Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The programme combines classroom instruction, laboratory work and extensive field experience to explore how organisms evolve, interact and are distributed across landscapes. Core areas include evolutionary theory, systematics and taxonomy, population ecology, community ecology, conservation biology and ecological modelling. Students also develop quantitative skills in statistics, population genetics, spatial analysis and ecological data analysis.

• Foundational courses in ecology and evolution, organismal biology and comparative anatomy
• Population biology and dynamics, life-history theory and demography
• Systematics and taxonomy, including molecular systematics and phylogenetics
• Field ecology courses covering sampling design, species interactions and community structure
• Applied skills: ecological statistics, experimental design, GIS and remote sensing, ecological modelling
• Laboratory courses in molecular ecology and genetics techniques
• Independent research project or honours thesis under faculty supervision
• Internships and practicum placements with parks, conservation agencies or environmental consultancies

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent. Typical preparation includes coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics; coursework in writing or communication is also helpful. Admissions consider academic record, recommendation letters and demonstrated interest in ecological or evolutionary science.

• Strong foundation in high-school science (biology and chemistry) and mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus)
• Personal statement or statement of purpose describing research or field interests
• Letters of recommendation that speak to academic potential and suitability for fieldwork and research
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional pathways
• Transfer students should provide college transcripts; preparation in introductory biology, chemistry and calculus/statistics will strengthen an application

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of careers in conservation, research, management and education, or continue to graduate training in ecology, evolutionary biology, wildlife science or related disciplines. Employers value the programme's emphasis on field skills, quantitative analysis and independent research.

• Wildlife biologist, field ecologist or ecological technician for government agencies and NGOs
• Conservation scientist, habitat restoration specialist or natural resource manager
• Environmental consultant carrying out biological assessments and impact studies
• GIS and spatial analyst specialising in ecological applications
• Laboratory technician in molecular ecology, genetics or systematics labs
• PhD or MSc study in ecology, evolution, conservation biology or related fields
• Science educator, park interpreter or outreach specialist

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers immediate access to the Colorado Plateau, high-elevation forests, desert ecosystems and protected public lands, making it an excellent setting for hands-on ecological and evolutionary study. Faculty are active in regionally relevant research and provide mentorship for undergraduate research projects, creating opportunities to participate in publishable field and lab studies.

• Extensive field-based learning supported by nearby national forests, parks and research stations
• Opportunities for internships and partnerships with federal and state agencies, conservation organisations and local land managers
• Facilities and equipment for modern ecological research, including molecular labs, GIS resources and field instrumentation
• Small-class and mentoring environment that supports undergraduate research and honours projects
• Clear pathways to graduate programmes and professional careers in ecology, conservation and environmental science