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100% Online Master of Professional Science Degree

Build a Career in Conservation and Advocacy

Specialize in sustainable solutions that protect wildlife and their habitats.

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Unity’s online programs are trusted by over 10,000 students across all 50 states.
88% of Unity graduates are employed or earning advanced degrees within 6 months.
Program Overview

Wildlife Conservation & Advocacy

This master’s program is designed to empower you with both ecological and social science principles to address wildlife conservation challenges. Through dynamic coursework, you will develop practical skills in science communication, data analysis, and community engagement.

Career Outlook: Natural Sciences Managers in the U.S.

79 K
Number of jobs in 2024*
4 %
Median annual salary in through 2034*
$ 161 k
Median annual salary in 2024*

*Source: O*Net/U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Unity Environmental University cannot guarantee employment. Salary data represents averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience.

Next Start Date
June 1, 2026
Program Details
Online Learning
12 Months
Master's (30 Credits)
$550/credit (~$16.5k)
CAREER OUTCOMES

What Can I Do With a Master’s in Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy?

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Wildlife Policy Advocate

Champion wildlife protection through legislation and regulatory engagement.

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International Wildlife Law Specialist

Navigate treaties and law to protect wildlife across borders.

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Wildlife Campaign Strategist

Design and execute public campaigns that drive conservation outcomes.

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Conservation Fundraising Director

Secure major gifts and grants to fund wildlife protection programs.

Unity student Aymee.

“It…contradicted that myth that an online program is just going to be sitting at a computer.”

Aymee Laurain

MPS in Wildlife Conservation and Management
View Aymee’s Full Quote
What you’ll learn

Understanding the Relationship Between Advocacy and Protection

  • Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by applying wildlife ecology and management principles to real-world conservation challenges
  • Evaluate ecological, social, and economic factors influencing the conservation of wildlife species, populations, and ecosystems
  • Design and implement communication and outreach strategies to involve communities and stakeholders in wildlife conservation efforts
  • Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to address wildlife conservation problems and develop actionable solutions
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Education with impact. Affordable Tuition. Simplified Financial Aid.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Take action for wildlife conservation and advocacy to help build a more sustainable future.

Start Your Degree
Awards and recognition

Proudly Recognized for Excellence

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Tuition Rate Lock

Unity’s tuition is locked through 2030, meaning your rate won’t increase while you’re enrolled, providing cost certainty from start to finish.

Total Tuition Cost: $16,500

The total degree tuition falls below the annual federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan limit, making it possible to finance your education without relying on additional private loans.

Military Friendly

Unity supports active-duty service members, veterans, and their families with a reduced tuition rate of $535/credit. VA education benefits, including the GI Bill®, Chapter 31, Chapter 35, Active Duty TA and others, may be used toward the cost of your degree.

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NO SURPRISES. NO UNNECESSARY FEES.

Transparent, Predictable Pricing

See why 98% of Unity students don’t need private loans.

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Affordable, Transparent Tuition

With no hidden fees!

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Flexible Payment Options

Plans that fit your budget.

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Locked-In Tuition

7 years with no tuition increase.

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Earn While You Learn

Work full-time while studying.

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Personalized Financial Plan

Know your cost before you start.

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Low Textbook Costs

Free materials in most courses.

Never an Application Fee

Apply For Free

Learn from Leaders

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Learn from Leaders

PhD in Animal Physiology

Ruth Greaves

Global Expert in Amphibian Conservation and Reproduction
More Info
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Learn from Leaders

Ph.D. in Biological Anthropology, B.S. in Anthropology and Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation

Domenic Romanello

Global Expert in Biological Anthropology and Conservation
More Info

More Stories

Ruth Greaves
Global Expert in Amphibian Conservation and Reproduction
Domenic Romanello
Global Expert in Biological Anthropology and Conservation
FAQ

Have Questions About the Master of Professional Science in Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy?

Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy is about protecting animals and their homes while finding sustainable solutions to the challenges they face. In this program, you’ll learn how to blend science with social strategies to promote wildlife conservation. From learning about animals to understanding how to communicate effectively, it’s hands-on and interactive. You’ll gain skills in research, data analysis, and community engagement to make a real difference in wildlife conservation, whether it’s on a local or global scale.

The MPS in Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy provides students with the knowledge and skills to promote the conservation of wildlife and their habitats and advocate for sustainable solutions to the challenges facing wildlife. By combining principles of social science with ecological conservation and management techniques, the program prepares students to engage in campaign strategies, advocacy, and communication to promote wildlife conservation at local, national, and international levels.

Through interactive coursework, students learn research methodologies, data analysis, science communication, and how to engage with people and communities to reach conservation goals. Graduates will be prepared for careers with government agencies, non-profit organizations, private sector firms, or academia. The degree provides a unique and interdisciplinary education to prepare students to develop sustainable conservation solutions that benefit both people and wildlife.

The timeframe for completion is up to you! Enroll in 6 credits per term and complete the program within just one year. Alternatively, opt for part-time study by taking one course at a time. Whichever path you choose, we’re here to support your educational journey every step of the way.

Research Core: 15 credits

  • SNRM 505 Human Dimensions of Wildlife Management
  • PROF 510 Communication for Environmental Professionals
  • PROF 515 Ethical Practice and Policy
  • PROF 590 Capstone I
  • PROF 690 Capstone II

Major Program Core: 15 credits

  • SNRM 507 Wildlife Ecology and Management
  • SNRM 515 Conservation Ecology
  • SNRM 610 Wildlife Conservation Campaigns and Action
  • PSYC 505 Behavioral Economics: Understanding What Shapes Decision-Making
  • MKTG 505 Market Research

The Master of Professional Science (MPS) is a graduate degree designed to combine scientific knowledge with practical skills relevant to the workforce. Unlike traditional science degrees, the MPS emphasizes hands-on experience and professional development, preparing students for careers that require both expertise in science and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world contexts. MPS programs focus on a range of skills that are directly applicable to the workplace:

  • Project Management: Students learn to plan, execute, and manage projects, often in scientific or environmental settings.
  • Communication: Emphasis is placed on effectively communicating complex scientific ideas to diverse audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public.
  • Policy Analysis: Students gain the ability to understand and analyze policies related to their field, making them valuable assets in governmental and organizational decision-making processes.
  • Technical Proficiency: Students develop a range of specialized skills and techniques relevant to their discipline, such as animal training, conservation advocacy, environmental monitoring, or other tools essential to their field.

The MS degree is a traditional graduate program focused on deepening scientific understanding through research and academic study.

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