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Wildlife Biology

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Undergraduate Major

Allendale • Face to face (?) • 120 Credits

Wildlife biology is the scientific study of wild animals and their habitats, focusing on the conservation and management of biodiversity.

Overview

This program provides a solid foundation in biological sciences, focusing on the study of wildlife and their habitats. It covers essential topics and prepares students for various roles in wildlife management, research, and conservation. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address contemporary environmental challenges and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity.

You will immerse yourself in courses that merge classroom theory with practical fieldwork. Core courses include principles of ecology, genetics, conservation biology, wildlife management, and field techniques in wildlife biology. These courses ensure a well-rounded understanding of the field, combining scientific principles with hands-on work and research opportunities.

You will gain the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in wildlife biology and become part of a vibrant community dedicated to conservation and environmental stewardship. Through internship, study abroad, and fieldwork opportunities, you will be prepared for sought-after positions in state and federal wildlife agencies.

Biology Department

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

Admissions and Recruitment Office

gvsu.edu/admissions

Career Opportunities

Study the origins, behavior, diseases, genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential use of land and water habitats.

Top skills
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Listening
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 51,309.94 10%
$ 59,020.92 25%
$ 77,997.08 50%
$ 95,431.89 75%
$108,298.26 90%

Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Includes medical microbiologists who study the relationship between organisms and disease or the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.

Top skills
  • Science
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Writing
  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Learning
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 52,020.38 10%
$ 60,002.48 25%
$ 70,247.88 50%
$ 86,061.92 75%
$101,816.69 90%

Research or study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.

Top skills
  • Science
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Writing
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 48,037.57 10%
$ 63,155.33 25%
$ 80,378.85 50%
$111,834.86 75%
$134,401.88 90%

Study the origins, behavior, diseases, genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential use of land and water habitats.

Top skills
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Listening
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 47,365.17 10%
$ 57,522.94 25%
$ 72,221.13 50%
$ 90,784.28 75%
$115,528.87 90%

Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Includes medical microbiologists who study the relationship between organisms and disease or the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.

Top skills
  • Science
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Writing
  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Learning
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 50,878.62 10%
$ 63,578.57 25%
$ 87,029.58 50%
$120,765.49 75%
$151,611.39 90%

Research or study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.

Top skills
  • Science
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Writing
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 53,843.05 10%
$ 67,322.79 25%
$ 92,785.15 50%
$121,484.53 75%
$161,556.45 90%
"One of the Best Value Colleges in Michigan"
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4,963
Students Participated in Experiential Learning

Scholarships

Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU. There are several scholarships available for biology students.

Leare More About Biology Scholarships

Biology Student Organizations

Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. There are a wealth of student organizations available to biology students.

Learn More About Student Biology Organizations

Career Advising

Whether you are a first-year student, a transfer student, or a current student thinking about your career options, advising is an important part of your academic journey.

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Page last modified May 20, 2025