Biological Sciences (Conservation Biology and Ecology), BS

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Discover how living systems adapt to environmental change and human influence. Build scientific knowledge and practical experience to address biodiversity loss, habitat degradation and ecosystem restoration. Prepare to design solutions that conserve species, sustain ecosystems and promote a more resilient, sustainable planet.

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science program in biological sciences with a concentration in conservation biology and ecology focuses on understanding and conserving Earth's biological diversity while restoring damaged ecosystems. Students study how organisms interact with each other and their environments, integrating ecological theory with practical conservation strategies.

Through research, laboratory work, and field experiences, students examine the effects of human activity on ecosystems and biodiversity. Students explore methods to protect species, restore ecological balance, and promote ecosystem resilience. Coursework includes ecology, conservation biology, environmental policy, and quantitative analysis, providing a foundation for applied and theoretical work in biological and environmental sciences.

The program is available as an accelerated degree option. Students pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences should consult The College's website for requirements and additional information.

Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate preparedness for graduate/professional degree programs and/or employment.
  • Effectively communicate complex scientific concepts, ideas, and reasoning with appropriate use of relevant sources and evidence.
  • Demonstrate capacity for scientific thinking by applying relevant background knowledge to develop scientific explanations.

At a Glance: program details
  • Location:
    Tempe campus,
    or
    online
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: No
  • Math Intensity: Moderate
  • Initial Math Course: MAT 251 - Calculus for Life Sciences
Required Courses (Major Map)

Major Map

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Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Freshman Transfer International Readmission


Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.


Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.


Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

Biology
Deepen your knowledge of the life sciences and build strong conceptual foundations in frontier areas of modern biology.

Biology Program Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

Microbiology
When you become an expert in microbes, you'll be able to contribute to the greater good. Learn how microbes impact human health and the environment, and receive theoretical and practical training in your chosen area of interest.

Microbiology Program Website | Locations: TEMPE

Computational Life Sciences
Be part of the data-driven revolution in the life sciences. Today's breakthroughs rely on powerful computational methods that extend beyond the bench, enabling once impossible discoveries. In this program, you'll gain advanced skills in data analysis, modeling and informatics that complement experimental approaches, preparing you to tackle complex biological questions.

Computational Life Sciences Program Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

Global Management
Gain hands-on experience and learn from the diverse perspectives of a global cohort of classmates. This program offers applied learning opportunities, 16 concentration options and practical internships in global settings.

Global Management Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Biology (Biology and Society)
Do you need more than a foundation in biology? Do you want to take your training into society and bring about change? Within this multidisciplinary program, you can develop knowledge and skills for tangible action and prepare for employment, a doctoral program, or other professional studies.

Biology (Biology and Society) Program Website | Locations: TEMPE

Molecular and Cellular Biology
Do you want to understand the fundamental molecular events at the core of all life? You'll gain skills in contemporary techniques and have the opportunity to tailor the program around your research and career interests.

Molecular and Cellular Biology Program Website | Locations: TEMPE

Public Administration
Prepare yourself as a results-oriented, strategic leader capable of keen decision-making through this prestigious, flexible degree program. Become a leader in the public sector by engaging with distinguished faculty and a cohort of exceptional peers.

Public Administration Program Website | Locations: DTPHX,HAINA,ONLNE


Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.

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Career Outlook

Graduates are prepared for careers in conservation, ecology, environmental consulting, wildlife management, education and sustainability planning. The program also provides a foundation for graduate study in ecology, environmental law and policy, and conservation biology. Students gain skills for restoring ecosystems and protecting biodiversity in an evolving global environment.

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary

  • Growth: 7.3%
  • Median Salary*: $83,460.00
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Climate Change Policy Analysts

  • Growth: 4.4%
  • Median Salary*: $80,060.00

Conservation Scientists

  • Growth: 3.4%
  • Median Salary*: $67,950.00

Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health

  • Growth: 4.4%
  • Median Salary*: $80,060.00

Fish and Game Wardens

  • Growth: -6%
  • Median Salary*: $68,180.00

Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

  • Growth: 1.6%
  • Median Salary*: $72,860.00

Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians

  • Growth: 8.2%
  • Median Salary*: $108,970.00
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Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

  • Growth: -1.6%
  • Median Salary*: $64,580.00

Water Resource Specialists

  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: $161,180.00

Park Naturalists

  • Growth: 3.4%
  • Median Salary*: $67,950.00

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Sun Icon Bright Outlook | Leaf Icon Green Occupation


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Global Experience

Through study abroad programs, biological sciences students are able to experience distinct biological environments and gain an understanding of conservation biology practices worldwide. They are exposed to a variety of laws, policies and practices in biology-centric environments and expand their knowledge of how science impacts society. Students also are able to engage in community service and outreach activities, which can help them stand out in graduate study or a professional career.

With more than 300 programs available, Global Education programs enable students to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these programs for students majoring in biological sciences with a concentration in conservation biology and ecology.

Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information.

Learn about online options

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

  • [email protected]
  • 480/727-6277


Concurrent degree programs are specially designed academic programs which provide high-achieving undergraduate students the opportunity to complete two distinct but complementary bachelor degrees at the same time. Students must meet minimum admissions standards for both programs and be accepted individually by both colleges offering the concurrent program.
Students pursuing concurrent degrees earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. ASU offers students two ways to earn concurrent degrees: by choosing a predetermined combination or creating their own combination. Predetermined combinations have a single admissions application and one easy to follow major map. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor. Either way, concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests.
Accelerated bachelor's and master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving undergraduate students who want the opportunity to combine undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
ASU students may accelerate their studies by earning a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years (for some programs) or by earning a bachelor's degree in 2.5 or 3 years.

Accelerated bachelor's and master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving undergraduate students who want the opportunity to combine undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs, featuring the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty, allow students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years.

Accelerated bachelor's degree programs allow students to choose either a 2.5- or a 3-year path while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students can opt to fast-track their studies after acceptance into a participating program by connecting with their academic advisor.
This is only the first required math course. This program may contain additional math courses; See Major Map for details.
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required.
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required. Courses included in the General level: MAT 142
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required. Courses included in the Moderate level: MAT 117, MAT 119, MAT 170, MAT 210, SOS 101, CPI 200
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required. Courses included in the Substantial level: MAT 251, MAT 265. MAT 266, MAT 267, MAT 270, MAT 271, MAT 272, MAT 274, MAT 275
A rolling deadline means that applications will continue to be reviewed on a regular basis until the semester begins. International students should be mindful of visa deadlines to ensure there is time to produce necessary visa documents. Applicants are encouraged to complete and submit application materials as soon as possible for consideration.
A final deadline means that all applications and application materials must be received by Graduate Admissions by the deadline date. Applications that are incomplete may not be considered after the final deadline. Applications that are submitted past the final deadline may not be considered.
A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed and on a space available basis. An application is complete after all materials are received by Graduate Admissions.
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