Have you ever wondered about the history of life on earth? When and where did a species originate? How did it evolve? How do populations of one species become different species? What controls where a species is found and how abundant it is?

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology seeks to answer such questions and its applications make significant contributions to society.

Delve into the many intriguing problems in evolution, ecology and biodiversity. The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology major integrates knowledge from a range of exciting and interesting disciplines, from genetics (through organismal biology) to ecosystem science. You will develop skills in the survey, experimentation and modelling of ecological and evolutionary processes, and discover how evolutionary ecology can be applied to solve current problems in evolution, ecology and biodiversity.

You can choose to specialise in Ecology, Conservation Ecology, or Evolution and Biodiversity.

Emily McColl-Gausden

"I loved the outdoors and environment growing up (fueled I think by a love of David Attenborough documentaries) so I always knew the general science direction I was heading in. A highlight in my third year was the field trips, as I found these not only cemented the concepts we were learning about in lectures but also provided a way to get to know fellow students and staff members."

  • Career Outcomes

    You can pursue careers or research in the areas of ecology, conservation biology, animal behaviour, evolutionary biology, systematics and biodiversity, and environmental consulting.


    Helen Lawrence

    "I would love to become an integral part of an ecological consultancy firm. It would be extremely fulfilling for me to be able to educate people about ecology, environmental science and conservation, whilst undertaking projects of my own."

  • Graduate Pathways

    Bachelor of Science graduates with a major in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology are well-placed to apply for:


Sample Course Plans
Majoring in  Ecology and Evolutionary Biology


Major Core Prerequisite
Major core
Complementary / Recommended
Major Selective Prerequisite
Major Selective
Breadth subject / Science Elective