Global disease ecology
Bachelor of Science
Overview
Related Topics
Understand disease dynamics
Studying global disease ecology will advance your understanding of the societal, environmental and personal impacts of diseases that impact plants, animals and humans living together in complex ecosystems. Your understanding of the connections among organisms and species in diverse ecosystems — from agricultural landscapes to global megacities to managed natural areas — builds from example-based study of disease causes and consequences and solutions from the past and present.
The integrated curriculum develops your ability to solve complex problems in real-world scenarios to advance creative and critical thinking skills. The program includes a senior research practicum and a flexible advanced curriculum, both of which you will design with a faculty mentor to match your career interests and maximize career prospects.
A degree in global disease ecology is perfect if you’re interested in traditional health careers, health policy and regulation, global and public health, animal welfare, plant pathology, microbiology, food and water quality, sustainable agriculture, sustainable forestry or environmental protection.
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in biology and other sciences
- Enjoy researching and working in a lab setting
- Like the independence of setting your own goals
- Want to solve complex health and environmental challenges
Following the path to a better world
Curriculum
The B.S. in global disease ecology is a 120-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
View the sample four-year plan for this degree
Explore program courses in the University Catalog
Learning outcomes
- Understand the evolution, transmission and epidemiology of diseases
- Define disease causes across diverse species
- Recognize how environmental changes and ecological factors affect disease transmission
Hands-on learning
- Develop a research proposal and conduct your own experiments
- Get your research published
- Create your own curriculum with a faculty mentor
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,707 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Environmental Restoration Planners • Climate Change Analysts • Industrial Ecologists • Environmental Scientists and Specialists
$92,730 - Conservation Scientists
$76,794 - Forest and Conservation Workers
$42,771 - Environmental Science Technicians
$61,322 - Environmental Economists
$113,001
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Clubs
- Aldrich Entomology Club
- Environmental Science Club
- Pre-Med/PA Club
- Pre-Vet Club
- Plant and Soil Science Club
Financial aid and scholarships
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.
Application instructions
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.
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
Request more information
Connect with program faculty
Addressing mosquito populations
CALS student Reagan Haney researched how changes in mosquito diet can help decrease the number of eggs they lay.