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? Embrace a new era of biology education with innovative technology tools and an adaptive curriculum that puts learning in your hands. Arizona State University’s 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.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 05/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 40

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered.

Have questions about the Biological Sciences – Conservation Biology and Ecology (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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What is 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.

What will I learn in this conservation biology degree concentration?

 

In this conservation biology degree concentration, 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.

At ASU Online, we’re constantly evolving the way we present subject matter. In addition to using lectures and textbooks as learning aids, we also provide students with the opportunity to use at-home lab kits and simulation tools. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on a virtual reality experience through our new initiative, Dreamscape Learn.

Does this program prepare me for roles in wildlife conservation and wildlife biology?

 

Yes, the conservation biology degree concentration can support a variety of career opportunities in the field, such as park ranger, fish and wildlife biologist, soil conservationist and more. Some conservation and wildlife biology roles, such as those in academia and research, require additional study and training.

This bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master's degrees include:

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.

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Conservation biology and ecology courses

In the program, you’ll take a wide 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. Courses may include:


BIO 181: General Biology I (SCIT OR SQ)


BIO 182: General Biology II (SCIT OR SG)


BIO 340: General Genetics


BIO 345: Evolution


BIO 320: Fundamentals of Ecology


BIO 322: Conservation of Biodiversity


What can I do with a conservation biology degree concentration?

Upon graduation, 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


Growth: 8.6 %
Salary: $81,650

Climate Change Analyst


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $76,480

Environmental Analyst


Growth: 4.1 %
Salary: $64,460

Environmental Protection Specialist


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $76,480

Fish and Game Warden


Growth: -6.3 %
Salary: $59,500

Fish and Wildlife Biologist


Growth: 3.0 %
Salary: $67,430

Geographic Information Systems Technician (GIS Technician)


Growth: 9.7 %
Salary: $98,740

High School Teacher


Growth: 1.0 %
Salary: $62,360

Hydrogeologist


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $144,440

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.

  • 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.

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

How to apply

I am a future

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Competency requirements

Additional admission requirements

High school equivalency

Homeschool

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 be socially aware, critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$140


million in research expenditures in 2018.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

95+


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.

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