The field of ecology explores the interactive web of organisms and the environment. Studies in evolution consider the processes by which modern organisms have developed from ancestral ones. The Ecology and Evolution major is a good choice for students interested in the fundamental questions of the evolutionary origins of organisms and how they survive, or don't survive, in their changing habitats. Within this major, students have the opportunity for in-depth study of the morphological and physiological adaptations of a variety of animals, plants and microorganisms to a changing world, the ecological relationships of organisms from the individual to the global scale, and the mechanisms that drive evolutionary change.
Employment opportunities in the ecological sciences have increased greatly in recent years. There continues to be a demand for well-trained professionals at all levels (BS, MS, and PhD). Government environmental agencies, commercial consulting and testing firms, waste management industries, research laboratories, and natural history and science museums are just a few of the career opportunities. Graduate departments of ecology, evolution, environmental sciences, genetics, botany, public policy, and public health are actively seeking well-qualified students see our guide for applying to graduate schools for more information). The required chemistry, physics, and mathematics courses incorporate the requirements for admission to medical, dental, and other health-professional schools. An ecology and evolution major could also serve as a springboard to a career in law.
This major is designed to be completed in 4 academic years. Specific course sequencing cannot be changed. If you are looking for a major that can be completed in fewer than 4 academic years, we offer a BS in Biological Sciences which is much more flexible in course sequencing. Occasionally a student bringing in transfer credit may have a different timeline; please see a Bio Advisor to discuss.
- Ecology and Evolution BS Requirements
- All students within the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences must complete General Education Requirements. These courses provide breadth to your education beyond training in the Biological Sciences.
- All majors within the Department of Biological Sciences must also complete Co-requisite courses in other science departments: Chemistry, Math, Statistics, Geology, and Physics. these courses give you the scientific background to maximize your education.
- The major progress tracker below is a comprehensive list of the courses Ecology and Evolution majors must complete to obtain the B.S. degree. Review the BIOSC Courses webpage for available BIOSC electives. It is the student's responsibility to track their progress through the major and general education requirements.
- Sample Schedule
The following sample schedules are examples of a well-balanced curriculum for the three different tracks in Ecology and Evolution. We recommend students enroll in no more than 6 - 8 credits of science/math each term. Also, make sure to balance all labs across several terms.
Chemiphysical Corequisite Track
Quantitative Corequisite Track
Environmental Corequisite Track
Please note: These schedules are only a suggestion for completing a major in Ecology and Evolution. There are many other ways to organize the courses. You should work with one of our Biological Sciences Advisors to create a plan suitable for you and your specific educational plans.
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