Brookings Main Campus
Study of the biology and ecology of wildlife and fish species to be able to successfully conserve and manage them for their long term persistence.
The Ph.D. degree program in wildlife and fisheries sciences is intended to educate students for upper-level management, research and administrative positions with state and federal agencies, private companies and academic institutions. Academic career opportunities also exist for Ph.D. graduates in all the departmental disciplines, preparing students for the responsibilities of teaching, research and service, required for faculty positions with universities and colleges. By building on the educational foundation that students obtain from B.S. and M.S. degree work, we endeavor to raise them to a higher intellectual plateau. While coursework is involved, this educational experience is primarily based on research and mentoring. This degree requires original thought and research contributions, synthesis and development of information, and contributions to the world and its natural resources.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Have an undergraduate or master's degree in biology or related field.
- Are interested in wildlife species and habitats.
- Like learning about wildlife ecology.
- Care about conservation and management of wildlife for the future.
- Enjoy spending time outdoors and want to be out in the field doing research.
Career Opportunities
- State and federal wildlife or fisheries biologist
- Hatchery manager
- Natural resource consultant
- Park naturalist
- Research scientist
- Academic professor and researcher