The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Track focuses on the diversity of life on Earth, including diversity in genes, physiology, and behaviors. Students will learn about how this diversity emerged, as plants, animals, and microbes became adapted to the environment and to each other. A wide variety of scientific disciplines are integrated within the track, including ecology, organismal biology, physiology, genetics, evolution, conservation biology, and behavior. A degree in biology with an emphasis in Ecology and Evolution will prepare students for a career in the life sciences, whether they are interested in having a deep understanding of evolutionary process, or are interested in the interactions between organisms and their environment. This can help prepare students for careers in areas such as: 1. conservation and restoration biology - addressing the impacts of climate change, developing plans for habitat conservation and wildlife protection, or other issues critical to maintaining a healthy planet; 2. working as a doctor or veterinarian; 3. science education - educating students and the public on the history and diversity of life on earth and the need to conserve it; 4. basic research in biology - helping to expand the frontiers of knowledge by studying the evolution of organisms and their ecosystems.
12 upper-level guided elective hours out of the required 13-15 hours of guided electives must be completed from the courses listed below. Of those 12 hours, a maximum of 3 hours can be independent research (BIO 394 /BIO 395 /BIO 397 ). The remaining 1-3 credit hours may come from the list of approved electives for the general biology track, which may include an additional 3 hours of independent research (BIO 394 /BIO 395 /BIO 397 ). A maximum of 6 credit hours of independent research can be counted toward the Biology degree. Of the 13-15 hours of total upper-level electives required, 9 credit hours must have a BIO prefix.