Wildlife Biology and Conservation

Bachelor's Degree Program

Make the Alaska wilderness your classroom when you earn your degree in wildlife biology and conservation at UAF. This hands-on, research-intensive program gives you the chance to work closely with faculty researchers across a wide range of study areas, from molecules to ecosystems.

Study wildlife biology in habitats ranging from the dense forests of southeastern Alaska to the Arctic tundra. Take field trips on the vast network of ski and walking trails of the UAF campus, and in the areas around Fairbanks. Work one-on-one with some of the world’s top researchers and most innovative teachers.

Graduates prepare for careers in wildlife agency administration, wildlife management planning and public information and education. The degree in wildlife biology and conservation also meets the requirements for certification by The Wildlife Society.

What Is Wildlife Biology?

Wildlife biology is the study of animals and animal behavior in their natural habitat. Wildlife biologists often work in research or wildlife conservation roles, within agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They may also work in environmental research firms, zoos or in higher education. Not only do wildlife biologists serve an important role in protecting and preserving animal species, they also help to ensure the safety of human communities by studying diseases, looking for environmental hazards and more.

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Quick Facts

Degree type:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
  • Minors available in Wildlife Biology and Conservation, Forest Management and Sustainable Agriculture

Availability:

  • UAF's main campus in Fairbanks, Alaska

 

Why Study Wildlife Biology and Conservation at UAF?

UAF is one of the top research universities in the United States, and has the highest number of publications in Arctic research of any university in the world. For majors in wildlife biology, this translates into incredible opportunities for field-based learning and research you won’t find anywhere else on Earth.

Learn more about why UAF is one of the top schools for wildlife biology.

Study wildlife biology in the diverse habitats of Alaska

  • With large populations of mammals and vast ecosystems that contain large predators, Alaska offers wildlife biology majors unique opportunities for study. Spruce forest, aspen-birch forest, alpine tundra, bogs and several types of aquatic habitats are within easy reach. Alaska also has the highest concentration of jobs in the nation for wildlife biologists.

Get hands-on training and professional experience

  • Our faculty often hire undergraduate students for summer fieldwork, providing great opportunities to gain job experience and to make professional connections. Our program has close connections with the Alaska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the Institute of Arctic Biology and several local offices of the federal and state conservation agencies.

Take part in unique projects

  • For example, in one class wildlife biology majors investigate the human microbiome – a subject that integrates health, microbiology, and ecology – using state-of-the-art genetic sequencing tools.

Work closely with faculty in a broad range of research areas

  • All wildlife biology majors gain research experience prior to graduation, either in a class or by working one-on-one with a faculty mentor. Many students take advantage of paid research assistantships in the summer, working with faculty on field or lab projects.

Meet our faculty: Todd Brinkman, Biology and Wildlife

 

What Can You Do With a Wildlife Biology Degree?

Jobs in wildlife biology and wildlife conservation tackle many different types of challenges. You might work to save endangered species, develop land and water use plans, tag or relocate animals for conservation purposes or study ecosystems.

Graduates of our bachelor’s degree program have the qualifications necessary to become a Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB). They work in fields ranging from healthcare, to environmental monitoring and biology education. Many also go on to graduate study.

 

 

Wildlife Biology and Conservation Degree Requirements

The bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology and conservation provides training in the principles, methods and tools of wildlife research, management and conservation. Many wildlife biology majors also take independent study course credits to incorporate their research projects into the program requirements.

View all required classes for the degree in wildlife biology and conservation

Bachelor’s Degree Programs Related to Wildlife Biology and Conservation

 

Get Started on Your Bachelor’s Degree in Wildlife Biology and Conservation

Take the next step toward earning your wildlife biology and conservation degree. We have the resources to help you get started.

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Earn your bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology and conservation at UAF. Submit your application online today.