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Evolutionary Biology M.S. (Ithaca)

Field of Study

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Program Description

The Graduate Program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology offers students rich opportunities to study organic diversity, including its origins, maintenance, and consequences. The program provides broad exposure to concepts and research approaches in ecology and evolution, alongside in-depth study in one or more subdisciplines. Students pursue research questions that address fundamental issues in basic and applied sciences, spanning a wide range of spatial and temporal scales and employing experimental, observational, theoretical, statistical, molecular, and chemical approaches. Some students focus on Discipline-Based Education Research to develop evidence-based knowledge and practices to improve STEM education.

Each student’s course of study is tailored to their individual goals and interests. The program emphasizes broad, integrative thinking and encourages students to be both interdisciplinary and independent. It is particularly well suited to those who can take full advantage of Cornell’s expansive intellectual and technological resources in the life sciences and related fields.

Excellent laboratory and nearby field facilities are available, along with extensive collections and libraries.

*The field does not usually admit students for a terminal M.S. degree.

Contact Information

Website: https://ecologyandevolution.cornell.edu/graduate
Email: eebgradfield@cornell.edu
Phone: 607 342-0581

Cornell University
Ithaca, NY  14853

Concentrations by Subject

  • ecological genetics
  • paleobiology
  • population biology
  • systematics

Tuition

Visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadlines:

Fall, Dec. 1; no spring admission

Requirements Summary:

Learning Outcomes

A candidate for a research Masters degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology is expected to demonstrate a general knowledge in chosen discipline (Ecology, Evolutionary or Organismal Biology, or some combination), deeper knowledge in the chosen sub-discipline (e.g., Ecosystem Biology, Community & Population Ecology, Evolutionary Genetics, Macroevolution, Systematics, Molecular Evolution, or some combination), and make a strong, publishable contribution to the subdiscipline in a timely fashion.

Proficiencies

Demonstrate a general knowledge in the discipline of Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Organismal Biology, or some combination

Make a strong, publishable contribution to the sub-discipline

  • Produce new knowledge and write up contribution

Demonstrate strong research skills

  • Be knowledgeable of historical development and able to articulate and discuss concepts and evidence in sub-discipline
  • Be knowledgeable of organisms and ecological or evolutionary systems pertinent to research
  • Develop knowledge of observational, experimental and analytical methods
  • Adhere to ethical standards of scientific research
  • Demonstrate ability to communicate research findings, through oral presentation and written publications