Biological Sciences (Conservation Biology and Ecology), BS
Study how organisms engage with their environments, analyze ecological data, and conduct fieldwork in Arizona's deserts and beyond. Explore the science of biodiversity as you prepare to design solutions that conserve species, sustain ecosystems and promote a more resilient and sustainable planet.
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
Additional facts
STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
International students (F1) can extend U.S. work experience by 24 months.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Degree description
Biological Sciences (Conservation Biology and Ecology) program description
The Bachelor of Science program in biological sciences with a concentration in conservation biology and ecology focuses on understanding and conserving Earth's biological diversity while restoring damaged ecosystems. You study how organisms interact with each other and their environments, integrating ecological theory with practical conservation strategies.
Through research, laboratory work, and field experiences, you examine the effects of human activity on ecosystems and biodiversity. You explore methods to protect species, restore ecological balance, and promote ecosystem resilience. Coursework includes ecology, conservation biology, environmental policy, and quantitative analysis, providing a foundation for applied and theoretical work in biological and environmental sciences.
The program is available as an accelerated degree option. If you are pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you should consult The College's website for requirements and additional information.
Why specialize in conservation biology and ecology at ASU?
ASU combines the resources of a major R1 research university with extensive field-based learning opportunities. You'll learn from faculty actively researching biodiversity, ecosystems, climate impacts and species conservation, gaining direct exposure to current scientific challenges in the field.
The concentration emphasizes applied, hands-on ecological learning through evidence-based science. You'll gain experience through fieldwork, undergraduate research and data-driven environmental analysis, studying ecosystems in Arizona's unique desert environments and diverse global contexts. This combination of local and international perspectives is a hallmark of the concentration, and it prepares you to address pressing environmental challenges such as climate change, habitat loss and species conservation.
You'll receive flexible, interdisciplinary training that integrates ecology with data science, GIS, evolutionary biology and environmental modeling. These modern tools and technologies are increasingly essential in conservation and environmental decision-making.
Unique experiential learning opportunities include access to advanced research facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration across science and sustainability fields, and short-term study abroad programs such as field research in Panama and global environmental experiences in Europe.
Additional details
You can participate in many research programs offered through the school. Visit the research programs page to learn more about undergraduate research opportunities.
Courses
Explore a sample list of courses you may take in this program.
| Sample courses |
|---|
| BIO 181 General Biology I |
| BIO 182 General Biology II |
| BIO 340 General Genetics |
| BIO 345 Evolution |
| MAT 251 Calculus for Life Sciences |
| CHM 113 General Chemistry I |
Course checksheet and curriculum archive
The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.
Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).
Already completed some college courses? Build on your success.
If you earned college credit outside ASU, our transfer tools map out your progress towards a degree and help you plan next steps.
See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)What you'll learn
The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.
- Demonstrate capacity for scientific thinking by applying relevant background knowledge to analyze and/or develop scientific explanations.
- Effectively communicate complex scientific concepts, ideas, and reasoning with appropriate use of relevant sources and evidence.
- Demonstrate preparedness for graduate/professional degree programs and/or employment.
Demonstrate capacity for scientific thinking by applying relevant background knowledge to analyze and/or develop scientific explanations.
Admission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.
Explore expanded study opportunities
This program allows you to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. As a high-achieving student, accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for you to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of your master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
This program is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:
Approval to pursue the accelerated master's is typically granted during the junior year of your bachelor's degree program. If you are interested, you can learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Through study abroad programs, biological sciences students are able to experience distinct biological environments and gain an understanding of conservation biology practices worldwide. They are exposed to a variety of laws, policies and practices in biology-centric environments and expand their knowledge of how science impacts society. Students also are able to engage in community service and outreach activities, which can help them stand out in graduate study or a professional career.
With more than 300 programs available, Global Education programs enable students to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these programs for students majoring in biological sciences with a concentration in conservation biology and ecology.
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimate
Build the career and future you want
Our graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths, including:
| Career | Growth | Median Salary | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Sciences Professor | 7.3% | $84,620 | Learn more |
| Climate Change Analyst | 6.1% | $82,220 | Learn more |
| Environmental Analyst | 5.3% | $73,010 | Learn more |
| Environmental Protection Specialist | 6.1% | $82,220 | Learn more |
| Fish and Game Warden | -5.7% | $74,060 | Learn more |
| Fish and Wildlife Biologist | 3.6% | $76,780 | Learn more |
| Geographic Information Systems Technician (GIS Technician) | 5.1% | $116,580 | Learn more |
| High School Teacher | -0.2% | $72,040 | Learn more |
| Hydrogeologist | 8.2% | $167,220 | Learn more |
| Park Ranger | 5.3% | $73,010 | Learn more |
Example job titles and salaries listed are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
More about careers
Careers this conservation biology and ecology concentration prepares you for
Graduates are prepared for careers in conservation, ecology, environmental consulting, wildlife management, education and sustainability planning. The program also provides a foundation for graduate study in ecology, environmental law and policy, and conservation biology. Students gain skills for restoring ecosystems and protecting biodiversity in an evolving global environment.
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.
School of Life Sciences
|
LSC 104
sols.advising@asu.edu
480-727-6277
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
