Conservation Biology

What is a conservation biologist? Someone who loves to be outside looking at animals and plants, but who's also competent in front of a computer doing GIS and statistical analyses; someone who likes to grapple with tough ecological concepts, but whose research priorities center on questions with practical, immediate application; someone who delights in nature, and is committed to understanding the rigorous science needed to save it.

Our Conservation Biology concentration gives students the research and field skills to understand the linkages between ecology and real-life conservation issues. Central to the program is the verifying capstone. You can verify your master's level skills by conducting thesis research, producing an applied project, or by engaging in a collaborative service learning initiative. These capstones allow you to demonstrate your knowledge on how to plan, design and implement and report a substantial project. All capstones allow you to define research questions, collect conceptual and background information from related studies, identify protocols for appropriate data collection and analysis, and follow the work through to its completion.

Get your feet wet.

The Conservation Biology concentration emphasizes the importance of practical field experience. Core requirements include a mix of conceptual and practical classes, research, and practica. Graduates leave with a well-rounded education, and are able to do rigorous science and understand the social perspectives essential to forging effective conservation initiatives. By learning to link science to the conservation and management goals typical of nonprofit groups, state and federal wildlife agencies, and commercial consulting firms, Conservation Biology students are well prepared to make a real difference in the world.

Program Delivery

• 42 credits
• Begins in Fall
• Classes on Thursdays and Fridays or Fridays and weekends
• 5 semesters required to complete coursework; thesis or project work variable in duration, depending on topic