Bachelor of Science - Wildlife Ecology & Conservation

The Wildlife Ecology and Conservation major is offered through the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science (NRES). The curriculum provides a solid, multidisciplinary foundation for science-based decision making in wildlife ecology and conservation biology.  Students acquire a strong background in basic science (e.g., biology, chemistry, and mathematics) as well as courses addressing critical issues in management, restoration and conservation of wildlife and other biological resources. This major is designed for students interested in pursuing careers focused on the ecology and management of wildlife and other biota.  Course-work will develop skills needed to evaluate impacts of human activities on natural and managed biological systems.

• Extensive research opportunites
• State-of-the-art equipment and computers
• A dedicated teaching faculty
• Small class sizes
• Couse work that engages students in field work

Graduating seniors are prepared for graduate study or may enter the work force directly. Wildlife ecology and conservation biology are growing areas of state, regional and national priority.  Hence, the employment outlook is extremely promising for students interested in working for state and federal agencies, private consulting firms, and non-profit organizations.  The curriculum can be designed to assure qualification as a federal wildlife biologist and/or certification by The Wildlife Society.  Students interested in qualifying under the federal US Office of Personnel Management Standards should notify their advisor and consult the website at http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/sec-iii/a/0400-ndx.htm .

What kind of salary do wildlife ecology grads earn?
      In 2006, the median annual income nationwide for zoologists and wildlife biologist was $53,300 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). In the Federal Government in 2007, general biological scientists earned an average salary of $72,146; microbiologists, $87,206; ecologists, $76,511; zoologists, $110,456; and botanists, $67,218.

What kind of salary do conservation grads earn?
      In 2010, the median annual income nationwide for conservation scientists was $59,310. In 2010, the average Federal salary for foresters was $62,200; for soil and plant scientists, $77,510 and for wildlife biologists $77,030 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

What kind of classes should I be taking in high school?
     High School students interested in wildlife ecology and conservation biology should take at least three years of science including biology and chemistry, and four years of mathematics.  Students taking calculus in high school may receive credit for the university calculus requirement.  English courses that emphasize writing skills are strongly recommended. Any deficiencies in preparatory classes must be remedied during the first year at University of Nevada, Reno.

What kind of classes will I take?
      Students will emphasize the core University requirements during their first two years of study. These include English, Mathematics through Calculus I, General (Inorganic) Chemistry, the Social Sciences, Fine Arts, and Western Traditions. Also included will be a number of Major (NRES) requirements such as Biology, Statistics, and introductory courses addressing general issues in conservation and biodiversity, wildlife, and natural resource management, and environmental pollution. The third and fourth years of study will consist of classes especially relevant to wildlife ecology and conservation biology, e.g., Wildlife Ecology, Conservation Biology, Animal Behavior, Genetics, etc.).  Internships, fieldwork, laboratory activities, and capstone courses round out the curriculum.

Dr. Jim Sedinger, Professor, Faculty Advisor
Phone: (775) 784-6556
e-mail: jsedinger@cabnr.unr.edu
Office: 133 Knudsen Resouce Center, 1000 Valley Road, Reno