Wildlife Ecology and Conservation BS
Program Overview
Introduction to the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science
The College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science at Michigan Technological University is a community-driven institution that focuses on the study, research, and management of natural resources. With a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, the college offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs that cater to the needs of students interested in forestry, wildlife ecology, and environmental science.
Undergraduate Majors
The college offers the following undergraduate majors:
- ForestryBS
- Wildlife Ecology and ConservationBS
- Applied Ecology and Environmental ScienceBS
- Natural Resources ManagementBS
- Sustainable BioproductsBS
- Environmental Science and SustainabilityBS
- Environmental Data ScienceBS
Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Bachelor's Degree
The Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at Michigan Tech prepares students to preserve wildlife and their habitats, improving their resilience in an ever-changing world. The program focuses on the study of animal populations and how land use and management decisions affect them. Students learn about conservation science, population ecology, conservation genetics, wildlife techniques, and mammalogy, and develop skills in fieldwork, teamwork, leadership, and professional development.
Program Details
The Wildlife Ecology and Conservation program includes:
- Roaming diverse ecosystems across thousands of University-owned acres of the wild Keweenaw Peninsula
- Digitizing wolf howls, tagging birds, and tracking wildlife with radio telemetry
- Assessing, monitoring, and managing wildlife populations
- Learning about land management decisions for wildlife habitat maintenance and protection of ecosystem composition
- Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and developing skills in GPS, land measurement, and remote sensing
- Exploring undergraduate research opportunities
- Building a resume and qualifying for summer jobs in the field
- Networking with forestry professionals
Integrated Field Practicum
The Integrated Field Practicum is a semester-long field practicum that takes place at the Ford Center and Forest, located 40 miles away from the main campus. Students live, eat, sleep, and study with peers while living in dorms on the Ford Center property. The practicum includes classes such as Survey of Silviculture, Forest Health, and Wildlife Habitat, and provides hands-on experience in collecting samples, studying natural ecosystems, and learning the necessities of natural resource management.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation program can pursue careers as:
- Wildlife Biologist
- Fisheries Biologist
- Conservation Biologist
- Endangered Species Specialist
- Wildlife Refuge Manager
- Natural Resources Manager
- Wildlife Researcher
- Veterinarian
- Environmental Educator
Research Opportunities
The college has a strong passion for research, which creates professionals with hands-on experience in sustainably managing wildlife habitats. Research topics include the feeding habits of fish in the Great Lakes, arthritis in moose, and population spikes in wolves.
Student Learning Goals
Students in the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science can expect to achieve the following learning goals:
- Develop in-depth knowledge of the field of wildlife ecology and management
- Develop a strong set of field skills related to the management of natural resources
- Effectively identify and evaluate sources of information relating to wildlife ecology and management
- Provide alternative solutions to situations or problems in wildlife ecology and management
- Communicate effectively (orally and in writing) about issues related to wildlife ecology and management
- Develop behavioral skills that support a high level of professional conduct
- Develop the ability to work effectively in teams
Why Research Matters
Research is essential in creating professionals who have the hands-on experience needed to sustainably manage wildlife habitats. The college's research focus helps students find their passions and pursue careers in wildlife ecology and conservation.