Bachelor Degree in Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology North Carolina State University

Interested in working with wildlife? Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology prepares students to manage and protect populations of fish and wildlife in their natural habitats. This STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) major gives students the skills they need to observe, research, monitor and assess the impact of environmental change, human behavior and public policy on animal populations.

Using a combination of lab work, technology and field study, students develop conservation strategies that ensure the long-term health of fish and wildlife populations.

This program is a great fit for students with a passion for wildlife and the outdoors looking for research, conservation or environmental careers.

Students will have many opportunities to get outside while studying Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology. After sophomore year, students spend six weeks in the field at “Summer Camp,” an experience unique to the College of Natural Resources at NC State. During this unforgettable summer, students learn hands-on fish and wildlife management techniques in locations across the state. From plant and animal identification and bird mist netting to camera-trapping and radio telemetry, students gain experiences that prepare them for careers after graduation. Throughout the year, class field trips include behind-the-scenes exploration of the Smithsonian, animal autopsies at the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine and overnight trips to the Smoky Mountains.

The student-run Leopold Wildlife Club and Student Fisheries Society provide opportunities for professional development, networking and social events. With a number of natural resources agencies located within 20 minutes of NC State’s campus, students have access to a variety of valuable internship opportunities. Students also gain hands-on work experience and internships at the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh, the largest natural science museum in the Southeast, and the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, headquartered on NC State’s campus. Students in the wildlife concentration graduate with the coursework necessary for the Associate Wildlife Biologist Certification from The Wildlife Society.