The Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology major is intended for students interested in understanding wildlife and the habitats in which they live. We offer three concentrations: Conservation Biology, Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, and Wildlife Biology. The curriculum has a strong foundation in the biological, physical, and social sciences with the focus on solving current and future issues related to conservation and sustainability of wild animals and their habitats. The faculty offers a wide range of expertise with a keen interest in innovative teaching and research methods.
Our program prepares students for professional careers involving fish, wildlife, and conservation that include federal and state agencies, nongovernmental organizations, the private sector, academic institutions, and graduate school. Numerous opportunities exist for students to gain experience through research and internships, including professional and career mentoring and involvement with professional societies to further their studies, practical experience, and career potential. Required natural science courses include general biology, vertebrate biology, botany, calculus, and statistics, while required courses in the major focus on wildlife ecology and conservation, principles of wildlife management, design of wildlife projects, conservation biology, fishery science, and wildlife data collection and analysis.