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Environmental Crime Investigation & Enforcement
Applied Bachelor of Science

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Protect the Environment Through Science

Train to defend wildlife, ecosystems, and communities through law enforcement and science. From field investigations to courtroom testimony, you’ll gain the practical and ethical skills to serve as a protector of our natural world. This accelerated 90-credit degree blends criminal justice with conservation for a career with impact.

Next Start Date
February 23, 2026
Program Details
In-person Learning
3 Years (90 Credits)
Applied Bachelor's

  90 Credits

  • 42 General Education
  • 42 Program Core
  • 6 Electives

   Location

Unity Environmental University at Pineland

  Built for Action

Courtroom, fieldwork, and firearms training all in one degree.

  Mentorship

Train directly with expert faculty and conservation law leaders.

 

Important Disclosure

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Why this Program Stands Out

More than a degree, it’s a mission. Here’s why students choose Environmental Crime Investigation & Enforcement at Unity:

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Protect ecosystems

Learn conservation law enforcement to preserve biodiversity and habitats.

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Courtroom ready

Master evidence, testimony, and professional reporting to stand strong in court.

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Field-tested

Firearms, forensics, and field navigation prepare you for real-world enforcement.

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Societal impact

Build trust and engage ethically with diverse communities and cultures.

What You’ll Learn

  • Explain the role of conservation law enforcement in the U.S. justice system.
  • Demonstrate skills in ecology, wildlife, and marine law enforcement, including firearms proficiency.
  • Produce professional written and oral communications for law enforcement and courtroom use.
  • Adapt communication strategies for diverse communities and organizations.
  • Apply ethical principles with attention to justice, cultural awareness, and systemic bias.
  • Complete an immersive internship for professional readiness.
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Featured Courses

Dive into specialized courses that blend conservation and justice.

CLE 1001

Law and Order: Understanding Criminal Justice

Explore the U.S. criminal justice system through law, history, and sociology. Gain applied knowledge to understand justice, roles, and responsibilities in democracy.

Green law concept. international environmental law Climate or en
CLE 2003

Firearms Training: Safety and Skills for Law Enforcement

Train in firearm safety, use, and maintenance with live range practice under State of Maine standards. Gain critical law and liability knowledge alongside tactical proficiency.

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CLE 3001

Safeguarding Nature: Wildlife & Marine Law Enforcement

Learn to enforce laws protecting wildlife and marine ecosystems. Practice field investigations, evidence collection, and conservation law application.

Woman testing river water using a test tube.
CLE 4001

Wildlife Forensics: Crime Scene Investigations

Master investigative and forensic science methods for wildlife crime. Collect and preserve evidence, prepare reports, and simulate courtroom testimony.

biologist Inspecting groundwater contamination
Internship

Train Before You Serve

Every student completes a required internship or capstone. Gain real-world law enforcement and conservation experience with agencies, parks, or justice organizations before graduation.

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Careers & Salary Outlook

Enter high-impact careers in environmental law enforcement. Examples with national median salaries:

 

$ 48 ,110
Forestry Patrol Officer

Range: $30,000 – $90,120
Outlook: Bright outlook

$ 71 ,690
Environmental Enforcement Officer

Range: $41,050 – $118,060
Outlook: 31,000 openings

$ 59 ,500
Fish & Game Warden

Range: $31,200 – $85,300
Outlook: 700 openings

$ 64 ,460
Park Ranger

Range: $41,360 – $102,670
Outlook: 2,100 openings

$ 27 ,270
Recreational Protective Service Worker

Range: $20,460 – $36,930
Outlook: 35,000 openings

Ready to Protect and Serve the Environment?

Take the next step toward a career in conservation law enforcement. Apply today or request info to start your journey.