Conservation Degrees: Course Curriculum for a Conservation Degree

Natural Resource Conservation Associate's Degree Course Curriculum

An associate's degree program in natural resource conservation combines field work with classroom study to give students a broad appreciation of the natural world and deeper understanding of sustainability issues and resource management. Some graduates continue on to a 4-year baccalaureate degree program, while others find employment as fish and wildlife technicians, conservation officers, land managers and educators at state or national parks. The curriculum may include such courses as introductory environmental conservation, soils, waters, forests and environmental science.

Natural Resources Conservation Bachelor's Degree Course Curriculum

Natural resources conservation is a broad field, and many schools offer specific concentrations within the conservation major, such as building and construction, fisheries and wildlife conservation, forest conservation, recreation and tourism, and environmental science. A bachelor's degree program prepares students for entry-level conservation jobs at government agencies, environmental groups and private organizations, as well as graduate study in the field. Classroom study is often combined with extensive field work, including internships and study abroad opportunities. Course subjects may include natural resource sampling, range and forest administration, environmental economics and international water development.

Conservation Biology Master's Degree Course Curriculum

A master's degree program in conservation biology provides students with advanced training in the biological sciences relevant to fish, wildlife and ecosystem conservation. At the same time it introduces candidates to the economic, social and political dimensions of recognizing and solving problems of conservation and sustainability. In addition to relevant electives in the biological sciences, the course curriculum may include subjects such as conservation biology economics, contemporary issues in conservation biology and resource management research.

Conservation Biology Doctoral Degree Course Curriculum

A Ph.D. program in conservation biology prepares students to become educators, independent researchers and leaders in industry, nongovernmental organizations and government agencies. In addition to conducting research for their original dissertations, students take courses in the relevant biological sciences, as well as social science and policy areas such as economics, law, public planning, politics, sociology and environmental engineering.