Overview

The Ecology and Environmental Science programme at South Dakota State University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how the earth functions and how humans interact with natural systems. This interdisciplinary course focuses on the complex relationships between organisms and their environments while developing practical solutions for modern environmental challenges.

Students engage in a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with hands-on laboratory and field-based science. The programme is designed for those who enjoy working outdoors and are passionate about protecting habitats, managing wildlife, and resolving ecological questions through scientific enquiry and collaborative problem-solving.

Why Ecology and Environmental Science at South Dakota State University?

South Dakota State University offers a distinctive learning environment where students benefit from direct access to diverse natural landscapes and specialised research facilities. The institution maintains strong professional links with state and federal natural resource agencies, providing students with unique networking opportunities and exposure to real-world conservation practices.

The department emphasises practical experience, encouraging students to participate in research projects and internships that enhance their professional profiles. With a focus on both plant and animal ecology, the university ensures that graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce as skilled scientists ready to make a positive environmental impact.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 387 per credit
National fee: USD 387 per credit
Local fee: USD 267 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers a broad range of subjects essential for understanding natural resource management and ecological systems. Modules may include:

Ecology
Environmental Science
Botany
Rangeland Ecology and Management
Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences
Conservation Planning
Geographic Information Sciences
Natural Resource Law Enforcement

Careers with Ecology and Environmental Science

Graduates are highly sought after by various sectors, including government agencies, private industry, and non-profit organisations. Many students secure roles immediately after graduation or choose to pursue advanced degrees in conservation, ecology, or environmental science to further specialise their expertise.

Common career paths for graduates include:

Environmental Consultant
Restoration Ecologist
Environmental Scientist
Research Scientist
Natural Resource Specialist

Recent alumni have successfully gained employment with prestigious organisations such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and various state departments of natural resources. Others have found rewarding careers within private consulting firms and municipal environmental offices.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Integrated Natural Resource Management and Lab
General Biology and Lab
Animal Diversity and Lab
Bioethics
Environmental Ethics
Organic and Biochemistry and Lab

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00 , International

More details

National: SDSU accepts applications on a rolling admissions timeline.

Language

English

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IELTS

5.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Brookings, United States

Disciplines

Ecology Environmental Sciences View 271 other Bachelors in Ecology in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

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IELTS

5.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

For admission to SDSU, we look for one of the following academic achievements:

An ACT composite score or ACT superscore of 18 or SAT Math and Reading/Writing subscore total of 970 or
Level 3 or higher on Math and English Language Arts Smarter Balance Assessment or
A high school cumulative GPA of 2.6 or higher or
A ranking in the top 60 percent of graduating class.

Students should also complete the following core courses with a “C” average or above:

4 years of English (or ACT English subscore of 18 or above).
3 years of advanced math—Algebra I and higher (or ACT math subscore of 20).
3 years of laboratory science (or ACT science reasoning subscore of 17).
3 years of social science (or ACT reading subscore of 17).
1 year of fine arts (or AP Fine Arts score of 3 or above) Includes vocal, instrumental and studio arts.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Out-of-State

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8010 USD / year

≈ 8010 USD / year

Additional Details

Minnesota Resident: $312.25 per credit.

Living costs

Brookings

United States

1085 - 1888 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Ecology and Environmental Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Brookings

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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