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Bachelor's Programs in Conservation Science
Bachelor's Programs in Conservation Science
Conservation scientists work to preserve the environment's biodiversity. Learn about the types of bachelor's degrees you could earn in this field, and review some course topics you'd study as a conservation science student. Explore some of the job options in conservation science.
What Types of Bachelor's Degrees Can I Earn in Conservation Science?
Bachelor's degree titles in conservation science include a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Conservation and Environmental Science or a B.S. in Biology with a specialization in ecology and conservation biology. In researching degree programs in this field, you should look for majors with keywords such as environmental science, ecology and conservation biology. Conservation biology is the most specific to conservation science, because this category of environmental science focuses on the preservation of biodiversity.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Degree Fields</b></td><td> Conservation science, conservation and environmental science, biology with a specialization in conservation biology</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Ecology, biology, mathematics, chemistry, environmental science</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Possible Careers</b></td><td> Conservation science officer, park ranger, teacher, conservation agency director</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td>$64,010 <i>(Conservation Scientists and Foresters)</i></td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td>5% growth <i>(Conservation Scientists and Foresters)</i></td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatWillIStudy">What Will I Study?</h3><p>Conservation science is a multidisciplinary field. In addition to general education liberal arts courses, you will engage in science and social science disciplines. The primary areas of study in conservation science include environmental science, biology, ecology, math and statistics, geography and chemistry. While several individual courses are available online, full-scale degree programs in conservation biology are not. Sample conservation science course topics include:
</p><ul><li>Biodiversity and conservation biology
</li><li>Vertebrate zoology
</li><li>Biology of global change
</li><li>Marine biogeochemistry
</li><li>Symbiosis
</li><li>Forest ecology
</li><li>Marine pollution
</li><li>Animal behavior
</li><li>Environmental politics
</li><li>Business and the natural environment
</li></ul><p>Some conservation science programs can provide you with ample research opportunities as well as internship options. Internship options typically include state departments of natural resources or the U.S. National Park Service. Zoos, nature centers and environmental non-governmental organizations may also offer internship openings.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCareersCanIPursue">What Careers Can I Pursue?</h3><p>A bachelor's degree in conservation science will prepare you for graduate studies as well as a variety of career options. If you wish to work in academia, perform field research or develop environmental policy, you will need to go to graduate school. With a bachelor's degree, you may find jobs in advocacy, conservation and education. Positions that can be pursued with a bachelor's degree in conservation science include:
</p><ul><li>Biology teacher
</li><li>Park ranger
</li><li>Conservation science officer
</li><li>Biologist - database manager
</li><li>Conservation agency director
</li><li>Herpetology field assistant</li></ul>
