Protect ecosystems. Study biodiversity. Make an impact.

Arcadia University’s Conservation Biology major prepares you to address some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges, from habitat loss and climate change to wildlife conservation and ecosystem restoration. Through hands-on fieldwork, lab research, and data-driven analysis, you’ll develop the skills needed to protect natural systems and the communities that depend on them.

In the program, you’ll build a strong foundation in ecology, evolution, genetics, and environmental science while gaining experience in data analysis, research methods, and scientific communication. Advanced coursework in areas such as conservation biology and climate change, combined with training in statistics or data science, equips you to understand and respond to complex environmental issues.

As demand grows for professionals who can tackle climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable resource management, Arcadia prepares you to be part of the solution, both locally and globally. Located near Philadelphia, the University offers access to a vibrant network of environmental organizations, research institutions, and conservation agencies, providing valuable opportunities to apply your learning in real-world settings.

Why Study Conservation Biology at Arcadia?

Career-focused from day one
This major is designed to prepare you for careers in environmental science, conservation, and natural resource management immediately after graduation, or for advanced study in graduate school.
Learn by experiencing
You won’t just study ecosystems—you’ll explore them. Fieldwork, lab research, and course-based research experiences are built into the curriculum.
Strong scientific foundation
Build expertise in ecology, evolution, genetics, and environmental science while developing critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.
Flexible and interdisciplinary
Pair your biology coursework with data science, statistics, or environmental economics to expand your career options.

Real-World Career Preparation

Hands-on learning is central to the program, with fieldwork, lab research, and course-based research experiences integrated throughout, ensuring you graduate with the real-world skills employers and graduate programs expect. These experiences prepare you for careers in environmental consulting, wildlife and land management, conservation organizations, and field-based research, where you’ll apply scientific methods to address real environmental challenges.

The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in ecology, conservation biology, and related fields, opening pathways to advanced research and leadership roles in environmental science.

Featured Courses

Ecology

Examines the relationships between organisms and their environments, including population dynamics, community interactions, and ecosystem processes. Emphasizes field and laboratory investigation of ecological patterns and the scientific methods used to study them.

Conservation Biology

Focuses on the principles and practices of conserving biodiversity, including threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and species extinction. Explores strategies for managing ecosystems and protecting species, with attention to real-world conservation challenges and applications.

Climate Change Biology

Explores the biological impacts of climate change across ecosystems, including shifts in species distributions, phenology, and ecosystem function. Emphasizes scientific evidence, data analysis, and the implications of climate change for conservation and environmental management.

Field Biology

Provides hands-on experience studying organisms and ecosystems in natural settings. Students conduct field observations, collect and analyze data, and apply ecological concepts to real-world environments—preparing for careers in environmental science and conservation.

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