Tennessee Technological University

What you'll study

This degree blends classroom learning, laboratory work and extensive field-based training to build competence in wildlife ecology, habitat management and land stewardship. Core topics include wildlife biology, population dynamics, wildlife management techniques, conservation biology, habitat assessment and restoration, and principles of ecology.

• Foundations: introductory and intermediate courses in ecology, animal behaviour, and conservation principles.
• Quantitative skills: statistics for ecology, population modelling, experimental design, and applied data analysis.
• Techniques and tools: wildlife sampling methods, telemetry, remote sensing and GIS for natural resources, and laboratory skills in wildlife health and genetics.
• Management and policy: natural resource management, land-use planning, wildlife policy and law, ethics, and human–wildlife interactions.
• Applied learning: semester-long field courses, practicum or internship placements with natural resource agencies or NGOs, and a capstone or research project that integrates field data collection and management recommendations.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: forest ecology, range management, aquatic ecology, environmental education, and courses in business or communication relevant to conservation practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent. Admission typically considers a college-preparatory academic record with coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics and English. Practical experience such as volunteering, internships or work with conservation organisations strengthens an application.

• Successful completion of secondary-school science and mathematics is recommended.
• Many applicants present standardised-test scores where required; prospective students should consult the university admissions guidance on test-optional policies.
• Transfer applicants are evaluated on previous collegiate work; relevant community-college credits, technical training, or military service can apply to degree requirements.
• International applicants must satisfy English-language proficiency requirements and provide equivalent academic documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles in conservation, natural resource management and environmental science. The programme emphasises applied skills that are directly transferable to the workplace.

• Wildlife biologist or technician, conducting surveys, population assessments and monitoring programmes.
• Park or protected-area manager and park ranger roles focused on visitor services, law enforcement and habitat protection.
• Habitat restoration specialist and land manager working for government agencies, non-profit conservation organisations or private landowners.
• Environmental consultant providing ecological assessments, permitting support and mitigation planning for development projects.
• GIS technician or data analyst specialising in conservation mapping, spatial analysis and remote-sensing applications.
• Pathway to graduate study in wildlife biology, ecology, conservation science, forestry or environmental policy for students aiming at research or higher-level management careers.

Why study at Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Tech offers a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and applied research, with access to regional field sites across the Cumberland Plateau and nearby Appalachian foothills that provide diverse habitats for study. The programme is delivered by faculty active in wildlife and natural resource research and connects students with experiential learning through internships, practicum placements and collaborative projects.

• Extensive field-based training and opportunities to work with local and state natural-resource professionals.
• Instruction in contemporary tools such as GIS, telemetry and laboratory methods used in wildlife science.
• Student organisations, clubs and outreach programmes that build leadership, communication and public engagement skills important for conservation careers.
• Preparation for direct entry into the workforce or for continuation to graduate study, with career support services to help secure internships and employment.