Biodiversity at local, regional, and global scales currently faces unprecedented threats from pressures including climate change, invasive species, and habitat alteration. Our conservation and restoration program prepares tomorrow's leaders to develop and implement effective strategies to protect and restore natural ecosystems. Students explore ecological principles, how humans interact with and impact ecosystems, and methods of repairing environmental damage.<br>Our location at the confluence of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan is ideal for conservation studies.<br>Our unique ecology campus (LUREC), where you'll get your hands dirty restoring the campus to its natural habitat.<br>World-class institutions, including the Field Museum and Lincoln Park Zoo close to campus.<br>Diverse, interdisciplinary faculty with hands-on research experience.<br>A program that integrates research with social justice and a responsibility for ethical practices in the field.<br>Study abroad programs, including the unique ecosystem of Belize.<br>YOU'LL HAVE RARE OPPORTUNITIES IN:<br>Avian Relief Rescue - where you'll research the ecology as it relates to bird conservation. Bird Conservation Network the largest of its kind in the U.S.Restoration work days at LUREC, where you'll get your hands dirty restoring the campus to its natural habitat.<br>Environmental and conservation groups regularly come to LUC/SES for students and future employees<br><br>This program helps prepares students for careers or advanced study in:<br>Government agencies<br>Conservation focused non-government organizations in consulting, outreach and extension or industry<br>The pursuit of advanced study in ecology, conservation, natural resource management, or other areas that involve interactions between human and natural systems.