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Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Wildlife Science

Majors Overview April 20, 2014

Wildlife science, which emphasizes biology and ecology, explores concepts covering the management of ecosystems to protection of endangered species. Wildlife Science bachelor’s degree programs are offered by several higher education institutions and involve real world problems, such as environmental regulation.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Wildlife Science

Those enrolled in Wildlife Science bachelor’s degree programs are taught about the use of biological science theories in the real world management and preservation of animals and plants, such as ecosystems and endangered species. Students are required to select a study area of focus, such as wildlife or fisheries. Many courses in these programs cover the operation and management of wildlife conservatories and forest preserves.

Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma, apart from submission of ACT or SAT scores, payment of the application fee, and an essay on a specified topic.

Coursework

Coursework in bachelor’s programs in Wildlife Science includes subject areas such as English, history and geography, apart from focused courses in biology, chemistry and earth sciences. Core coursework may include subject areas such as:

•Wildlife management
•Wildlife resource policy
•Forest systems
•Fisheries science
•Fundamentals of genetics

Career Choices

Individuals who successfully complete a Wildlife Science bachelor’s degree can seek entry-level careers in government, business and agriculture. For instance, they can seek occupations in nonprofits, including the Sierra Club or Greenpeace, as well as in government organizations, including the U.S. Forest Service. They can choose from possible job options such as:

•Research assistant
•Museum educator
•Wildlife biologist
•Park Ranger
•Conservation lobbyist

Continuing Education Choices

Agencies, including the American Fisheries Society and the Wildlife Society, offer certification to wildlife science graduates. Certification titles, including Associate Fisheries Professional and Associate Wildlife Biologist, are conferred by these societies to interested individuals with at least a bachelor’s degree in relevant study areas. Higher credentials including the Certified Wildlife Biologist and Certified Fisheries Professional require work experience.

Schools offer graduate degrees in numerous subjects related to wildlife science, including ecology, marine biology and biology. Master’s and doctoral degrees in Wildlife Science are also available to students. Those interested in further opportunities for a career in management, teaching and research can continue their education by earning graduate degrees in Wildlife Science.

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