resource agencies, NGOs or industry partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, forestry, wildlife biology, geography or a closely related discipline. Strong quantitative preparation is desirable, including coursework in statistics, calculus or ecological modelling. Admissions take a holistic view of candidates' academic records, research potential and professional experience.

• Official undergraduate transcripts demonstrating degree completion from an accredited institution.
• A statement of purpose describing research interests, professional goals and how the programme fits those aims.
• Letters of recommendation, usually two or three, from academic or professional referees who can assess research potential and preparedness for graduate study.
• A current CV or résumé highlighting relevant field, lab, research or work experience.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of English proficiency via an approved test or institutional equivalent.

Some applicants may be invited to discuss their research interests with potential faculty supervisors. Prior field experience, GIS skills or laboratory experience strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles in conservation, government, industry and academia. The programme’s emphasis on applied research and quantitative skills equips students for positions that require data-driven resource management and monitoring.

• Conservation scientist, habitat or wildlife biologist with government natural resource agencies.
• Environmental consultant or ecological assessor for private firms and environmental consultancies.
• Resource or land manager for parks, watershed authorities, forestry organisations and land trusts.
• GIS analyst or remote sensing specialist supporting habitat mapping, monitoring and planning.
• Research technician or project manager with NGOs, research institutes or university labs, or progression to PhD study and academic careers.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT is known for its applied, career-focused approach and strong industry links, including an institutional co-operative education tradition that helps students gain practical experience and professional networks. The university hosts research groups and centres working at the interface of environmental science, imaging science and sustainability, offering access to facilities and expertise in remote sensing, GIS and laboratory analysis.

• Applied training with opportunities for internships or co-op placements that connect students to regional agencies, conservation organisations and industry partners.
• Access to specialised technical resources and faculty expertise in geospatial analysis, remote sensing and quantitative ecology.
• Proximity to diverse field sites in upstate New York, enabling hands-on fieldwork across lake, forest and agricultural landscapes.
• Interdisciplinary environment that encourages collaboration across science, policy and business disciplines to tackle real-world resource challenges.