Ecological Studies Program Requirements · Castleton University
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Ecological Studies Degree Program Ecological Studies Program Requirements Natural Sciences Department Faculty
Ecological Studies Program Requirements
For further information about this major, contact Dr. Cynthia Moulton, the Ecological Studies Coordinator: Cynthia.Moulton@Castleton.edu
The B.A. in Ecological Studies offers students an opportunity to explore the science of ecology and the environment within the tradition of the liberal arts major. The multidisciplinary curriculum cultivates a broad understanding of the interconnectedness of living organisms and environmental systems, including the interactions between humans and the natural world.
Graduates will be prepared for careers in government and non-government environmental organizations as park naturalists, research/field technicians, wildlife specialists, environmental advocacy staff, nature writers, and outdoor educators. Additionally, some students may pursue graduate programs in science education, natural resource management, and environmental law/policy.
Further, students completing the degree requirements for the B.A. in Ecological Studies will have all necessary coursework required for professional certification through the Ecological Society of America.
OR CHE 1110 - Introduction to Environmental Chemistry 3cr OR CHE 1051 - Chemistry I 4cr
-OR- GEY 1050 - The Earth through Time 4 cr
This course covers the major concepts in plant community, population, physiological and evolutionary ecology through lecture, discussion and active field and laboratory activities. One or more field trips are planned.
Prerequisite: BIO 1121, BIO 1122, and CHE 1041, CHE 1051, or CHE 1110
And complete 3 of the following courses (11-12 cr)
In this course students will investigate the form, function, and ecology of animals from an evolutionary perspective. Fundamental life processes will be considered at the cellular, organismal, population, and ecosystem levels that connect with issues relating to biodiversity and conservation biology. Two Saturday field trips are required.
An inquiry-based field course devoted to the study of local natural history. We will explore the biology and taxonomy of plants, as well as investigate Vermont's ecological communities. Field trips to off-campus locations and hikes on rugged terrain are required.
Fee Materials fee $50
Conservation Biology & Biogeography
This course covers the fundamentals of conserving biological diversity from the DNA level up to population, ecosystem, and the global scale. An overview of biodiversity along with the factors that contribute to the loss of species will be discussed.
And complete 1 of the following courses (3-4 cr):
Studying urban ecology requires a multidisciplinary approach to understand how urban areas are social-ecological systems (SES). The course will introduce students to theories, concepts, and current trends in urban ecology. The study of urban ecology centers on humans as instrumental components of and not separate from ecological systems. Using the SES framework as a foundation, the course will explore the natural, social, and built components of urban centers and urbanizing environments and how these components intersect with social welfare, governance, and ecological systems. Students will explore topics in ecology, social governance, urban design, ecosystem services, urban resiliency, and other areas related to specific student interests.
Restrictions BIO 1122
This course examines the behavior of animals as they interact with each other and the environment. Topics include anti-predator behavior, foraging behavior, territoriality, social interactions, communication, and migration. The goal of the course is to learn to think critically about animal behavior by understanding behavior on both the proximate (genetics, development and response to external stimuli) and ultimate (evolutionary) levels. In the laboratory, groups of students will design, carry out, and report on an independent research project.
At least Sophomore standing required.
Deserts contain diverse, fascinating, and unique life forms. The open desert landscapes make the amazing geology easily visible. Natural History of the Mojave Desert explores biological and geological aspects of the Mojave Desert in California. Topics include the ecology of desert systems, plant and animal adaptations to desert climates and habitats, and the geological forces that shape and maintain those habitats. The course includes a field trip to primitive areas of the Mojave Desert where hiking on rugged terrain is required. The field trip occurs in the week following commencement and the laboratory fee covers all travel, food, and lodging costs.
Fee Dependent on current travel costs, expected to be between $1000 and $1500.
Field Techniques and Current Topics in Wildlife Biology
This course is targeted for undergraduate students majoring in wildlife biology, biology, zoology, forestry, or other natural resource programs in the Northeastern U.S., especially those from programs lacking intense field-based courses. Graduate students are also welcome. The course is intended to provide students with practical, hands-on training in the tools and techniques of field biology and allow them to apply these skills in a variety of exercises. Students will summarize data from small group projects and present results to the large group and instructors. Practicing biologists from across the region will be engaged as guest instructors for certain workshops and will be invited to lead discussion sessions on current wildlife management issues and lead field trips to demonstrate wildlife and habitat management practices on the ground.
Restrictions This course is offered by the Castleton Center for Schools, special payment arrangements may apply.
Prerequisite: BIO 1141 , BIO 3060 , or permission of instructor.
Fee $850 approximately
And fulfill one of these conditions:
Complete a minor (approved by the program coordinator) in one of the many disciplines available at Castleton University.
Complete an additional 18 credits of BIO, CHE, GEY, PHY, and/or WFC courses.
Completed 2 years of relevant work experience (approved by the program coordinator) or 2 years of military service.
Completed a previous degree (either an associate's or bachelor's degree) from Castleton University or other accredited institution.
We strongly recommend that students complete an internship relating to their career goals.
The B.A. in Ecological Studies may not be combined with the BS.BIO, the BS.ENV, or a minor in Biology or Natural Sciences.