Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, MS

Program Description

Those who are interested in pursuing a Master’s degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology should have sound undergraduate training in the biological or related sciences. Initially, applicants should contact the faculty members whose research interests are closest to their own. Programs of study are designed to emphasize relationships between wild animals and their changing environments and production of aquatic organisms.

Students are required to have completed a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a natural science, with a minimum of 30 credit hours in natural sciences. Students accepted without the appropriate course background will be required to make up these deficiencies as outlined by the Graduate Student Admission Committee and consistent with University admission policies.

Students seeking the MS degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology may select a thesis or a non-thesis option. Thesis research areas may include conservation biology, wildlife management, endangered species, freshwater fisheries science and wildlife toxicology.

The non-thesis option is designed primarily for students with substantial experience in natural resources who wish to enhance their professional degree skills. The non-thesis project must be substantial in nature and result in an extended report addressing a major problem or issue relevant to the field of wildlife management, fisheries management, natural resources or environmental studies.

Combined BS/MS in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology

Under this plan, students may reduce the time necessary to earn both degrees by applying graduate credits to both undergraduate and graduate program requirements. Students should obtain specific requirements for the dual degree from the Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation as early as possible in their undergraduate program to ensure that all prerequisites are met. Enrollment guidelines and procedures can be found in the Undergraduate Announcements.