Wildlife and Fisheries Biology, MS

Program Description

A Master’s degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology provides students with advanced training in scientific-based conservation and management of wildlife and fisheries populations, their habitats, and broader ecological communities. Thesis research areas may include but are not limited to conservation biology, population dynamics, movement ecology, landscape and spatial ecology, habitat management, and conservation and management of endangered species.

Graduates from this program often pursue careers as biologists or managers with state or federal agencies, NGOs, or consulting companies, as extension agents, or as environmental educators or teachers. Graduates from this program are also prepared to pursue a PhD in this or a related field. Research opportunities are enhanced by cooperative programs with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Geological Survey Cooperative Research Unit at Clemson, Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Kennedy Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation Center, and other cooperators. The graduate program is accredited by the Southeastern Section of the Wildlife Society.

Students are required to have completed a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a natural science. Students accepted without the appropriate course background are required to make up these deficiencies as outlined by the prospective advisor and consistent with University admission policies. Before applying, it is recommended that applicants contact faculty members whose research interests align with their own to determine the availability of research opportunities.

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 Catalog.

Summary of Degree Requirements

Students must successfully complete at least 24 credit hours of graduate coursework plus at least six credit hours of thesis research (WFB 8910 ). Students are expected to take Graduate Seminar (FNR 8080 ) twice, or a combination of FNR 8080  and other graduate reading group or seminar courses, as approved by the Advisory Committee, for a total of two credits. Seminar or reading group classes count toward the required 24 credits of coursework. In addition to the required coursework, students eligible for graduation must complete and successfully defend a research thesis.