Fisheries science | Conservation and law enforcement emphasis
Bachelor of Science
Help fisheries thrive
Imagine that you’re part of a team focused on protecting our fisheries resources. If this sounds intriguing, studying fisheries conservation and law enforcement might be for you.
Offered through the Department of Fish and Wildlife Sciences, this program gives you hands-on experience in on-campus fish labs and in the real world. Choose from internship opportunities with fish and wildlife agencies where you can dive deeper into the inner workings of conservation and law enforcement.
You’ll work with faculty at the forefront of fish conservation to protect and restore native and important recreational fish species. Students who opt for the conservation and law enforcement emphasis will take courses in criminology, psychology and wildlife law enforcement to gain a better understanding of the strategies used to manage interactions with the public in the realm of fishery resources.
View the sample four-year plan.
Overview
Related Topics
Reel research
Degree fit
The B.S. in fisheries sciences, conservation law enforcement emphasis is ideal for students who want to combine their love of natural resources and conservation with the excitement of law enforcement.
In this program, you’ll build a strong foundation in fishery science, management and criminal justice while developing the skills needed to serve as a front-line protector of our aquatic ecosystems. Graduates pursue a variety of rewarding careers, including wildlife law enforcement officer, Fish and Game warden, park ranger or wildlife education specialist, customs and border protection officer and more.
This program is a great fit if you:
- Care about maintaining healthy fish populations
- Enjoy learning about fish and aquatic habitats
- Want to help protect fisheries and aquatic resources
- Have strong communication and leadership skills
- Enjoy educating and engaging the public about natural resources
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,079 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Natural Sciences Managers
$152,874 - Conservation Scientists • Range Managers • Park Naturalists
$76,552 - Fish and Game Wardens
$79,922 - Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers • Customs and Border Protection Officers
$89,794 - Compliance Officers
$81,914
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, getting help and eligibility requirements, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. Additionally, we offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background, and academic programs that you can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
Gain hands-on experience through our close associations with Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and the Aquaculture Research Institute.
Clubs
- Student Chapter of the American Fisheries Society (AFS)
- Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society
- Ecology and Conservation Biology Club
- CNR Living, Learning Community (College of Natural Resources residence hall)
Internships
Internships specifically directed at U of I students are available to study fisheries conservation at the Aquaculture Research Institute (ARI) at the Hagerman Fish Culture Experiment Station and on the Moscow campus; and with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.
Other internships and scholarships are all available to students through the Department of Fish and Wildlife Sciences.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.