Do you dream of working with wildlife? Careers in this field are extensive, and this degree will equip you to land a rewarding and endlessly fascinating one. You’ll gain in-depth expertise in the ecology of wild animals, including their biology, relationships with each other and humans, and the environment that forms their habitat.
In our conservation and wildlife management program you will learn management of entire ecosystems. You will learn to apply biological principles to manage and conserve wildlife. Our graduates understand the factors that impact habitat and species conservation. Our curriculum covers principles of implementing safe, effective and appropriate procedures for sustainably managing wildlife populations. Students learn about wildlife anatomy, behavior, pathology and diseases, ecology, and the conservation challenges created by human actions.
As a wildlife management and conservation student, you will actively engage with the material. Our program will provide you with a strong foundation in science as well as hands-on experience working with animals.
- You will participate in laboratories that emphasize field techniques and a hands-on approach to wildlife management
- You will learn outside the classroom on our more than 1,000 acres of land to engage in hands-on learning in our living laboratory
- You will have opportunities to gain animal experience in our two animal care facilities through classes and student research
- You will have access to state and federal agencies that provide unique learning experiences, internships and networking opportunities for DelVal students
- With DelVal's strong reputation among conservation employers, you will have access to a robust network of alumni in conservation careers
- Our caring faculty provide one-on-one guidance and are invested in your success
Are you a transfer student? Learn about our National Science Foundation S-STEM Scholarship Program and Opportunities.
DelVal Influencers: Our Faculty
Not all influencers have thousands of media followers. But, some influencers work diligently every day to help young people pursue their passions and find their career path. At DelVal, they're our faculty!
Here are a few of our DelVal influencers who teach in the conservation and wildlife management program:
Dr. Melissa Langston, Professor of Chemistry
Dr. Jaclyn Fiola, Assistant Professor, Soil and Environmental Science
Dr. Joanne Powell, Instructor, Co-Chair of the Animal and Dairy Science Department
Dr. Kimberly Reichner, VMD, Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology and Conservation
I believe that many conservation issues stem not from a lack of caring but a lack of understanding. That is why it is my passion to spread conservation knowledge.
Our wide variety of course offerings prepare you for a variety of career opportunities in the field.
Sample Courses:
- Ecology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Statistics for Science
- Animal Behavior
- Genetics
- Wildlife Management
- Wildlife Health and Disease
- Wildlife Conservation
- Wildlife Law and Policy
- Mammalogy
- Ornithology
- Herpetology
Recommended Minors:
- Education
- Environmental Sciences
- Communication
- Criminal Justice
- One Health Communication
- Policy Studies
- Writing
The One Health Communication minor provides students with the opportunity to bridge the study of writing and rhetoric with the sciences. Students who complete this minor will enhance their analytical and communication skills related to sciences including the University’s pre-veterinary, pre-health, STEM and science programs. They will gain skills for effectively communicating science topics to non-scientists and the general public.
The Experience360 Program in conservation and wildlife management gives you the opportunity to apply classroom lessons to real-world activities like internships, career exploration experiences, student research, study abroad, leadership development and more.
Career Paths
The knowledge and hands-on experience you will gain in our conservation and wildlife management program prepare you to:
- Apply to graduate school or veterinary school
- Pursue a career within wildlife research
- Pursue a career in wildlife biology, conservation or game management
- Pursue a career in state and national parks, game preserves, or wildlife rehabilitation
- Pursue a career in environmental education
- Pursue a career as a zoo or aquarium professional
- Wildlife Society - Explore wildlife conservation issues and careers through our student chapter of this national professional organization!
- American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK) - Learn about animal care through different means such as zoos, aquariums, conservation, and research!
- Pre-Vet Club - Learn about veterinary medicine careers with your peers!
Office Location: Mandel 123A
Office Location: Feldman Hall
