Program Overview
Colorado State University's Master of Science in Ecology program offers two options: Plan A (thesis) and Plan B (non-thesis). Students develop interdisciplinary problem-solving skills for addressing ecological challenges through courses in ecology fundamentals and tools.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science in Ecology (M.S. The program offers two options: Plan A (thesis option) and Plan B (non-thesis option).
- Plan A (Thesis Option): Students engage in independent and collaborative research under the guidance of advisors within the program. The goal is to publish their thesis work in peer-reviewed literature.
- Plan B (Non-Thesis Option): This option provides a non-thesis alternative available upon special request.
Outline:
The M.S. in Ecology program requires a minimum of 30 credits. The curriculum is structured as follows:
Required Courses:
- ECOL 505 Foundations of Ecology (3 credits)
- ECOL 571 Advanced Topics in Ecology (1 credit)
- ECOL 592 Interdisciplinary Seminar in Ecology (1 credit)
- ECOL 693 Research Seminar (1 credit)
Ecology Fundamentals (Select 6 credits not taken elsewhere in the program):
- ANTH 530 Human-Environment Interactions
- BZ 525 Advanced Conservation & Evolutionary Genomics
- BZ 526/BSPM 526 Evolutionary Ecology
- BZ 535 Behavioral and Cognitive Ecology
- BZ 548 Theory of Population and Evolutionary Ecology
- ECOL 600 Community Ecology
- ECOL 610 Ecosystem Ecology
- ECOL 620 Applications in Landscape Ecology
- ESS 660 Biogeochemical Cycling in Ecosystems
- FW 662 Wildlife Population Dynamics
- HORT 576 Advanced Environmental Plant Stress Physiology
Ecology Tools (Select 3 credits not taken elsewhere in the program):
- ANTH 554/ESS 554 Ecological and Social Agent-based Modeling
- AREC 535/ECON 535 Applied Econometrics
- AREC 635/ECON 635 Econometric Theory I
- AREC 735/ECON 735 Econometric Theory II
- CIVE 524/WR 524 Modeling Watershed Hydrology
- ESS 565 Niche Models
- FW 551 Design of Fish and Wildlife Studies
- FW 552 Applied Sampling for Wildlife/Fish Studies
- FW 663 Sampling & Analysis Vertebrate Populations
- FW 673/STAT 673 Hierarchical Modeling in Ecology
- GR 503/NR 503 Remote Sensing and Image Analysis
- MATH 530 Mathematics for Scientists and Engineers
- MATH 540 Dynamical Systems
- NR 505 Concepts in GIS
- NR 506 GIS Methods for Resource Management
- NR 512 Spatial Statistical Modeling-Natural Resources
- NR 523/STAT 523 Quantitative Spatial Analysis
- NRRT 765 Applied Multivariate Analysis
- SOCR 522 Micrometeorology
- SOCR 620 Modeling Ecosystem Biogeochemistry
- SOCR 670 Terrestrial Ecosystems Isotope Ecology
- STAR 512 Design and Data Analysis for Researchers II
- STAT 520 Introduction to Probability Theory
- STAT 521 Stochastic Processes I
- STAT 530 Mathematical Statistics
- STAT 540 Data Analysis and Regression
- STAT 544/ERHS 544 Biostatistical Methods for Quantitative Data
- STAT 560 Applied Multivariate Analysis
- STAT 675 Topics in Statistical Methods: Sampling
Other:
- The program is directed by Ruth Hufbauer and coordinated by Dawn Koschnitzki.
- Students interested in graduate work are encouraged to visit the Graduate Degree Program in Ecology website for more information.
Colorado State University
Overview:
Colorado State University (CSU) is a public research university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. CSU emphasizes a sense of community and a shared energy among students, faculty, and staff, all driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
CSU offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students are encouraged to explore their passions and discover new possibilities both inside and outside the classroom. The university boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous opportunities for students to connect with peers, faculty, and the broader Fort Collins community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Groundbreaking Research:
CSU is a leading research institution, with faculty and students actively engaged in cutting-edge projects across various disciplines.Transformative Student Body:
The university attracts a diverse and motivated student population, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.Beautiful Location:
Situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, CSU offers stunning natural beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.Commitment to Impact:
CSU emphasizes the importance of making a positive difference in the world, encouraging students to pursue careers and research that address global challenges.Academic Programs:
CSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including over 70 majors across nearly 300 programs. The university is particularly known for its strengths in:
Engineering:
CSU's College of Engineering is highly regarded, with programs in mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical engineering, among others.Agriculture and Natural Resources:
CSU is a leading institution in agricultural research and education, with strong programs in animal science, horticulture, and environmental science.Health Sciences:
CSU offers a variety of health-related programs, including nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences.Other:
CSU hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, workshops, and keynote speaker series. The university also has a strong alumni network and a vibrant community in Fort Collins.
