Major in Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology

Program Overview

The Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology major at Colorado State University provides a comprehensive education in wildlife ecology, conservation, and sustainability. Through hands-on learning, research opportunities, and professional mentoring, students prepare for careers in natural resource management, including positions in federal and state agencies, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and the private sector. The program emphasizes problem-solving, communication skills, and the importance of outreach in addressing the challenges faced by natural resource professionals.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology major at Colorado State University is designed for students interested in understanding wildlife and their habitats. It offers three concentrations: Conservation Biology, Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, and Wildlife Biology. The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in biological, physical, and social sciences, focusing on solving current and future issues related to conservation and sustainability of wild animals and their habitats. The faculty boasts a wide range of expertise and a keen interest in innovative teaching and research methods. The program prepares students for professional careers in fish, wildlife, and conservation, including positions in federal and state agencies, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, academic institutions, and graduate school. Students have numerous opportunities to gain experience through research and internships, including professional and career mentoring and involvement with professional societies.

Teaching:

The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with a required summer field course at CSU's mountain campus providing students with practical experience in natural resource ecology and measurements. Additional hands-on opportunities are available in courses and study abroad programs. The faculty is known for its innovative teaching and research methods.

Careers:

The Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology major prepares students for a variety of careers in natural resource management. Common career paths include:

• Federal and state agencies: U.S. Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Geological Survey, National Park Service, Environmental Protection Agency, Bureau of Reclamation, National Marine Fisheries Service, and state departments of wildlife and natural resources.
• Non-governmental organizations: The Nature Conservancy, other environmental organizations.
• Private companies: Environmental consultants, research firms.
• Academic institutions: Researchers, teachers.
Specific career titles include:
• Fishery/wildlife/conservation biologist
• Ecologist
• Wildlife refuge or natural resource manager
• Environmental consultant
• Research scientist
• Educator
Specializations within these areas include:
• Fish, wildlife, and conservation education and interpretation
• Endangered species
• Habitat enhancement and restoration
• Administration
• Research
• Law enforcement
• Fish and wildlife population assessment
• Statistical analyst
• Human-wildlife conflicts

Other:

The program emphasizes the importance of problem-solving, communication skills, and outreach in addressing the challenges faced by natural resource professionals. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, independent study/research, volunteer activities, or cooperative education opportunities to enhance their practical training and development. The degree is also excellent preparation for veterinary school.