Bachelor of ScienceBiodiversity, Ecology & Conservation

Professor explaining camera work to students in an Ecuador jungle.
three young girls near a fruit tree reaching out to inspect the tree flowers

About the BEC Major

The BEC major at 91´óÉñèÏÈÉúǧÈËÕ¶ is designed to immerse students in the natural world through integrative hands-on learning and conducting field research. Courses in the BEC major will ensure that students have exposure to basic principles in the biological sciences, which is followed by courses in evolution, ecology, genetics, and organismal studies.   The program incorporates elements of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and geographic information systems that will provide students with a foundation to succeed within the program and in their future careers.

In addition to the university core, students earning a Bachelor of Science in Biodiversity, Ecology, and Conservation must complete a 16-credit-hour biology core, 26 hours of upper-level courses, and a series of allied courses in chemistry, mathematics, and physics.  Within the overall guidelines set by the major, students have flexibility to select upper-level courses that fit their interests.

Experiential LearningReal World Skills

Students in the BEC major will develop the skills to critically evaluate experimental data and to perform research out in the field.  In addition to course work, students in the BEC major have opportunities to perform undergraduate research with faculty within the department. Additionally, students have opportunities to research and intern with Florida State Parks, City of Jacksonville, Florida Fish and Wildlife, White Oak Conservation, Florida Department of Environment, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, and many more.

Potential CAreer Pathways

  • Fish and Wildlife agent
  • Zoologist
  • Parks and recreation specialist
  • Wildlife biologist
  • Natural resource manager
  • Botanist
  • Field ecologist
  • Environmental consultant
  • Field naturalist
  • Environmental analyst
  • Field/research technician
  • Conservation education
  • Public Outreach

Contact Us

Dr. Nisse Goldberg

Professor of Biology & Marine Science

goldberg-ngoldbe@ju.edu

Office location  Reid Medical Science Center, 211

Dr. John Enz

Professor of Biology

jenz@ju.edu

Office location  Reid Medical Science Center, 110

Dr. Natasha Vanderhoff

Associate Professor of Biology and Marine Science

nvander4@ju.edu

Office location  Reid Medical Science Center, 203

Ready to Dive In?

Take the first step in earning your degree in Biodiversity, Ecology & Conservation (BEC) by submitting your 91´óÉñèÏÈÉúǧÈËÕ¶ application today.

Apply Now

Contact Information Department of Biology and Marine Science

Phone: (904) 256-7766

Quick Links