Field Sciences

Explore the Boundless World of Field Sciences at Emporia State University

What sets our programs apart

Our Field Science Programs offer a unique and immersive educational experience that sets you on a journey of discovery and exploration including studies in Ecology, Fisheries and Wildlife Management, Zoology, Physical and Earth Sciences, and Botany. In addition to coursework, opportunities for hands-on learning experiences include research collaborations with faculty and access to a diverse array of field sites.

Learning in Nature's Classroom

Our classes come alive through field trips where you will actively practice methods and observe and interact with organisms in their natural habitats, including at ESU’s 9 Natural Areas.

Research Opportunities

Join the forefront of scientific discovery with opportunities to engage in original, research collaborations with faculty. All faculty members maintain active research labs.

Global Adventures

Embark on exciting domestic and international travel for select classes. Explore exotic destinations, such as the Bahamas, in our Natural History Field Studies course. Our organismal and ecology courses and our biology clubs will take you to interesting domestic locations. Additional trips, both domestic and abroad, are always in the works.

Real-World Experience

Gain on-the-job training through internships with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local private companies, all while earning credit toward your degree.

Partnerships with Conservation Professionals

Benefit from our strong ties with agencies and organizations, such as the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, National Park Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, American Fisheries Society, and The Wildlife Society.

Extensive Collections

Explore our vast natural history collections of specimens, including plants, insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and plant and animal fossils. Dive into the world of geology and paleontology with our well-maintained museums.

Emporia State Biological Science students participating in research along the Neosho River

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Showcase your knowledge and research at scholarly meetings and conferences. Collaborate with faculty to publish in academic journals when contributing to research projects.

Our Programs

Ecology and Biodiversity

Bachelor of Science, Biology Concentration

This program is appropriate for students seeking a specialized program of study in ecology and organismal biology. As a biology major at ESU, you will be exposed to the principles which underlie this science of living things.

Fisheries and Wildlife

Bachelor of Science, Biology Concentration

With a long history of excellence in fisheries & wildlife biology, natural history, ecology, and organismal biology, including the study of fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, plants, and invertebrates, we offer outstanding opportunities for students to specialize in fisheries & wildlife, natural resource management, and wildlife law enforcement. ESU Fisheries & Wildlife Track students conduct research in fisheries and wildlife topics and train for careers in natural resources conservation.

Zoology

Bachelor of Science, Biology Concentration

This program is appropriate for students seeking a specialized program of study in zoology, emphasizing laboratory work that includes courses in physiology, organismal biology, and organic chemistry.

Biology (BA)

Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts degree is for students desiring a broad, liberal education. The flexibility of the B.A. Biology major allows students to pursue a specific area of interest within biology or complete pre-requisite requirements for a post-Baccalaureate professional program. The second program of study provides an opportunity for students to design a program of study on the interface of two disciplines.

Physical Science

Minor

The study of inanimate natural objects, a minor in physical science includes courses from each of the three subject areas - chemistry, earth science and physics.

Earth Science

Minor

Gain a broad-based background in the earth sciences. Heightened environmental awareness has led need for graduates in governmental agencies, environmental consulting, petroleum exploration, education and more.

Geospatial Analysis at ESU Pairs well with a number of programs.

Geospatial Analysis

Minor

Geospatial analysis is used to solve practical and scientific problems of the world - conduct coastal and geological surveys, evaluate natural resources, civil engineering, marketing analysis.

Undergraduate Certificate in Geospatial Analysis

Undergraduate Certificate

Geospatial analysis is used to solve practical and scientific problems of the world - conduct coastal and geological surveys, evaluate natural resources, civil engineering, marketing analysis.

Geospatial Analysis

Certificate Program

The Geospatial Analysis certificate program is a collection of courses designed to provide training and competency in geographic information systems, remote sensing, global positioning system (GPS), and related technologies. The GSA graduate certificate may exist either within or independent of traditional graduate majors.

Students researching during Aquatic Biology class

At Emporia State University, we nurture your passion for the natural world, helping you build a solid foundation in the field sciences and providing you with the tools and experiences needed for a successful career. Join us on this exciting journey of discovery.

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