Ecology and ecosystems science
Bachelor of Science
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Understand ecosystems. Solve environmental challenges.
Ecosystems run on connections between soil, water, climate and living things. As an ecosystem ecology student, you'll trace those connections, from carbon cycling in forests to nutrient flows in rivers to the effects of wildfire on communities. You'll learn in the field, in the lab and with data, in Idaho's forests, rangelands and rivers.
You will build a strong foundation through coursework in biology, chemistry, ecology, geomatics, statistics, natural resource economics and communication with advanced study in the ecological systems that interest you most. You’ll also develop experience interpreting scientific literature, analyzing ecological data and communicating research findings to scientists, policymakers and the public.
Choose from three emphasis areas:
- Aquatic ecology: Study freshwater ecosystems through coursework in limnology, riparian and river ecology, environmental water quality, freshwater organisms, hydrology, watershed management and restoration.
- Terrestrial ecology: Explore land-based ecosystems through coursework in fire ecology, soils, terrestrial vertebrates, wildlife habitat, organismal biology and other upper-division ecology courses.
- Ecosystem ecology: Examine the processes that connect organisms, soils, climate and ecosystems through coursework in terrestrial ecosystem ecology, soil and environmental science, microbial ecology, remote sensing and climate-related topics.
With Idaho's forests, rivers, mountains and rangelands as your classroom, you'll gain hands-on experience studying ecosystems in one of the most ecologically diverse states in the country. Field experiences, research opportunities and access to faculty-led projects help you apply ecological concepts to real-world environmental challenges.
You will graduate equipped to pursue ESA's Ecologist in Training designation, giving you a credential edge in a competitive job market. Graduates pursue careers in ecology, conservation, ecosystem restoration, natural resource management, environmental consulting, climate science, watershed management, wildlife conservation and environmental policy. Many continue into master's and doctoral programs in ecology, environmental science, conservation biology and related fields.
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are curious about how ecosystems function and change over time.
- Enjoy science, fieldwork and learning in natural environments.
- Want to understand the environmental impacts of human activities.
- Like collecting, analyzing and interpreting scientific data.
- Want to combine biology with environmental and natural resource science.
- Want to prepare for graduate student or a career in environmental science and natural resource management.
- Want to specialize in aquatic, terrestrial or ecosystem ecology.
Science that sustains
Curriculum
The 123-credit Bachelor of Science in ecology and ecosystem science combines foundational study in biology, chemistry, ecology, geomatics, statistics, natural resource economics and scientific communication with advanced coursework in your chosen emphasis. You’ll develop field and laboratory skills, learn quantitative methods for analyzing ecological systems and study how ecological processes shape the distribution, abundance and diversity of organisms.
Choose an emphasis in:
- Aquatic Ecology to study freshwater organisms, rivers, watersheds, hydrology and water quality.
- Terrestrial Ecology to explore forests, wildlife habitat, soils, fire ecology and land management.
- Ecosystem Ecology to investigate ecosystem processes, climate interactions, soil ecology, microbial ecology, biogeochemistry and environmental change.
Students graduate prepared to conduct ecological research, interpret scientific information and contribute solutions to environmental challenges affecting ecosystems and natural resources.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,865 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Natural Sciences Managers • Clinical Research Coordinators • Water Resource Specialists
$153,637 - Bioinformatics Scientists • Molecular and Cellular Biologists • Geneticists • Biologists
$99,386 - Postsecondary Biological Science Teachers • Postsecondary Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers
$87,482 - Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
$82,472 - Conservation Scientists • Range Managers • Park Naturalists
$76,794
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
Build practical experience using field and laboratory techniques commonly used in ecology and ecosystem science. Coursework includes advanced field ecology, laboratory science and opportunities to apply quantitative and scientific methods to ecological questions.
You can engage in many opportunities involving natural areas through hands-on experiences in our numerous field campuses and remote research stations.
Clubs
- CNR Living, Learning Community (College of Natural Resources residence hall)
- The Wildlife Society
- American Fisheries Society
- The Society of American Foresters
- Society for Range Management
- Ecology and Conservation Biology Club
- University of Idaho Sustainability Center
- Environmental Science Club
Internships
Internships are available at Taylor Wilderness Research Station, the Rangeland Center and through our industry partners.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Learn more about STEM approved CIP/degree codes
College of Natural Resources scholarships
The College of Natural Resources administers scholarships for students in ecology and ecosystems science and related programs, awarded based on academic merit, financial need, program of study and background. You are encouraged to apply each year through the CNR advising office and the U of I Scholarships website.
Paid internship and work opportunities
All ecology and ecosystems students have access to paid internship and work positions through the University of Idaho Experiment Forest, Franklin H. Pitkin Forest Nursery, Rangeland Center and partnerships with federal agencies and consulting firms. These positions provide income alongside professional experience to strengthen your resume and build lasting industry connections.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September, and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
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Connect with program faculty
Why earn your degree in ecology and ecosystems science?
If you want to understand how ecosystems work and help solve real environmental challenges, this degree gives you the scientific and practical skills to do it. You’ll study biology, chemistry and ecology, work in the field and lab and learn to use data to understand ecological systems. Then, choose an emphasis in aquatic, terrestrial or ecosystem ecology to explore the questions and environments that interest you most. With a bachelor’s degree, you can pursue careers in ecology, conservation, restoration, natural resource management, wildlife and water resources. You can also use your undergraduate training as a foundation for advanced study through a master’s or Ph.D. in ecology, environmental science or related fields.