Georgia is a state with a rich biodiversity, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic coast. As such, it’s no surprise that the state is home to several excellent schools that offer programs in wildlife conservation biology.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in wildlife conservation, here are some of the best schools in Georgia to consider:
- University of Georgia: The University of Georgia is a public research university in Athens, Georgia. It is one of the leading research universities in the country, and its Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources offers a highly regarded program in wildlife conservation biology.
- Georgia Southern University: Georgia Southern University is a public research university in Statesboro, Georgia. Its College of Science and Mathematics offers a program in wildlife conservation biology that emphasizes hands-on experience and field research.
- Valdosta State University: Valdosta State University is a public university in Valdosta, Georgia. Its College of Science and Agriculture offers a program in wildlife conservation biology that focuses on the conservation of threatened and endangered species.
- Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College: Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College is a public college in Tifton, Georgia. Its School of Agricultural and Natural Resources offers a program in wildlife conservation biology that prepares students for careers in wildlife management and conservation.
When choosing a wildlife conservation biology program, there are several factors to consider:
- Curriculum: The curriculum should cover a broad range of topics in wildlife conservation biology, including ecology, wildlife management, conservation genetics, and wildlife law.
- Faculty: The faculty should be experienced researchers and educators who are passionate about wildlife conservation.
- Facilities: The school should have access to adequate facilities for teaching and research, such as laboratories, field stations, and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Location: The location of the school can be a factor to consider, especially if you’re interested in studying a particular type of wildlife or ecosystem.
With a degree in wildlife conservation biology, you can pursue a variety of careers, including:
- Wildlife biologist: Wildlife biologists study the ecology and behavior of wildlife, and develop management plans to conserve wildlife populations.
- Conservation officer: Conservation officers enforce wildlife laws and regulations, and educate the public about wildlife conservation.
- Wildlife manager: Wildlife managers oversee the management of wildlife populations on public and private lands.
- Wildlife researcher: Wildlife researchers study the ecology and behavior of wildlife, and develop new methods for conserving wildlife populations.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for wildlife biologists was $63,360 in May 2021. The job outlook for wildlife biologists is expected to grow by 5% from 2021 to 2031.
If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, then a degree in wildlife conservation biology can help you prepare for a fulfilling career in this field. Georgia is home to several excellent schools that offer programs in wildlife conservation biology, so you can find the right school to fit your needs.
| School | Location | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Georgia | Athens, GA | $27,000 |
| Georgia Southern University | Statesboro, GA | $21,000 |
| Valdosta State University | Valdosta, GA | $18,000 |
| Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College | Tifton, GA | $15,000 |
| Program | Curriculum | Faculty |
|---|---|---|
| University of Georgia | Ecology, wildlife management, conservation genetics, wildlife law | Experienced researchers and educators with a passion for wildlife conservation |
| Georgia Southern University | Ecology, wildlife management, conservation genetics, wildlife law, field research | Experienced researchers and educators who emphasize hands-on experience |
| Valdosta State University | Ecology, wildlife management, conservation genetics, wildlife law, focus on threatened and endangered species | Experienced researchers and educators with expertise in conservation of threatened and endangered species |
| Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College | Ecology, wildlife management, conservation genetics, wildlife law, focus on wildlife management and conservation | Experienced researchers and educators with expertise in wildlife management and conservation |
| Career | Salary | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife biologist | $63,360 | 5% growth from 2021 to 2031 |
| Conservation officer | $59,500 | 7% growth from 2021 to 2031 |
| Wildlife manager | $67,590 | 4% growth from 2021 to 2031 |
| Wildlife researcher | $73,210 | 3% growth from 2021 to 2031 |