MA in Animal Behavior and Conservation

• Master of Arts (MA) in Animal Behavior and Conservation

• Master of Arts: 36 credits

The MA consists of 36 credits in graduate-level course, and all courses listed carry three credits. Most courses are offered after 5:30 p.m. so that students can work while in the program.

The sequence of course offerings enables students taking 3 courses (9 credits) per semester to graduate in 2 years.

You must meet the following minimum requirements in order to be considered for admission. Meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the program.

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
• 12 undergraduate credits in psychology, including courses in statistics and experimental psychology, are generally required. Students lacking this but with a high undergraduate GPA and general GRE scores may be admitted without a strong background in psychology. Such students may be required to take preparatory statistics and experimental courses.
• Two letters of recommendation from appropriate academic or professional references
• A statement of purpose of approximately 500 words or fewer

Working with animals in settings like zoos, sanctuaries, or training facilities.

Salary Range: $30,000 – $50,000

Working with government agencies or nonprofits to shape policies and advocate for wildlife conservation. S

Salary Range: $50,000 – $80,000

Working on projects that assess and mitigate the impact of human activities on wildlife and ecosystems.

Salary Range: Highly variable; $50,000 – $90,000

Managing programs or initiatives that aim to protect wildlife and their habitats.

Salary Range: $40,000 – $60,000

Educating visitors about wildlife, habitats, and conservation in parks or natural reserves.

Salary Range: $30,000 – $60,000

Conducting research on animal behavior and ecology in academic or research institutions.

Salary Range: 50,000-80,000

Studying animal behavior, habitats, and populations to inform conservation efforts.

Salary Range: $50,000 – $80,000

Capturing images and videos of wildlife for educational or conservation purposes. Income can vary widely based on freelance opportunities, sales, and reputation.

Salary Range: Highly variable

Providing care and rehabilitation for injured or orphaned wildlife. Salaries may vary widely but might start around $30,000 to $50,000 per year, often working for nonprofits or animal care facilities.

Salary Range: $30,000 – $50,000

Educating the public about animal behavior, conservation, and environmental issues.

Salary Range: Varies, typically $40,000 – $60,000