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Wildlife Biology, B.S.

With increasing threats to wildlife, and society's disconnect from nature, it's more critical than ever to train wildlife biologists and conservationists in organismal biology, collaboration, and communication skills. Conservation of our wildlife is a moral imperative, since modern threats all stem from human causation and human health is linked to the health of animals and the environment.

Visit the program website for more information.

Students are admitted directly into this program.

Program Overview

The wildlife biology major prepares you to attain and succeed in positions focused on maintaining sustainable populations of wildlife species at the local, regional, state, federal, and international level. The program requires you gain an understanding of both wildlife and of ecosystems.

Why Study Wildlife Biology at Grand Valley?

  • Engage in field and laboratory learning environments that allow you to study wildlife and their management from a variety of perspectives.
  • Experience a focused curriculum that instills practical skills within a liberal arts context, leading to a well-rounded professional that can address conservation concerns on local and international levels.
  • Qualify for sought-after positions with state and federal wildlife agencies.
  • Have opportunities for internships, study abroad, field study, and mentor-guided student research to complement coursework.
  • Engage in extracurricular activities to practice the skills needed in the wildlife professions.

Career Insights

This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.

Location & Format

Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.

Format:
  • Face To Face

Coursework

A degree in wildlife biology includes coursework in:

  • Wildlife ecology
  • Life history and systematics of animals
  • Mathematics and statistics
  • Other physical sciences
  • Wildlife management
  • Plant identification and ecology
  • Genetics

Combined Degree Programs

Many GVSU undergraduate programs can be combined with an existing master’s degree program to save on tuition and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, you can save $8,500 by pursuing a combined degree and take up to four fewer courses than if earning the degrees separately.

Talk with an advisor about how you can build your combined degree from existing programs to further personalize your education and create your own niche area of expertise.

Admission Requirements

Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.

For More Information

Biology Department

gvsu.edu/biology
3300a Kindschi Hall of Science
(616) 331-2470

Admissions and Recruitment Office

gvsu.edu/admissions