Get Your Degree!

Get information on programs from our featured schools.

Related Areas of Study

What is Wildlife Biology?

A degree in wildlife biology prepares students with the skills and knowledge necessary to understand and observe the behavior of wildlife in their natural habitats. A student wishing to study wildlife biology will learn about ecosystems and study how animals act and react in that environmental system. Many programs will incorporate classroom education with hands-on field experience, laboratory work, and research.

Zoologists and wildlife biologists are similar professions.  Both zoology and wildlife biology graduates will learn how to study the origin of wildlife, animal lifecycle, wildlife behavior, genetical composition, population structures.  Both zoologists and wildlife biologists may

  • Study wildlife in a controlled environment
  • Dissect wildlife to learn about their health and physiology
  • Collect biological data to assess environmental impacts
  • Analyze wildlife populations to help shape land use and water resource policy
  • Invest resources in wildlife conservation efforts to preserve at-risk animals
  • Work in conjunction with wildlife preserves and zoos to establish optimal environments

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$64,890

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

42.88%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

17,720

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Wildlife Biology Degree

Brigham Young University's Department of Wildlife Biology is committed to enlightening individual's knowledge of the natural world and improving their relationship with natural resources. They provide an active learning environment where individuals develop essential information and work in interdisciplinary groups to solve complex problems. Students have the opportunity to utilize the institution's cutting-edge research, leading to impactful publications. Providing experiences, examples, and perspectives that promote a global perspective to every passionate student.

Acceptance Rate

67.49

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The University of Vermont has a top ranked degree in Wildlife Biology Bachelor of Science program is deeply focused on the biology, ecology, management, and conservation of animal populations that range from species common enough to be hunted/fished to species that are threatened and endangered. The course emphasizes applied ecology and techniques for bringing populations into balance. Their four-year curriculum has an interdisciplinary wildlife science and provides a unique background for many wildlife and fisheries-related positions. Many of their students are interested in pursuing graduate school after finishing their program.

Acceptance Rate

67.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry Wildlife Biology program prepares students for careers with state and federal agencies as well as an array of domestic and international non-governmental organizations. Students have the opportunity to take advantage of ESF's field stations and provide myriad opportunities. The program is recognized nationally and internationally and their graduates are employed worldwide. Some students who excel academically will also be prepared to continue toward a graduate degree.

Acceptance Rate

69.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Hastings College has a top rated Wildlife Biology degree that covers a broad range of study while still being able to hone in on the student's specific area of interest. Students find careers as wetlands scientists, conservation directors, animal care specialists at zoos, endangered species biologists, or even park rangers. They will build upon the basic biology major by examining diverse organisms and biological phenomena. Providing essential knowledge and of the broader picture of wildlife in society. Wildlife Biology majors get internship opportunities at local and regional wildlife centers that open doors and help them build a supportive network.

Acceptance Rate

66.83

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Friends University's Conservation Biology program offers a unique cross-disciplinary program designed to prepare students to work in and around the friends of biological and natural resource conservation. The course will help students discover the nurturing and protecting the biological and natural resource ecosystems. The program is dedicated to teaching biology and ecology and travel-based classes. Students learn about wildlife rehabilitation, ecosystem management, and environmental science.

Acceptance Rate

45.81

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Washington State University offers qualified students a robust Wildlife Biology Science major combines strong science, a broad background in natural resources and the environment, with in-depth, hands-on courses to help students understand the field. The program offers an optional pre-veterinary option designed specifically to prepare students in the field. They have the opportunity to acquire cutting-edge technical skills in conservation genetics, wildlife nutrition, population modeling & geospatial analysis. Graduates are ready for careers in private industry, local, state, and federal government and graduate or professional school.

Acceptance Rate

75.8

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Liberty University's Bachelor's in Zoo and Wildlife Biology Degree students have the opportunity to study animals and their behavior as they participate in labs, fieldwork, and an optional internship. The program will prepare them to work as a zookeeper, curator, wildlife biologist, wildlife conservation officer, just to name a few. The institution's main goal is to help set up students' for a successful career in the field. Their faculty is comprised of prolific instructors with real-life experiences and degrees in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

51.06

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Colorado State University's Fish, Conservation, and Wildlife Biology degree expands the frontiers of knowledge through their broad-based expertise in applied ecology, quantitative methods, and human dimensions in the conservation and management of fish and wildlife. They are dedicated to teaching their students to think critically about environmental issues. Training them to become ecologically literate citizens with the training to be successful in graduate school and careers with natural resources agencies. The program contributes significantly to life-long learning by assisting individuals and agencies to solve complex environmental problems.

Acceptance Rate

81.35

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

The University of North Dakota (UND) Fisheries and Wildlife Biology degree pathway helps students transform their passion for the outdoors into a rewarding career with wildlife biology. Providing wide prairies of animal migration patterns as part of an integrated approach to fisheries and wildlife biology. Students have the opportunity to gain extensive fieldwork and vertebrate and invertebrate museums on campus. With a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife, students will be able to pursue a wide range of rewarding careers including conservationist, environmental scientist or consultant, extension agent, just to name a few.

Acceptance Rate

81.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The Lees-McRae College online degree in Wildlife Biology program is designed for individuals who are passionate about wildlife and a curiosity about the natural environment. The course involves extensive field research and is based on the belief that field experience is important for the students' education. Allowing them to gain hands-on experience working with injured, sick, and orphaned animals under the guidance of trained specialists in the field. After finishing the program, students are prepared to pursue graduate school or a career in wildlife biology.

Acceptance Rate

54.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Ohio University's Biological Sciences Wildlife and Conservation Major prepares students for a career such as an ecologist, wildlife biologist, wildlife refuge manager, zoologist, and general biologist. Preparing them for graduate school in wildlife biology, mammalogy, just to name a few. Through their quality training, students are highly prepared to go on to graduate school in wildlife biology or an allied discipline. Graduates from the program meet the course qualifications for state and federal civil services.

Acceptance Rate

82.07

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Charleston Southern University offers students a degree in Biology with a Wildlife Emphasis consists of 74-76 hours; 60 semester hours of Biology courses. The institution is committed to providing excellent training to students passionate about the field. Through their extensive instruction, students are prepared to navigate their way in the industry. Upon completing the course, graduates are equipped with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in the area.

Acceptance Rate

49.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

The degree in Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at Kansas State University provide students opportunities to learn about careers in conservation and management of natural resources. Students can choose from three options like Fisheries, Conservation, and Wildlife Biology based on their passion. Their unique instruction exposes their students to fundamental concepts and modern approaches necessary to pursue a career in the profession. They also offer a number of extracurricular activities that will aid students to develop their skills and provide valuable research experience.

Acceptance Rate

95.37

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of Michigan-Flint's degree in Wildlife Biology program provides students with a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for a career in the area of biology. Students will be exposed to wildlife management methods. The course is intended to equip students for entry-level positions with state and federal agencies and private companies and for the pursuit of higher academic degrees. They require their students to enroll in disciplines such as mathematics and statistics, chemistry, physics, communication, social sciences, and humanities.

Acceptance Rate

65.96

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Frostburg State University's Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Biology and Fisheries provides a unique approach to the sustainable management of game and conservation of non-game species. Students have the opportunity to choose a major in wildlife, fisheries, or both. The course focuses on ecology, conservation, and management of natural resources. Preparing students to hold scientific research positions working for federal or state agencies or private companies.

Acceptance Rate

80.14

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Texas State University has an engaging Wildlife Biology degree that adheres to the Northern American model of wildlife management. The institution's goal for the program is to prepare students to enter the wildlife profession as biologists, managers, and research scientists.  Students are taught to maintain abundant and healthy wildlife populations and habitats. The department has a Students Chapter of the Wildlife Society that is very active and the undergraduate students are highly encouraged to participate in it.

Acceptance Rate

81.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

West Texas A&M University's Wildlife Biology degree is dedicated to providing students a solid understanding of how to utilize management techniques to achieve desired management goals. Their classes focus on biology, ecology, and the natural history of vertebrates. Students are further exposed to professional wildlife biologists through their Students Chapter of the Wildlife Society. Internships provide students with valuable on-the-job experience while simultaneously allowing them to earn both a salary and college credit.

Acceptance Rate

68.95

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The University of Wyoming offers students a Wildlife and Fisheries Biology and Management Degree offers students a chance to explore the area that they are passionate about. Providing a solid background of knowledge in the basic sciences, zoology, conservation biology, and ecology. Students also have the opportunity to choose a concentration by specializing in the study of terrestrial or aquatic organisms. The program will prepare graduates for wildlife and fish management careers.

Acceptance Rate

95.96

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

The wildlife biology degree at Keystone College is a multidisciplinary approach to the study of wild animals and their habitats. The program is enhanced by field biology courses in fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, plant identification, and stream ecology. They provide a wonderful learning atmosphere using their unique location in northeast Pennsylvania. It is an environmentally focused course structured to meet the educational needs of students interested in zoology, botany, ecology, geology, and chemistry.

Acceptance Rate

78.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

The University of Maine's Wildlife Biology degree offers a diverse array of ecosystems and wildlife. Providing an outstanding setting for their wildlife ecology program and the many other programs in ecology, biology, and natural resources in the College of Natural Sciences, Forestry, and Agriculture. Through their extensive training and instruction, students are prepared to excel in the field. Graduates are equipped to gain employment in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

90.24

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Utah State University is the only institution in the state with a college devoted to the study of natural resources, and a degree in Wildlife Biology. The faculty is composed of professors with a wide array of interest areas in wildlife biology that students can study and are renowned for securing research grants and publishing their research. Promoting a particular focus on current issues and concerns in natural resources. Students are supported in their research and encouraged to participate in conferences.

Acceptance Rate

90.95

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Unity College's Wildlife and Fisheries Biology program immerses students into the depths of wildlife biology. Students can choose where and how to learn according to individual preferences and ultimate career goals. Offering hybrid learning providing them with new ways to earn a degree from America's Environmental College. The program is taught by nationally recognized professors, the program prepares students to solve the world's most pressing environmental problems.

Acceptance Rate

98.27

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Ohio University's Eastern Campus offers students a degree in wildlife and conservation.  The degree program can often be a viable pathway to a career as a biologist, ecologist, wildlife refuge manager, wildlife biologist, or zoologist. The curriculum helps to prepare eager learners for a career in the field or a path to post-graduate studies.  Graduate school can include advanced degrees in mammalogy, ecology, and wildlife biology as a baseline.  OU’s Eastern Campus is known for quality training and hands-on learning which produces exceptional talent in the field of wildlife biology.  Learn more about this exciting, ever-evolving degree program today via the school’s primary portal.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Eastern Arizona College (EAC) is a publicly owned and operated two year community college serving the residents of Greenlee, Graham and Thatcher counties. This college has a student population of over 6,000 and provides a degree program to suit all their students’ educational needs.

EAC offers over five different degree and certificate programs. These programs include their Associate of Arts (AA) program that is formulated for students who wish to transfer to a four year college upon completion of their program at EAC; the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program; the Associate of Business (ABus) and the Associate of Science (AS) programs that also provide students with transferable university credits.

EAC promotes a comfortable and well conducive learning environment by providing their students with all the necessary amenities and facilities to foster higher learning. Through their counseling center, EAC is able to guide their students along the way. They help to make their students adjust to college life in the beginning and further expand this service by providing academic advising and other counseling sessions to help with student development.

EAC provide their students with high quality education at a very affordable rate as can be seen with their 2012-2013 tuition fee of $1760.

EAC seeks to serve you and as such, they make all their information accessible on their website at http://www.eac.edu.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Davidson County Community College has a top-tier Zoological Science Technology academic program that prepares students for employment in zoological parks, aquaria, or other settings requiring animal care, breeding, education, conservation, or the health of exotic animals. Students have practical experiences with basic husbandry skills and animal management techniques. Course work also includes technical skills to educate the public about animal well-being and conservation. Graduates of the program should qualify for entry-level employment opportunities in a variety of settings, including zoos, aquaria, nature science centers, and animal research facilities.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

What Do Wildlife Biologists Learn in College?

Wildlife biology majors will take a number of science-based classes along with general curriculum in college. General education courses such as history and creative writing are similar from school to school. Meanwhile the core classes you will find from one university to another will vary depending on resources and course design.

A sampling of the core curriculum you may find in a wildlife biology degree may include the following types of course:

  • Ecology
  • Ornithology
  • Wildlife Conservation History & Law
  • Principles of Biology
  • Avian Management
  • Wildlife Policy, Administration, and Law
  • Wildlife Habitat Assessment
  • Chemistry
  • Biodiversity
  • Adaptive Fish and Wildlife Management
  • Wildlife Ecology
  • Dendrology
  • Natural Resource Management
  • Organismal Biology
  • Behavioral Psychology
  • Mammalian Ecology
  • Wildlife Population Science
  • Renewable Natural Resources
  • Wildlife Management

The study of wildlife biology requires an understanding of a cross section of disciplines that include biology, ecology, law, and psychology. Degrees are available at the bachelor, master's, and doctoral level. Master degree holders will have more vocational options as a master's degree is typically necessary for high-level research positions. A doctoral degree will allow an individual to obtain supervisory positions as well as teaching opportunities. To learn more about degrees in wildlife biology, simply search for schools below.

How to Become a Wildlife Biologist

In order to become a wildlife biologist you will need to earn a college degree from an accredited university. Many entry-level positions in wildlife require at least a bachelors degree in wildlife biology or related degree program such as zoology, biology, ecology, forestry, wildlands science, fishery science, or wildlife management. Wildlife biologists are required to intimately understand the ecology, environmental systems, wildlife anatomy, and biological processes.

Earning a masters degree or PhD in wildlife biology will help individuals land a job beyond an entry-level position in the field. An online masters degree in wildlife biology will generally take students one to two years beyond a qualifying undergraduate degree. Meanwhile, a PhD in wildlife biology will take an additional 2-4 years of study depending course load and the area of concentration selected.

Earning a master's degree or doctorate degree in wildlife biology can lead graduates to a wide variety of exciting career pathways. Examples of jobs graduate students can earn include the following: college professor, research analyst for government agencies, specialists for non-government agencies, extension specialist, environmental consultants, research biologist, conservationist, wildlife manager, and wildlife services administrator.

Wildlife Biologist Career Paths

There are multiple careers available to wildlife biology majors. These careers typically involve the care and maintenance of animals and their natural environment, typically through conservation programs. Local, state and federal governments are the primary employers, utilizing wildlife biologists to ensure the safety and cleanliness of parks and wildlife reserves.

Private firms, typically involved in land development may also hire wildlife biologists to reduce the impact of such development on the environment. Research programs, both publically and privately funded, may also employ wildlife biologists to conduct analyses and observation on various animals and their behaviors. Conservationist groups through non-governmental organizations may also provide employment opportunities internationally.

Individuals entering the field of wildlife biology should expect to work through various internships in order to garner practical experience prior to finding permanent work. Job opportunities are expected to grow over the next decade as the interest to preserve and maintain wildlife and ecosystems increases. Job availability on the government level is subject to change yearly based on available budgets.

Wildlife Biologist Jobs

When looking for jobs within the wildlife biology sector, you will need to get familiar with common titles used to describe similar jobs. Below we have detailed a cross-section of the most common job titles of a wildlife biologist to help you with your quest towards a gratifying career in wildlife biology.

  • Aquatic Biologist
  • Zoologist
  • Wolf Biologist
  • Wildlife Manager
  • Assistant Research Scientist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Fishery Biologist
  • Conservationist
  • Research Biologist
  • Fish and Wildlife Biologist
  • Conservation Resources Management Biologist
  • Environmental Specialist
  • Wildlife Biologist
  • Fisheries Biologist

Wildlife Biologist Job Description

A recent survey performed by the U.S. Department of Labor yielded key insights into what wildlife biologists do on a daily basis. Looking at what wildlife biologists do from industry to industry will help prospective students visualize the job in acute terms and determine if it is a good fit. Below you will find a summary of the most popular job duties of a wildlife biologist.

  1. Studying a variety of animals to determine environmental impact on wildlife and humans while working with constituents to remediate issues
  2. Collecting data on animal inventories and wildlife populations
  3. Organizing studies with animals in controlled environment or in their natural habitat
  4. Consulting organizational stakeholders and making policy suggestions on key wildlife management systems, wildlife habitat, and wildlife populations
  5. Publishing topically relevant wildlife articles, grant writing, reports, funding requests, and white papers
  6. Presenting information and research to schools, interest groups, clubs, trade organizations, and park programs
  7. Utilization of computer software such as statistical software, cartography, and geographic information systems (GIS).

Wildlife Biologists Salary

Students curious about how much a wildlife biologist makes will find a summary below. It is important to remember that the average salary of a wildlife biologist will vary based on degree, employer, and field. Data gathered from the BLS reveals wildlife biologists salary by employer. The state and federal agencies lead the way by salary and number of wildlife biologists employed across the country. Below is a quick summary of the average salary for a wildlife biologist:

  • Federal Employee - $71,000 per year
  • Researcher - $64,000 per year
  • State Employee - $52,000 per year
  • Management and Consulting - $50,000 per year

Top Employers of Wildlife Biologists

  1. State Government Agencies
  2. Federal Government Entities
  3. Technical and Scientific Consultants
  4. Research and Development Firms
  5. Local Government Agencies

States Employing the Most Wildlife Biologists

  • California 2,200
  • Washington 1,990
  • Florida 1,750
  • Oregon 920
  • Alaska 730

Top Paying States for Wildlife Biologists

  1. District of Columbia $106,820
  2. Maryland $94,270
  3. Rhode Island $86,590
  4. Connecticut $85,410
  5. Massachusetts $83,340

Additional Resources for Wildlife Biologists

Individuals interested in wildlife biology colleges can quickly sort a full list of accredited colleges offering wildlife biology degrees below. Interested students may also be interested in similar degree tracks such as zoology, animal physiology, or entomology.

For further information on a career path in biology, visit our Definitive Career Guide in Biology on our blog. As an additional resource, you can also read our blog post titledTop College Degrees for Animal Lovers for more information.

Featured Rankings

Find Your College Match

Sort By
PHP Code Snippets Powered By : XYZScripts.com