ECB Bulletin (major requirements)

ECB advising worksheet

With global climate change apparently accelerating, an understanding of ecology, ecosystems, and the measures needed to sustain Earth’s life-support systems has become increasingly important. The specialization in Ecology & Conservation Biology is designed for students seeking a greater depth of training in this critical area of contemporary biology.

Advanced electives in biology may be selected from a broad range of courses in:

  • Animal behavior
  • Behavioral ecology
  • Biology of mammals
  • Ecosystem ecology
  • Evolution
  • Forest ecology
  • Marine biology
  • Molecular phylogenetics and evolution
  • Ornithology
  • Plant biology
  • Tropical ecology
  • Vertebrate biology

In addition to these core and elective biology courses, students are encouraged to take environmental science and policy courses offered by the Department of Earth & Environment. Qualified students may also participate in Boston University’s semester-long Marine Semester, other approved off-campus field courses, and/or independent research projects with faculty during the summer or academic year.

This specialization provides students with a sound conceptual framework as well as hands-on experiences in ecology and conservation biology, preparing them for graduate study in the environmental sciences and careers in academia, government, or the private sector.

For a more detailed listing of courses and requirements for this specialization, see the Undergraduate Bulletin. For information on opportunities related to ECB, visit the Center for Ecology & Conservation Biology.

Undergraduate Student Learning Outcomes:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental principles spanning the breadth of biology, with an in-depth knowledge of the ecology of natural ecosystems and the measures needed to sustain Earth’s life support systems.
  • Demonstrate expertise in the scientific method, specifically the ability to apply the scientific method—which includes critical assessment of the scientific literature, analysis of data, and use of modeling and simulation in the understanding and communication of biology.
  • Attain the technical, analytical, and communication skills required for employment or post-graduate education in biology or biology-related careers, including professional careers and science education.