Department of Biology
- Tropical Conservation and Development
- Wetland Sciences
The Department of Biology offers graduate programs in Zoology leading to the Master of Science in Teaching, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
Our program emphasizes Integrative Biology, with integration accomplished through a focus on the theoretical foundations provided by evolutionary biology and ecology. Our faculty has expertise in ecology, evolution, behavior, comparative and environmental physiology, genetics, development, and phylogenetics. We work in a variety of terrestrial and aquatic environments and geographic regions (tropics through subpolar), and on a range of organisms (including plants). Our faculty value integrative research (e.g., by crossing levels of organization from gene expressions to species interactions), linking theory with data (through use of statistical and mathematical tools), and using natural history to guide the development and testing of rigorous conceptual frameworks. Many of our faculty also are interested in applying and testing basic science in applied contexts (e.g., conservation biology and ecotoxicology).
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Learn to develop strategic action plans that help solve challenging conservation issues. Prepare to apply action-oriented methods to your conservation work and adopt a systems-thinking approach.
Our master’s degree is designed to help wildlife professionals protect and manage a changing world while promoting, teaching, and practicing sustainable conservation.
Prepare to lead the management of natural resources and keep up with rapid changes in applications and methodology by earning an Ecosystem Management degree or certificate online through Penn State World Campus.