Ecology
Why Study Ecology at U of G?
Ecology combines a variety of disciplines, including biology, environmental science and geology, to better understand the relationships organisms, including plants and animals, have with each other and their environments.
 Address Pressing Issues
Ecologists work to address a wide variety of challenges, including the impacts of habitat loss and climate change on wildlife, and are involved with species conservation, ecosystem restoration, invasive species management, and more.
 Understand Broad Ecological Topics
Our faculty work in both land and aquatic ecosystems on a broad range of topics, including how organisms respond to changing environmental conditions, the structure and dynamics of populations and communities, and ecosystems processes.
 Go Beyond the Classroom
Immerse yourself in great field courses taking you to Algonquin Park, Churchill, Man., New Brunswick and more, and make use of incredible research facilities on campus, including the Phytotron and Hagen Aqualab.
To see all courses offered in the Ecology program, visit the Academic Calendar.
Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op
The Ecology co-op is a five-year program that includes four paid work terms. Apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to the real world, with hands-on work experiences available in private, non-profit, and governmental organizations. Benefits of co-op include:
- Up to 16 months of relevant work experience
- Earn money while you learn
- Career exploration
- Professional networking
Students can apply for the co-op program directly from high school or later for in-course admission. Learn more about the Ecology Co-op program.
Events and Webinars Available Now
Future Ready Week
Canadian high school students are invited to connect with Admission Services through several virtual events between January 7 and 15! Register today to learn more about campus, scholarships, tuition, housing and more!
International Virtual Open House
Prospective international students and their families are invited to join us on Saturday, January 18 for our International Virtual Open House where they can learn more about our programs, and campus life and hear from current students!
- Top 5 Comprehensive University
- in Canada (Macleans 2024)
- Top 150 in the World
- for Life Sciences (Times Higher Education 2024)
- Top 20% in the World
- for Biological Sciences (QS Top Universities 2024)
- Top 5 in Canada
- for Ecology (EduRank 2024)
Careers in Ecology
An Ecology major provides a strong foundation for a wide variety of careers in both public and private sectors, as well as post-graduate training in fundamental ecology, environmental biology, environmental management and policy.
Here are just a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Conservation ecologist
- Habitat conservation and restoration consultant
- Education and nature interpretation
- Environmental protection agent
- Resource management
- Scientific writer/editor
Hear From a Ecology Student and Graduates
The Ecology program is a great way to better understand the world around you. By taking various classes such as ecology, natural resource economics, and molecular biology, the program allows you to understand the complexity of the environment from a more holistic perspective. Co-op allowed me to put what I learned in class to practical use and learn from people in the environmental field. You can also customize your upper-year degree to focus on your interests!
Ecology, at its core, is a field of passion to make a positive change in the world. Many of the incredibly kind staff and fellow students will share your efforts and passions - this is what I like most about the major. Under the broad umbrella of Ecology, I gained strong knowledge in evolution, microbiology, zoology, botany, and much more, all while being super engaged by passionate professors and TAs. Ultimately, Ecology has provided me with various tools that I can competently apply anywhere, including in my career; I highly recommend this major!
Discover More Options
Students considering Ecology may also be interested in Marine and Freshwater Biology, Wildlife Biology and Conservation, or other majors.
Admission Requirements
Explore admission requirements for Canadian, international, transfer, and mature students. Start your journey today!
Scholarships & Bursaries
We offer a wide range of financial aid programs to assist with funding your education at the University of Guelph.
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