Wildlife sciences | Conservation law enforcement emphasis
Bachelor of Science
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Protect and manage wildlife
Wildlife conservation depends on professionals who can protect natural resources, enforce conservation laws and help ensure future generations can enjoy healthy ecosystems and abundant wildlife populations.
University of Idaho's Bachelor of Science in wildlife sciences with a conservation law enforcement emphasis combines wildlife biology, ecology and resource management with coursework in criminology, communication and natural resource law. You'll develop the scientific knowledge and professional skills needed to protect wildlife, conserve habitat and support responsible stewardship of natural resources.
Through hands-on learning experiences, fieldwork and internship opportunities, you'll study wildlife populations and explore the legal, social and environmental factors that influence conservation decisions. You'll learn how laws and regulations shape wildlife management while building the leadership, communication and critical-thinking skills needed to serve communities and natural resources alike.
In this program, you’ll build a strong foundation in wildlife science, management and criminal justice, while developing the skills needed to protect and sustain our natural resources. Graduates pursue a variety of impactful careers, including wildlife law enforcement officer, conservation officer, Fish and Game warden, park ranger, customs and border protection officer and more.
This program is a great fit if you:
- Care about protecting wildlife and natural resources
- Enjoy learning about wildlife and their habitats
- Aspire to be a leader in sustainability and resource management
Defend natural resources
Curriculum
The 120-credit B.S. in wildlife sciences, conservation and law enforcement emphasis combines wildlife science coursework with applied learning experiences that prepare students for careers in conservation, resource protection and natural resources law enforcement.
You’ll develop expertise in wildlife biology, ecology, habitat management and wildlife conservation while exploring topics such as criminology, natural resources law, public communication and environmental policy. The curriculum emphasizes the scientific, social and regulatory factors that influence wildlife management and conservation across diverse ecosystems.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,089 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Natural Sciences Managers
$153,637 - Conservation Scientists • Range Managers • Park Naturalists
$76,794 - Fish and Game Wardens
$85,118 - Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers • Customs and Border Protection Officers
$89,147 - Compliance Officers
$84,213
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Gain hands-on experience through our close associations with Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and local state and federal agencies.
- The Wildlife Society: Gain access to a professional network, career tools and certification resources.
- Ecology and Conservation Biology Club
- CNR Living, Learning Community: Live and study with other College of Natural Resources students
Internships
Internships with the Taylor Wilderness Research Station and state and federal agency partners give you valuable, hands-on experience in wildlife law enforcement. Additionally, the Department of Fish and Wildlife Sciences offers work-study positions and scholarships to support your academic and career goals.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
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.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Learn more about STEM approved CIP/degree codes
College of Natural Resources scholarships
The College of Natural Resources administers scholarships for students in wildlife science and related programs, awarded based on academic merit, financial need, program of study and background. You are encouraged to apply each year through the CNR advising office and the U of I Scholarships website.
Paid internship and work opportunities
All students in the department of fish and wildlife sciences have access to paid internship and work positions through on-campus research locations and partnerships with state agencies. These positions provide income alongside professional experience to strengthen your resume and build a lasting network of professionals outside the university.
Application instructions
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.
Overview
- In-state: $9,824
- Out-of-state: $29,300
- WUE/Invitation to Idaho: $13,538
Related Topics
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
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Connect with program faculty
Why choose wildlife sciences at U of I?
Wildlife sciences students at University of Idaho gain the scientific knowledge, hands-on experience and professional connections needed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing wildlife populations, habitat conservation and natural resource management.
- Work with wildlife from your first year – Gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, research projects and applied learning opportunities alongside faculty studying wildlife ecology, conservation and management.
- Learn in the landscapes you'll help protect – Study forests, mountains, rangelands and aquatic ecosystems throughout Idaho and the Pacific Northwest, with opportunities at our research stations and outdoor classrooms.
- Turn science into conservation impact – Explore how wildlife management, habitat restoration and natural resource stewardship help sustain healthy ecosystems, biodiversity and communities.
- Prepare for meaningful careers – Graduate ready for opportunities as a wildlife biologist, habitat manager, conservation officer, wildlife technician, park ranger or natural resource professional, or continue your education through graduate study.
- Build connections that last – Develop leadership skills and expand your professional network through internships, research experiences, student organizations and professional societies such as The Wildlife Society.