This is an archived copy of the 2018-2019 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.uwgb.edu.

Ecosystems Studies Emphasis

Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy

Students who select the Ecosystems Studies emphasis may study general features of ecosystems such as nutrient regeneration, productivity, or trophic relationships. They may also focus on specific questions related to endangered species, predation and competition. Natural, managed, and disturbed ecosystems are examined in classroom and field activities. Studies on aquatic systems take advantage of the University’s location on Green Bay, participation in the University of Wisconsin Sea Grant Program, and the on-campus Cofrin Center for Biodiversity. The University’s proximity to large areas of northern forests and the Door County Peninsula provides convenient locations for the study of diverse ecosystems. The Ecosystems Studies area of emphasis prepares students to:

  • design and conduct scientific investigations;
  • collect, evaluate, and interpret data;
  • make responsible decisions to implement appropriate technologies and strategies to solve environmental problems; and
  • effectively communicate the results of environmental studies to other scientists, decision makers and the general public.

Graduates typically work as scientists, environmental specialists, or project managers with industry, commercial laboratories, engineering firms, or government agencies, where their work involves analysis, research, consulting, compliance, or enforcement. Students who pursue the Ecosystems Studies area of emphasis are expected to have completed biology courses beyond introductory courses, typically the equivalent to a minor or major in biology (taken elsewhere or prior to entrance). These courses should include an ecology course.

Ecosystems Studies

Emphasis Prerequisites

Students who pursue the Ecosystems Studies area of emphasis are expected to have completed biology courses beyond introductory courses, typically the equivalent to a minor or major in biology (taken elsewhere or prior to entrance). These courses should include an ecology course.

Required Quantitative Course4
Environmental Data Analysis
Choose one of the following required ecology courses:3
Conservation Biology
Ecology and Management of Ecosystems
Landscape Ecology
Wetland Ecology and Management
Additional Courses - complete 9 credits9
Choose any combination from the courses listed here or above.
Biology:
Plant Biodiversity
Plant Physiology
Mycology
Field Botany
Environmental Microbiology
Ornithology
Mammalogy
Entomology
Marine Biology
Fish and Wildlife Population Dynamics
Advanced Microbiology
Environmental Science:
The Soil Environment
Hydrology
Stream Ecology
Limnology
Environmental Policy and Planning:
Environmental Planning
Environmental Law
Global Environmental Politics and Policy
Public and Nonprofit Budgeting
Environmental & Natural Resource Economics
Environmental Policy and Administration
Math and Statistics:
Social Research Methods
Applied Regression Analysis
Design of Experiments
Seminar and Special Topics:
Seminar in Ecology and Evolution
Special Topics
Internship or Thesis Option:0-9
Capstone in Environmental Science and Policy
and Internship
Thesis
Total Credits16-25