Environmental and Conservation Biology - B.S. Download to print

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Conservation Biology is designed for students interested in a career in the environmental sciences. This program provides an interdisciplinary education in biology and the supporting fields of geology, geography and chemistry. This major includes two concentrations: Conservation Biology and Environmental Policy and Management. 

The Conservation Biology concentration provides a strong background in applied ecology, restoration ecology and habitat management strategies used to sustain biological diversity. Students may seek employment immediately after graduation in the private, public or nonprofit sectors, or continue their education in graduate or professional programs. 

The Environmental Policy and Management concentration provides opportunities to learn about the development and implementation of habitat management methods and public policies that promote the sustainable use of natural resources and address environmental problems. Students may seek employment immediately after graduation in the private, public or nonprofit sectors, or continue their education in graduate or professional programs. 

Environmental and Conservation biologists work to sustainably manage or restore ecosystems, develop and implement environmental policies, or conduct research on how ecological processes affect biological diversity. A few examples of potential careers are wildlife ecologists, environmental educators, forest managers, environmental consultants, and personnel at public environmental regulatory or land use planning agencies. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics) Those students entering a research career will need to take courses to meet admissions requirements of graduate programs, and should consult their faculty advisor.

The Department of Biological Sciences has several mechanisms to help students prepare for their future careers. All students are strongly encouraged to complete research projects through our Individual Investigation course or an honors thesis. Others will do an internship in the area in which they plan to be employed. In addition, we offer BSCI 30105, Career Pathways in Biology, which provides students a chance to learn more about career paths and how to achieve their goals. Lastly, students are expected to meet regularly with their faculty advisor to talk about career options, get help in selecting electives and discuss ways to get experience required for their career goals.

General Admissions for Freshman Students: Admission Requirements at the Kent Campus: The freshman admission policy at the Kent Campus is selective. Admission decisions are based upon the following: cumulative grade point average, ACT and/or SAT scores, strength of high school college preparatory curriculum and grade trends.

The university affirmatively strives to provide educational opportunities and access to students with varied backgrounds, those with special talents and adult students who graduated from high school three or more years ago. For more information on admissions, visit the admissions website for new freshmen.

For more information about admission criteria for transfer, transitioning and former students, please visit the admissions website.

Minimum 120 total credit hours and 42 upper-division credit hours. Minimum 2.000 overall GPA and 2.000 major.
 

Graduates of this program will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental biological principles as outlined in specific courses. 
2. Acquire fundamental skills necessary for laboratory and field investigations. 
3. Demonstrate an understanding of proper experimental design, analysis of biological data and communication of research results. 
4. Demonstrate a greater knowledge and appreciation of the role that biology plays in societal issues, such as those related to the environment, biodiversity, ethics, human health and disease.