Evolution and Ecology (BS)

The study of evolution deals with both the historical path of evolution from pre-biotic Earth to the present, and the processes contributing to evolutionary change, such as natural selection, genetic drift and historical accidents. The study of ecology concerns how organisms function in their dealings with other organisms and with their environment. Ecology is one of the key sciences having to do with the broader field of conservation biology and the maintenance of biodiversity.

Why a degree in Evolution and Ecology?

Major Details

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Affiliated Departments & Centers

Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology, Department of

Associated Facilities

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Find jobs such as ecological assessment and research, in non-profit environmental organizations or working in state or federal environmental agencies. Work in zoos or aquaria, or as laboratory technicians in biological or pharmaceutical research. The major serves as an excellent foundation for pursuing graduate study in biology, particularly in the areas of evolution and ecology, or in teaching. Other students plan to enter a professional school in medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry or similar occupation.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Students interested in majoring in evolution and ecology should have a good background in biology, chemistry, physics, and math, and skills in written and verbal communication. Students with such a background will find it much easier to complete the college-level courses in the physical and biological sciences required for the evolution and ecology degree.

Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology website More Evolution & Ecology Courses Research Labs & Facilities

Careers particularly appropriate for students completing the evolution and ecology program include those dealing with the environment and conservation, such as ecological assessment and research, state or federal environmental agencies, zoos and aquaria, and conservation organizations. The evolution and ecology major also serves as a good foundation for advancement to jobs entailing a high level of responsibility, such as research scientist or manager, either through on-the-job experience or through graduate or professional study.

courses you might take:

4410: Conservation Biology

Application of ecology, population genetics, and biogeography to the study and conservation of biodiversity, threatened communities and endangered species.

5430: Fish Ecology

Behavior, migration, distribution and evolution of fishes; laboratory emphasis on ecological and systematic ichthyology.

4420: Ecology & Evolution of Mammals

Mammals of the world, their natural history, distribution, taxonomy and major anatomical and physiological adaptations; study of local species emphasized in lab.

4240: Ecology & Evolution of Plants & People

The botany and historical uses of economically important plants; topics include the major food, spice, medicinal, and industrial plants, and their domestication and cultural significance.

Beyond the Classroom

Evolution and Ecology Club

The purpose of Evolution and Ecology Club is to enhance the academic experience of Ohio State University students, faculty and staff with interests in evolution, ecology and related subjects. The club will provide students with opportunities for acquiring hands-on field experience; interacting with fellow undergraduates as well as graduate students and professionals; and gaining knowledge in a large breadth of subjects pertaining to evolution and ecology.

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Tropical Field Studies - EEOB 4420

Study abroad course in Costa Rica focusing on the diversity, biotic interactions, and effects of the environment in tropical communities, and humans in the tropics. Includes opportunities for research in tropical systems.

Museum of Biological Diversity

The Museum of Biological Diversity comprises the biological specimen collections at Ohio State and is a resource for research, teaching and outreach centered on biodiversity.

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Ohio Biodiversity Conservation Partnership

OBCP is a partnership between Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology (EEOB), School of Environment and Natural Resources (SENR) and the Ohio Division of Wildlife. Our goal is to conduct outstanding scientific research that directly benefits the citizens of Ohio by providing sound, scientifically-based advice for managing endangered species and other species of greatest conservation need in the state.

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Aquatic Ecology Laboratory

The AEL is a dynamic research group that seeks to advance knowledge and stewardship of aquatic ecosystems. The core principles of the AEL are research, collaboration, and outreach; check out the rest of the website to learn more about the AEL and how these principles guide our breadth of interests.

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