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Ecology is the study of the distribution and abundance of organisms, the interactions among organisms, and the interactions between organisms and the physical environment. Conservation biology is an applied science based on ecological principles that focuses on conserving biological diversity and on restoring degraded ecosystems. Arizona State University has made a commitment toward a more sustainable world, and knowledge of conservation biology and ecology, gained through the BS program in biological sciences with a concentration in conservation biology and ecology, is one critical component to help meet this global challenge.
Conservation biologists at ASU investigate the impact of humans on Earth's biodiversity and develop practical approaches to prevent the extinction of species and promote the sustainable use of biological resources. Some investigate the causes of ecosystem degradation and use ecological principles to reestablish desired conditions within a range of ecosystems, including rivers, wetlands, grasslands, urban landscapes and forests.
This program is available as an accelerated degree program: https://sols.asu.edu/degree-programs/accelerated-bachelor-master-science.
Degree Offered
Biological Sciences (Conservation Biology and Ecology) (BS)
Liberal Arts & Sciences, College of
Location
Tempe
Major Map
A major map outlines the degree’s requirements for graduation.
Application Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.Freshman
Transfer
International
Readmission
Affording College
Scholarships
Find and apply for relevant scholarships.
Financial Aid
ASU has many financial aid options. Almost everyone, regardless
of income, can qualify for some form of financial aid. In fact,
more than 70 percent of all ASU students receive some form of
financial assistance every year.
Career Outlook
The curriculum prepares students for employment and provides a solid platform for students who wish to attend graduate school. The skills and concepts are preparation for careers with:
- governmental agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and state game and fish departments
- K-12 education, colleges and universities
- nongovernmental organizations such as The Nature Conservancy and Conservation International
- private companies focused on environmental resources, environmental law or environmental economics
The concentration can provide training in specific skills that might be needed in these areas:
- animal and plant physiology, identification and ecology
- behavioral ecology and population biology
- community, ecosystem and landscape ecology
- conservation of endangered species
- ecology of different habitats, including cities, lakes, rivers and grasslands
- restoration of degraded ecosystems
Example Careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
| Career | *growth | *median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Bioinformatics Scientists | 8% | $76,690 |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 15.2% | $78,240 |
| Clinical Research Coordinators | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health | 11.1% | $69,400 |
| Range Managers | 6.3% | $61,480 |
| Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists | 7.6% | $62,290 |
| Foresters | 5% | $60,120 |
| Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 7.8% | $87,420 |
| Natural Sciences Managers | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | 7.5% | $59,170 |
| Water Resource Specialists | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Life Scientists, All Other | 9.2% | $74,540 |
| Molecular and Cellular Biologists | 8% | $76,690 |
| Museum Technicians and Conservators | 12.4% | $40,670 |
| Park Naturalists | 6.3% | $61,480 |
| Soil and Water Conservationists | 6.3% | $61,480 |
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
- Bright Outlook
- Green Occupation