Online Conservation Law Enforcement Degree Program Info

Online degree programs for conservation law enforcement are rare, and most are hybrid programs combining online classes and in-person training. However, prospective students can find an online associate's degree program in conservation law and a bachelor's degree program in fisheries and wildlife.

Overview of an Online Conservation Law Associate's Degree

Online conservation law programs explore both basic law enforcement and conservation topics such as criminal law, earth science, biology, animal management and conservation enforcement. Graduates are prepared for employment in various positions in government agencies, as well as positions as a game and fish warden. Typical requirements for admission include sufficient SAT or ACT scores, a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) and a high school diploma or its equivalent. Honors programs may be available to those who meet specific standards.

Program Information and Requirements

Associate's degree programs typically take two years to complete. Online programs are offered via the Internet or through home-study videotapes. Virtual attendance to online courses is completed through online learning systems and discussion boards. Some schools offer internship opportunities to select students for practicum work in a conservation enforcement setting.
Accessing online courses requires a computer with an up-to-date operating system and Internet capabilities. Online courses that incorporate real-time conferences or discussions may require a headset, webcam and audio equipment.

List of Common Online Courses

General education requirements for these associate's degree programs include English, math, science, social science, humanities and speech. Core courses focus on both conservation and criminal law topics.

Laws in Conservation Enforcement Course

This class covers the overall responsibilities, problems and procedures related to conservation enforcement. Students also learn search and seizure techniques, arrest procedures, case preparation skills and judicial processes used in the industry.

Criminal Law Course

Both procedural and substantive criminal law procedures and practices are included in the criminal law curriculum. Areas of concentration include legislative power, constitutional issues and governmental influence.

Animal, Fish and Plant Management Course

This class provides an overall understanding of wildlife conservation. Online learners are trained to manage habitats and population of all aquatic, game and non-game animals.

Career Information for Graduates

In May 2008, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported most states require at least two years of college for employment as a fish and game warden. Additionally, the BLS stated once employed fish and game wardens typically must attend a 3-12 month academy to gain additional field training (www.bls.gov).

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Overview of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Fisheries and Wildlife

Online baccalaureate degree programs related to conservation law are offered as a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife. Students study science-based skills in the conservation of all species of animals. SAT or ACT test scores and a resume are typical prerequisites. Specializations may be offered in various areas of conservation.

Program Information and Requirements

Online bachelor's degree programs in conservation law enforcement require general education courses totaling approximately 54-credit hours. At some schools, students can work with faculty to develop a block of courses in specialties such as endangered species or mammal conservation in their junior year. Biology coursework may require on-campus attendance, and hands-on fieldwork options are available.
Online courses require a high-speed Internet connection and a computer meeting minimum hardware and software requirements. Online learners also require an e-mail account, up-to-date browsers and specified plug-ins. Software, such as Microsoft Word, may be required.

List of Common Courses

The core coursework in these bachelor's degree programs typically include literature and arts, writing, physical science, humanities, biology, statistics, chemistry, physics, earth science and geology. Fish and wildlife studies cover all types of animals, as well as biology and ecology.

Wildlife Adaptations Course

This class studies the diverse environmental adaption of birds (ornithology), mammals (mammalogy) and fish (ichthyology). Some areas of concentration include reproduction, behavior, genetics, physiology, anatomy and nutrition.

Fishery and Wildlife Biology and Ecology Course

Students learn the biological requirements, principles, methods and practices related to all wildlife conservation. This online course also explores ecological evaluations and relationships in the habitat, population and environment of all species.

Conservation Principles and Sampling Course

Students learn the basic limitations, history, research and ecology related to conservation and natural resource management. The class also teaches sampling techniques related to collecting, managing and communicating data on animal communities.

Career Information for Graduates

In May 2009, both the highest salaries and levels of employment for fish and game wardens were in state government, according to the BLS. Additionally, the median hourly wage in May 2009 for game wardens was $26.42, and employment in the field was expected to grow by eight percent from 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov).