From studying wildlife in the field, to working in environmental conservation, healthcare or museum curation, an organismal ecology degree from Southeast Missouri State University opens doors to an enormous variety of careers. The Organismal Ecology and Evolution program is one of SEMO’s standout biology programs, offering students a unique blend of hands-on learning, faculty-led research and field-based experiences to prepare them for careers in biology.
Organismal ecology students explore courses like ornithology, herpetology, zoology, plant biology, and the newly introduced biological collections class that introduces students to careers in natural history collections. These opportunities allow students to develop real-world experience and the practical skills needed for careers in ecology, museum curation or environmental science. Students in this program can also pursue careers in zoology, studying animal behavior, physiology and conservation. 
“Our location makes a big difference for hands-on experiences,” said Dr. Jason Henry, assistant professor of biology at SEMO. “Our access to the Mississippi River, Ozark Forest and wetland ecosystems is great for field research and internships with conservation organizations and government agencies.”
SEMO provides extensive student support through personalized advising, career placement services and research opportunities. Faculty mentors guide students’ research, helping them develop technical skills, present at conferences and publish their findings. Current research includes studies on plant cell wall structures and their role in plant development, as well as a field study on the diverse flora of local natural areas. These projects offer students direct involvement in biological research, enhancing their analytical and fieldwork skills.
Prospective students looking for an affordable, high-quality education with abundant research and fieldwork opportunities will find SEMO’s organismal biology program an excellent choice. With small class sizes, dedicated faculty and access to diverse ecosystems, SEMO provides students with the tools to succeed in biology careers.
For more information about SEMO’s biology programs, visit semo.edu/biology.