Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy
Master of Professional Science
Earn your wildlife conservation degree online
and begin a career advocating for wildlife.
The Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy degree 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. Our online conservation program also emphasizes advocacy training, enabling you to campaign for sustainable solutions that protect wildlife and their habitats. Graduates of our wildlife conservation and advocacy master's program will be well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, the private sector, and academia.
In the MPS in Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy program you'll learn to:
- 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
Career Outlook
What can I do with a master's in conservation?
Careers for Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy graduates.
Natural Sciences Managers jobs in the U.S., 2022.
Natural Sciences Managers pay, 2022.
Estimated U.S. job growth for Natural Sciences Managers through 2022.
Natural Sciences Managers jobs in the U.S., 2022.
Natural Sciences Managers pay, 2022.
Estimated U.S. job growth for Natural Sciences Managers through 2022.
*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.
Examples of online coursework in wildlife conservation and advocacy:
Conservation Ecology
Conservation challenges often arise and taking a transdisciplinary approach to solving those challenges is key. You will play the role of a state biologist evaluating the status and habitat of a local threatened species under consideration for the endangered species listing process. You will be required to investigate the biology, habitat requirements, and current viability of their target species, as well as the quality of the local habitat.
Human Dimensions of Wildlife Management
Strong communication skills and professional interactions with key stakeholders are increasingly important in wildlife management. In this course, you will progress through a model of the Structured Decision-Making (SDM) process to address a wildlife management issue. After examining the scenario and the involved parties, you will make recommendations on key elements of the SDM process.
Behavioral Economics
Why do humans make decisions? The answer to this question involves both psychology and economics. You will explain how cognitive, emotional, cultural, and social factors impact human decision-making in the context of pro-environmental or sustainable marketing and branding.
Degree requirements and courses needed to earn a sustainable master's
The Master’s in Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy degree requires 30 credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA. For a more comprehensive look into the program, view our full course catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is 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.
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What is a Master of Professional Science in Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy?
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.
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What is the difference in an MPS and an MS?
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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What courses will I take to earn a Master's of Professional Science in Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy?
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
For course requirements and a better look into your program, view our full course catalog. Then apply online for free to get started.
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How fast can I finish my online master's in Wildlife Conservation and Advocacy?
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. Contact your concierge or advisor to create your personalized plan.
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How much does it cost to receive an MPS in Wildlfe Conservation and Advocacy?
Your online education should be affordable and manageable. Thanks to our promise to keep tuition flat through 2030, you won’t be burdened with unexpected increases or fees.
Our team of distance education concierges will work with you through the admissions process to help you plan and pay for your degree. Learn more about the costs here.
Why Unity for your master's in conservation degree
+ Career Focus - Unity ranks in the top 2% of colleges for social mobility according to CollegeNET. Demand for employees with green skills is growing daily, and the sustainability core in every master’s program at Unity means that you’ll graduate with an environmental consciousness applicable to every career path.
+ Earn While You Learn - Our asynchronous model is designed to provide flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with professional and personal commitments.
+ World Renowned Faculty - Learn from faculty who are working in their field, bringing their professional network and real-world insights into the virtual classroom, fostering valuable connections for your future career.
+ Applied Learning - You’ll be required to engage your local community and environment while completing your master’s degree, giving you practical, hands-on experience while allowing you to translate theoretical knowledge into real-world solutions.
+ Personalized Support - You can rely on one-on-one professional advising, career support from your first day, unlimited mental health counseling, and more.
Experts in the field of wildlife conservation and advocacy
At Unity Environmental University, our faculty is composed of a wide range of environmental science experts who in addition to teaching, conduct their own research and various fieldwork.
Dean Kelly Boyer Ontl
Subject Matter Expert
Set off on a wild journey with Dr. Kelly Boyer Ontl—an expert in primatology and wildlife conservation! With two decades of hands-on experience, Dr. Boyer Ontl's background spans from caring for chimpanzees in West Africa to faculty roles at prestigious institutions.
Fuelled by her time in West Africa, she founded the Falémé Chimpanzee Conservation project—a beacon for conservation through education and ecological research. Dive into the hot savanna environment of southeastern Senegal with Dr. Boyer Ontl, exploring how chimpanzees adapt and the impacts of human activities.
Featured in the New York Times and Smithsonian.com, her research isn't just in textbooks—it's a captivating journey into the heart of primate behavior. Ready to swing into the world of wildlife conservation? Join Dr. Boyer Ontl on an adventure where education meets exploration!
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