B.S. Degree

The Wildlife Biology and Conservation B.S. program prepares students for a career focused on the study and management of wild animal populations and their habitats. Career paths include wildlife agency administration, development and implementation of management plans, and communication about wildlife to the public. The wildlife program also provides a solid foundation for further study at the graduate level. The curriculum meets requirements for certification as a Wildlife Biologist by The Wildlife Society. 

The geographic location of the university is particularly advantageous for the study of wildlife biology. Alaska contains vast areas of wilderness with intact ecosystems housing large populations of vertebrate herbivores and predators. Spruce forest, aspen-birch forest, alpine tundra, bogs, and several types of aquatic habitats are within easy reach of UAF. Farther afield, studies can be conducted in other habitats, from the dense forests of southeastern Alaska to Arctic tundra.

Wildlife biology students at UAF may interact with the personnel of the Alaska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the Institute of Arctic Biology, and several local offices of the federal and state conservation agencies. Opportunities for summer fieldwork assisting government agencies and university researchers arise frequently, providing a valuable opportunity to gain experience and to make job connections.

Minimum Requirements for Wildlife Biology and Conservation Degree: 120 credits

Learn more about the bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology and conservation, including an overview of the program, career opportunities and more.

College of Natural Science and Mathematics
Department of Biology and Wildlife

Students must earn a C- grade or better in each course.

Minimum Requirements for Wildlife Biology and Conservation B.S.: 120 credits

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Fulfills the baccalaureate capstone requirement (junior or senior standing required)

Note: B.S. degree candidates are strongly urged to obtain work experience in wildlife-related positions with public resource agencies or private firms. Faculty members can help students contact potential employers.

Requirements for biology teachers (grades 7-12)

Note: We strongly recommend that prospective secondary science teachers seek advising from the Alaska College of Education early in their undergraduate degree program so they can be appropriately advised of the State of Alaska requirements for teacher licensure. Students will apply for admission to the Alaska College of Education's postbaccalaureate teacher preparation program, a one-year intensive program, during their senior year. The above requirements apply to all candidates who apply to the Alaska College of Education for licensure in biology.