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Begin your next phase of lifelong learning
Discover opportunities for continuous education and online training. Begin your next phase of lifelong learning in the evolving field of wildlife! Whether you're a seasoned professional looking to expand your knowledge with certifications or a newcomer eager to delve into an environmental science degree, the following resources will help you along your journey.
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University Programs
Undergraduate Majors and Specializations
Explore degree programs offered by the University of Illinois in fields related to wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science, and conservation. The university offers majors such as Wildlife Ecology, Environmental Studies, and Conservation Biology. These programs emphasize interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests like habitat conservation or wildlife management.
Graduate Studies
Graduate programs offer online and in-person Master's degree programs, Ph.D. programs and joint law degree programs, allowing students to specialize further and engage in research. Faculty research areas include population ecology, conservation genetics, and environmental policy, preparing students for careers in academia, research, and management. Explore graduate studies opportunities at the University of Illinois below.
Courses and Curriculum
Core courses in wildlife conservation programs include Conservation Biology, Ecology, Field Techniques, and Environmental Policy. Hands-on experiences and research opportunities are integrated into the curriculum to develop practical skills and real-world understanding. Many U.S federal positions in the realm of environmental science require certain courses and experience. Explore the Department of the Interior’s Wildlife Biology Series requirements below.
Research Opportunities
Students engage in faculty-led projects, contribute to ongoing research, and pursue independent studies, gaining valuable experience in wildlife monitoring, habitat assessment, and conservation strategies.
Internship Programs
Universities partner with agencies, organizations, and industry for internship and volunteer opportunities in wildlife conservation and environmental sectors. These internships provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities in areas like wildlife monitoring and habitat restoration. Explore internship examples.
Professional Training
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Explore USDA's online resources, which may include courses on topics such as sustainable agriculture, land management, and environmental conservation.
Center for Wildlife Studies
The Center for Wildlife Studies offers expansive resources that can further your environmental education. With course offerings of environmental policy, field techniques and methods, plant and animal identification, writing science, and research design, all are valuable assets to add to your resume.
NOLS Wilderness Medicine Certification
If you plan on working outside, knowing proper first aid is essential, and getting hands-on experience is the best way to do it! NOLS Wilderness Medicine offers courses in wilderness first aid, first responder, emergency medical technician, and entire wilderness medicine semesters.
Eagle Hill Institute
In addition to nature retreats and in-person seminars, Eagle Hill Institute offers online seminar series on a variety of topics such as geological history, field identification, and deep dives into the life history of a variety of species. Check out the calendar to find a seminar that interests you.
Home Range
Home Range offers valuable practical field training through in-depth course offerings such as wildlife field techniques, and ethical live trapping. If you plan to have a career in field biology, some of these courses might interest you.
