Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology

College graduates who did not major in environmental biology but who want graduate school preparation in the field should follow the curriculum designed with the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology (E3B).

The E3B Certificate Program is structured to provide the kind of academic experience that highly competitive graduate programs require of their students. In particular, the curriculum develops competency in the core sciences related to environmental biology – chemistry, biology, earth sciences, statistics, and conservation biology. Students will also take two advanced classes in ecology, evolution, organismal biology, or environmental policy.

Students who complete the curriculum with a grade of B- or better in all courses will receive an E3B certificate.

This program is primarily designed to be part-time, with students completing the certificate in four to eight terms (including summers). If started in the summer term, the program can be completed in three intensive terms (one calendar year) on a full-time or near full-time basis.

Curriculum

The E3B Certificate Program includes:

  • Two courses in Biology (including population, community, and ecosystem biology)
  • Two courses in Chemistry (can be substituted with one intensive chemistry course)
  • One course in environmental science (climate)
  • One course in statistics
  • One course in conservation biology
  • Two additional environmental biology electives

The curriculum can be adjusted for students who have already taken one or two of the basic courses.

Advising

Students in the program are advised by the Office of Student Life and Alumni Relations and by the Faculty Advisor. The structured support system offers guidance on course options, professional and graduate school preparation, and career advising.

Admissions Adviser
203 Lewisohn Hall
212-854-9666

Academic Adviser to Enrolled Students
Karl Rutter
510H Lewisohn Hall
212-854-9666
kr2456@columbia.edu

Faculty Adviser to Enrolled Students
Elisa Kate Bone
Schermerhorn Extension, 11th floor
212-851-9384
eb2801@columbia.edu

Application Information

To apply, follow the Summer Sessions application instructions for your admissions category. The E3B program also accepts students in the fall and spring through the Postbaccalaureate Studies program.