Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources: Conservation Biology Emphasis

University of Arizona

Develop critical solutions from those based in scientific disciplines to law and education - to help manage and protect our natural resources. The Conservation Biology emphasis in the Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources encourages students to study conservation across taxa (invertebrates, vertebrates, plants, fungi, microbes) and across scientific disciplines such as ecology, genetics and evolution. The program of study also includes coursework in policy, planning and economics. Students acquire highly desirable science and social-science skills and real-world experiences to pursue careers as conservation biologists, conservation planners, environmental educators, researchers, natural resource managers and ecologists. This B.S. degree program also prepares students for graduate degrees in law and policy or work in government agencies and non-profits, such as The Nature Conservancy.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Demonstrate basic knowledge ecological principles; Acquire basic knowledge of ecological principles (e.g., energy flow, material cycling, competition, predation, mutualism), identify current ecological challenges facing natural resource managers, and use ecological principles to develop potential integrated solutions to problems in natural resource management. (RNR 316/202)

Natural resource management; Describe how social, political, and economic forces affect management of natural resources; and explain why there generally are trade-offs between various objectives in natural resources management.

Land management agency roles; Identify the major land management agencies responsible for stewardship of natural resources, the key historical conditions that lead to the creation of these agencies, and the primary mandates of each of these agencies.

Master basic statistical analyses; Conduct, interpret, and present basic statistical analyses of field and laboratory data, develop a research sampling design, and demonstrate the ability to design and conduct monitoring projects in the field.

Effectively communicate; Write professional reports in the style appropriate for the field of specialization, and demonstrate clear communication of scientific concepts and analytical arguments based on synthesis of published information and use of critical thinking.

Demonstrate ethical behavior; Identify behaviors of ethical professionals, and describe links between these behaviors and professional accomplishments.

Taxonomic identification; Demonstrate the ability to use taxonomic keys to identify a variety of plant and animal taxa.

Career development; Identify career paths and responsibilities within professions related to natural resources, and demonstrate awareness and appreciation for the importance of collaboration for stewardship of natural resources, including among agencies and between scientists and managers.

CAREER FIELDS

Conservation biology

Environmental education

Non-profit

Public policy

State and national parks