Online Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences – Conservation Biology and Ecology
Are you passionate about solving environmental and ecological challenges, such as climate change and habitat destruction? Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in biological sciences with a concentration in conservation biology and ecology prepares you to find solutions to complex threats to Earth’s living organisms and ecosystems. Embrace a new era of biology education with innovative technology tools and an adaptive curriculum that puts learning in your hands.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
A biology degree for those wanting to solve the complex problems threatening our world
In this program, you’ll learn through a combination of courses and hands-on learning experiences. You’ll also gain an understanding of how living organisms interact with the natural world, as well as how to reduce human interference with these natural processes. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with a wide skill set applicable to a variety of areas of conservation biology and ecology, such as:
- Animal and plant physiology
- Behavioral ecology
- Community and landscape ecology
- Population biology
- Restoring degraded ecosystems
This program’s innovative courses enable new ways of learning and applying skills. Narrative storytelling tools such as Dreamscape Learn allow you to explore virtual worlds as a scientific investigator. In this interactive 2D environment, you’ll gather and analyze data to solve realistic problems in biology. Actively participating in the story will deepen your understanding and strengthen your problem-solving skills. Additional practical learning opportunities may include at-home lab kits, in-person lab sessions, internships and research.
Understanding conservation ecology
Conservation ecology is an applied science that focuses on preserving biological diversity and maintaining healthy ecosystems. Conservation ecologists are concerned with evaluating and reducing the human impact on Earth’s biodiversity. In the field and at the policy level, ecologists use practical strategies to mitigate risks of species extinction and promote the sustainable use of biological resources.
Conservation ecology involves a multipronged approach: Protecting the integrity of existing ecosystems, investigating causes for degradation and reestablishing optimal conditions. The work of conservation ecologists reaches a wide array of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, rivers, urban landscapes, wetlands and more.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Develop the skills you need for your biology career with innovative tools and technologies.
Conservation biology and ecology courses
You’ll take a range of biology, ecology and conservation courses, as well as core calculus and statistics courses. In addition to your four major core and two concentration core courses, there are a variety of electives to choose from, ranging from population and community ecology to oceanography. Online labs are offered to fulfill all requirements of the program, but there will be an in-person lab component at ASU’s Tempe campus if you choose to take organic chemistry as an optional elective.
Start your path to careers in conservation, wildlife management and more
Upon graduating, you’ll have the conservation biology expertise necessary to pursue roles in government agencies, K-12 and higher education, nongovernmental agencies and private companies focused on environmental resources. You’ll also be a competitive applicant for graduate programs in environmental science, marine biology, public policy, law and more. Career examples include, but aren’t limited to:
Biological Sciences Professor
Climate Change Analyst
Environmental Analyst
Environmental Protection Specialist
Fish and Game Warden
Fish and Wildlife Biologist
Geographic Information Systems Technician (GIS Technician)
High School Teacher
Hydrogeologist
Learn from conservation ecology leaders
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars
- Guggenheim Fellows
- MacArthur Fellows
- Nobel laureates
Learn from conservation ecology leaders
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars
- Guggenheim Fellows
- MacArthur Fellows
- Nobel laureates
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Study conservation with the School of Life Sciences
As a part of The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Life Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
31,572
students enrolled as of fall 2024
$161 million
in research expenditures in FY23
21
interdisciplinary schools and departments
100+
undergraduate degrees
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
