Online Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences – Conservation Biology and Ecology

Conservation biology and ecology are scientific fields focused on protecting biodiversity and restoring ecosystems. In this program, you'll study how organisms interact with one another and their physical environments, then apply that knowledge to reduce human impact on natural systems, manage wildlife and land resources, and support long-term ecosystem health.

Yes. ASU’s conservation biology and ecology degree is completed entirely online. You'll complete coursework, simulations and virtual labs remotely, with no required campus visits. The only in-person component is an optional lab tied to one elective, organic chemistry, which is not required to finish the degree.

However, organic chemistry is a standard prerequisite for many graduate programs in biology and environmental science, as well as for medical, dental and pharmacy school applications. The lab is offered over one week at ASU's Tempe campus during the summer, giving you direct access to faculty and the chance to connect with fellow online biology students in person.

You'll build hands-on skills that apply directly to conservation and wildlife careers. Core competencies include:

• Ecological analysis and applied conservation principles
• Data interpretation and population modeling
• GIS fundamentals and spatial analysis
• Ecosystem restoration planning across rivers, wetlands, grasslands and forests
• Scientific communication and research methods

These skills prepare you for roles in government agencies, conservation organizations and environmental science fields and for graduate study in ecology, environmental law or public policy.

A conservation biology degree provides opportunities for rewarding and in-demand jobs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, between 2024 and 2034 this field is projected to have steady growth, including roles, such as conservation scientist or forester ($69,060 median salary, 3% projected growth), environmental scientist and specialist ($80,060 median salary, 4% projected growth) and zoologist and wildlife biologist ($72,860 median salary, 2% projected growth).

Conservation biology focuses on protecting biodiversity and restoring degraded ecosystems — rivers, wetlands, grasslands and forests — with a strong emphasis on addressing human impact at the ecosystem level. Wildlife biology centers on studying animal species, their behavior and habitats, but with less focus on large-scale restoration or policy intervention.

In ASU's online wildlife biology degree, you'll study both areas. This program prepares you to work across species, ecosystems and policy contexts, which makes it a strong foundation for careers in wildlife conservation, environmental protection and natural resource management.

Yes. You'll engage with hands-on learning throughout the program through multiple formats:

• Virtual labs and simulations: Engage in immersive Dreamscape Learn experiences designed for online students. Explore interactive 2D worlds as a scientific investigator, and use storytelling and data to address real biological problems. 
• At-home lab kits: Hands-on lab materials and dissection kits shipped directly to you for select courses.
• Research and internship opportunities: Connect classroom learning to real conservation and wildlife work.

The program is completed entirely online with no required in-person components. If you want to go further, an organic chemistry elective is offered in an in-person lab session, but it’s not required to earn your degree.

Yes. The curriculum builds directly toward advanced study in environmental science, biology, public policy and law. Accepted students can also apply to ASU's Accelerated Master's program, earning a master's degree in as little as one year after completing this degree through shared coursework. Pathways include the Master of Science in biology and the Master of Science in computational life sciences.

No. This concentration focuses on terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, rivers and wetlands. If your interest is in marine systems, consider ASU's Bachelor of Science in ocean futures or Bachelor of Science in ocean futures – coastal and marine science.

ASU's online wildlife biology degree is built with the same faculty, curriculum and degree as the on-campus program. Your diploma will say Arizona State University, not "online."

What sets the learning experience apart:

• Same faculty: Courses are taught by the same wildlife biology and ecology experts who teach on campus at ASU.
• Immersive technology: Dreamscape Learn places you in story-driven scientific scenarios that mirror field and lab conditions
• Multiple lab formats: Virtual labs and at-home lab kits let you practice hands-on without campus visits.
• Applied learning pathways: Internship and research opportunities connect coursework to conservation and wildlife careers.

You’ll graduate prepared to address conservation challenges across government agencies, nonprofits and private environmental firms.