Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Program Description:

The Bachelor of Arts in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Dartmouth College offers students a comprehensive understanding of the biological processes that shape the diversity of life on Earth. This program integrates principles from ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, and organismal biology to provide a well-rounded perspective on the mechanisms driving biological diversity, adaptation, and the interactions between organisms and their environments. Students engaging in this major will develop critical thinking skills, laboratory experience, and fieldwork expertise necessary to explore ecological systems and evolutionary processes at multiple scales, from molecules to ecosystems.

The curriculum emphasizes a combination of theoretical foundations and empirical research. Core courses cover topics such as population genetics, evolutionary theory, organismal biology, ecological interactions, conservation biology, and environmental science. Students have the opportunity to participate in laboratory experiments, field projects, and independent research, often working directly with faculty experts renowned for their contributions to ecological and evolutionary studies. This hands-on experience prepares graduates for further research, advanced study, or careers in environmental consulting, wildlife management, conservation, and related fields.

Dartmouth’s interdisciplinary approach fosters a deep appreciation of the complexity of biological systems and the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship. The program encourages active participation in research initiatives, summer field courses, and collaborations with local and international ecological organizations. Graduates of the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program are well-equipped to pursue graduate studies or professional careers in conservation biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, genetics, and other biological sciences, contributing to the understanding and preservation of the natural world.

Program Description: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Dartmouth College

The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program at Dartmouth College offers students an in-depth understanding of the natural world through the study of organisms, ecosystems, and evolutionary processes. This program combines rigorous coursework in biology, ecology, genetics, and evolutionary theory with hands-on research and fieldwork opportunities, preparing students for diverse careers in science, conservation, environmental policy, and academia.

Students will explore the principles of ecology, including population dynamics, community interactions, and ecosystem functioning. The curriculum emphasizes the genetic and molecular basis of evolution, adaptation, and speciation, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of how organisms evolve over time. The program also integrates courses in organismal biology, comparative anatomy, physiology, and biodiversity, ensuring a well-rounded education in biological sciences.

Research plays a central role in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program. Students are encouraged to participate in original research projects under the guidance of faculty members who are experts in their fields. These projects often involve fieldwork in local and international ecosystems, laboratory experiments, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program fosters critical thinking, quantitative skills, and a strong foundation in scientific methodology.

Dartmouth’s commitment to experiential learning is reflected in numerous field courses, internships, and collaborations with conservation organizations, government agencies, and research institutions. Students have the opportunity to study diverse habitats, from forested landscapes to aquatic environments, gaining practical skills in ecological sampling, GIS mapping, and environmental assessment.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue graduate studies in ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation biology, or related fields. They are also prepared to enter careers in wildlife management, environmental consulting, research, and education. The program’s interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on research and fieldwork ensure that students graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for addressing today’s environmental challenges.

Overall, the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program at Dartmouth College provides students with a comprehensive education that combines theoretical foundations with active research and experiential learning, fostering the next generation of scientists dedicated to understanding and protecting the natural world.

The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the biological processes that shape the diversity of life on Earth. The program requires students to complete a set of core courses, electives, and research components to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students are expected to take foundational courses in general biology, cell biology, and genetics, which establish the fundamental principles necessary for advanced study. Specialized courses include Ecology, Evolution, Biodiversity, and Animal Behavior, among others, to explore various aspects of organismal and environmental biology.

Research experience is a significant component of the program, with students encouraged to participate in laboratory and field research projects under faculty supervision. This hands-on approach aims to enhance critical thinking and experimental skills vital for careers in biological sciences, conservation, and academia. Students may also have the opportunity to engage in interdepartmental courses related to biostatistics, environmental science, or geographical information systems to broaden their interdisciplinary understanding.

To graduate with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, students typically need to complete a minimum of 35 to 40 courses, including required introductory courses, advanced electives, and a capstone project or thesis. The program emphasizes the development of scientific communication skills, encouraging presentations, written reports, and participation in scientific conferences. Additionally, students are advised to gain practical experience through internships or fieldwork opportunities offered locally or nationally.

The program fosters a collaborative academic environment, with small class sizes enabling close interaction with faculty and peers. This setting supports personalized mentorship and guidance for students pursuing research or career pathways in ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation, or related fields. Overall, the program aims to prepare graduates with a strong scientific foundation, research proficiency, and critical analytical skills necessary for addressing global biological challenges.

The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program at Dartmouth College offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Undergraduate students enrolled in the program can access need-based financial aid, which is primarily determined through the college’s comprehensive financial aid application process. Dartmouth commits to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, ensuring that financial circumstances do not hinder access to the program. This includes need-based grants, which do not require repayment, and are designed to make education affordable for all qualified students, regardless of economic background.

In addition to need-based aid, students may explore merit-based scholarships, although these are limited specifically within the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology track. Many students finance their studies through a combination of grants, loans, and work-study opportunities offered by the college. Dartmouth’s financial aid office provides personalized assistance to help students navigate available resources, complete the necessary paperwork, and maximize their awards. The college also offers work-study programs that enable students to gain valuable work experience while earning funds to offset their educational expenses.

Students from outside the United States are encouraged to apply for international financial aid programs, which may offer grants or scholarships based on merit or specific criteria. Dartmouth’s Endowed Trust funds also support certain students with special circumstances or outstanding academic achievements within the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program. Furthermore, students are advised to seek external scholarships and funding opportunities provided by private foundations, government agencies, and environmental organizations focused on ecological research and conservation efforts.

The program’s overall financing structure aims to ensure that students interested in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology can pursue their academic interests without financial barriers, emphasizing Dartmouth’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. Borrowing options are available for students who require additional funding, with the understanding that they will need to repay these loans after graduation. Financial planning resources are provided to help students understand their obligations and manage debt responsibly. Overall, the combination of institutional aid, external funding opportunities, and work programs creates a comprehensive financial support system tailored to the needs of students in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program.

The Bachelor of Arts in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Dartmouth College offers students an in-depth understanding of the natural world through the study of the processes that shape living organisms and their environments. The program emphasizes an integrative approach, combining principles from biology, geology, ecology, and evolutionary science to explore the diversity of life on Earth and the mechanisms driving its change over time. Students engage in rigorous coursework that covers topics such as organismal biology, genetics, ecology, conservation biology, evolutionary theory, and environmental science. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in scientific research, environmental policy, conservation, and related fields.

Among the program’s features is a strong emphasis on experiential learning. Students have opportunities to participate in fieldwork, internships, and research projects, often collaborating with faculty on ongoing scientific investigations. The department encourages students to develop a solid foundation in scientific methods, data analysis, and statistical techniques, which are essential for interpreting complex biological data. Additionally, the major requires students to complete a senior thesis, allowing them to undertake independent research under faculty mentorship, culminating in a comprehensive scientific report.

Dartmouth's unique academic environment fosters close interactions between students and faculty, providing personalized mentorship and opportunities for collaborative interdisciplinary projects. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding ecological and evolutionary processes in the context of current global issues such as climate change, habitat destruction, and species extinction. Graduates of the program often pursue advanced degrees in ecology, evolutionary biology, environmental science, or related disciplines, or go directly into careers in research, environmental consulting, education, and policy-making. Dartmouth's commitment to a liberal arts education ensures that students develop not only technical scientific skills but also critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and communication abilities, all valuable in solving complex environmental challenges.