UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN–MADISON · UNITED STATES
Wildlife Ecology, PhD
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Founded by Aldo Leopold in 1939Program Legacy
- Average annual research support: $3-4 millionResearch Funding
- Focus on global wildlife conservation issuesConservation Impact
- Strong emphasis on faculty-researcher fitAdmissions Philosophy
- 3 letters of recommendation requiredApplication Requirement
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale requiredAcademic Requirement
The Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology offers doctoral education and training in Wildlife Ecology, building upon a legacy established by Aldo Leopold in 1939. The program is renowned for its research and the global success of its graduates. Graduate studies typically concentrate on areas such as behavioral ecology, population dynamics, wildlife disease, landscape ecology, conservation biology, and the human dimensions of wildlife management. The department also hosts the U.S. Geological Survey, Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, prioritizing research for state and federal conservation programs. Annual research funding averages between $3 million and $4 million from diverse sources. Admission to the PhD program is highly competitive, and not all qualified applicants will receive financial support. Graduate assistantships and fellowships are available for a limited number of well-qualified students. Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact program faculty before applying, as admission depends on a suitable fit within a research lab and a faculty member's capacity to fund the student throughout their degree. Once admitted, students collaborate closely with their major professor and an advisory committee to develop their research. Students are expected to meet the minimum admission requirements set by the Graduate School, as well as the more rigorous program-specific criteria. The application process involves submitting the Graduate School application, a supplementary application for Wildlife Ecology, a resume/CV, transcripts, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation. English proficiency test scores are also required if applicable. The department emphasizes the importance of a strong academic background and research experience.
Careers
Graduates of the Wildlife Ecology program have a strong record of success, working in diverse roles throughout the world. The program's research reputation and its connection to conservation efforts prepare students for impactful careers.
- Wildlife biologist
- Conservation scientist
- Research scientist
- Policy advisor
- Ecosystem manager
- University faculty
Frequently asked questions
- What are the minimum entry requirements for the PhD in Wildlife Ecology?
- A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) on the last 60 semester hours is required. Recommended coursework includes ecology, conservation biology or wildlife management, animal organismal biology, and genetics or evolution.
- How do I apply to the PhD in Wildlife Ecology program?
- You need to submit the Graduate School application, a supplementary application for Wildlife Ecology, unofficial transcripts, a resume/CV, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation. It is highly recommended to contact program faculty before applying.
- What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Wildlife Ecology?
- For Fall intake, the deadline for international applicants is May 31 and for domestic applicants is August 1. For Spring intake, the deadline for international applicants is October 1 and for domestic applicants is December 1.
- Is funding available for PhD students in Wildlife Ecology?
- Funding opportunities such as graduate assistantships and fellowships may be available for well-qualified students. Admission is highly competitive, and not all qualified applicants will receive financial support.
- What is the duration of the PhD program?
- The PhD program requires a minimum of 51 credits, with 32 credits in residence. Students must complete graduate-level coursework, pass various examinations including a preliminary exam and dissertation defense.
- What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
- Graduates often find success in roles such as wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, research scientist, policy advisor, ecosystem manager, and university faculty positions.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA BA/BS degree from an accredited institution is required.
Minimum GPAA minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) on the equivalent of the last 60 semester hours is required for regular admission. A post-baccalaureate degree with a GPA above 3.0 may also satisfy this requirement.
Prerequisite CourseworkRecommended coursework includes: one course in ecology (population ecology/dynamics strongly recommended), one course in conservation biology/wildlife management/natural resources policy/human dimensions of natural resources, one course in animal organismal biology (e.g., physiology, terrestrial vertebrates, ornithology), and one course in genetics or evolution. Deficient courses may be taken during the program.
Graduate School Minimum RequirementsRefer to the Graduate School: Minimum Requirements for Admission policy (UW-1241) for specific English proficiency test requirements.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to reach out to program faculty before applying to discuss research fit and potential funding. Admittance is dependent on finding a faculty mentor who can support the student financially throughout their degree program.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Bursar's Office for current tuition and fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Bursar's Office for current tuition and fees.
LivingPlease refer to the Bursar's Office for information on the cost of attendance.
Information regarding tuition and fees is available from the Bursar's Office. Funding opportunities such as assistantships and fellowships may be available for well-qualified students.
How to apply
1. Research Faculty and Program FitIdentify faculty members whose research aligns with your interests and contact them to discuss potential research opportunities and mentorship. Admission is contingent on finding a faculty advisor who can offer funding.
2. Complete Graduate School ApplicationSubmit the online Graduate School application and pay the application fee via the Graduate School's application portal.
3. Submit Supplementary ApplicationComplete the Wildlife Ecology supplementary application, which is integrated within the Graduate School's electronic application system.
4. Prepare and Upload DocumentsUpload unofficial transcripts (in PDF format) from all previously attended institutions. International academic records must be accompanied by an official English translation. Submit your resume or CV, and a Statement of Purpose (approximately two pages) detailing your graduate program objectives, career focus, and past research experiences.
5. Arrange for Letters of RecommendationEnsure that three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your academic, research, or professional qualifications are submitted online through the Graduate School's system.
6. Submit English Proficiency Scores (if applicable)If required, provide scores from an accepted English proficiency test as per Graduate School policies.
Frequently asked questions
What are the minimum entry requirements for the PhD in Wildlife Ecology?
+
A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) on the last 60 semester hours is required. Recommended coursework includes ecology, conservation biology or wildlife management, animal organismal biology, and genetics or evolution.
How do I apply to the PhD in Wildlife Ecology program?
+
You need to submit the Graduate School application, a supplementary application for Wildlife Ecology, unofficial transcripts, a resume/CV, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation. It is highly recommended to contact program faculty before applying.
What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Wildlife Ecology?
+
For Fall intake, the deadline for international applicants is May 31 and for domestic applicants is August 1. For Spring intake, the deadline for international applicants is October 1 and for domestic applicants is December 1.
Is funding available for PhD students in Wildlife Ecology?
+
Funding opportunities such as graduate assistantships and fellowships may be available for well-qualified students. Admission is highly competitive, and not all qualified applicants will receive financial support.
What is the duration of the PhD program?
+
The PhD program requires a minimum of 51 credits, with 32 credits in residence. Students must complete graduate-level coursework, pass various examinations including a preliminary exam and dissertation defense.
What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates often find success in roles such as wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, research scientist, policy advisor, ecosystem manager, and university faculty positions.