Wildlife/Fisheries Biology

Master of Science (M.S.)

Equip yourself with a future in biological research or scientific leadership.

Prepare for your career in wildlife and fisheries biology within the private or public sector at Frostburg State University. Through the 36-credit program you will obtain certifications with professional organizations such as The Wildlife Society and the American Fisheries Society.

You will focus your studies on one or more of the following areas: aquaculture, aquatic ecology, terrestrial ecology, conservation biology, management techniques, population biology, evolutionary ecology, aquatic toxicology, habitat analysis, systematics and systems modeling.

You have the opportunity to choose from a thesis or non-thesis track:

Thesis

A major part of the degree program is the research associated with your project. The thesis is reflected in 6 credit hours minimum of Thesis (BIOL 710), although the effort expended on the thesis research may substantially exceed that typically expended on 6 credit hours of standard coursework. You must present a public seminar on your thesis research, after you have written the thesis. After the presentation, you must defend the thesis, responding to questions from your Master’s Committee concerning your thesis research.

Non- Thesis

For the non-thesis option, you must complete 12-18 credits of additional elective courses, chosen in consultation with your advisor, instead of the capstone/thesis.

Location

Frostburg

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Wildlife/Fisheries Biology Program Highlights

Joint educational endeavor between FSU and the Center for Environmental Science’s nearby Appalachian Laboratory.
Use the exceptional scientific facilities available to graduate students on the FSU campus, including the mammalogy, ornithology, herpetology, ichthyology and forest ecology labs, microscopy complex, stream ecology lab, environmental lab, vertebrate museum collections and other such resources.
Be a part of faculty led international study trips, if desired.
Delaware students receive in-state resident tuition rates through the Academic Common Market agreement.

What can I do with a Wildlife/Fisheries Biology degree?

$72,860

Median pay for zoologists and wildlife biologists scientist (BLS 2024)

Related Programs

Wildlife Biologist

Zoologist

Environmental Scientist

State and federal government agencies continue to employ a significant share of wildlife biologists, particularly in conservation, land management, and regulatory roles, although opportunities also exist in private consulting firms, nonprofit organizations, research institutions, and environmental organizations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of wildlife biologists is projected to grow about 2 percent from 2024 to 2034. Despite modest growth, the profession is expected to generate approximately 1,400 job openings per year, largely due to retirements and workforce turnover. Many professionals in this field pursue advanced education, with master’s and doctoral degrees increasingly important for research leadership, specialized roles, and career advancement. For more information, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.

What will I learn in the Master of Science in Wildlife/Fisheries Biology Program?

You will take part in wildlife fieldwork and research where you will use information from your research methods and statistics courses, as well as complete extensive research. If you choose the thesis track, your research will culminate in writing your master's thesis and presenting your work at a public seminar. If you choose the non-thesis track, you will have the ability to build an area of focus for your studies based on the elective courses you will select with the guidance of your faculty advisor. Regardless of the track you choose, you will study in small class sizes that allow for maximum interaction with class members and faculty who hold the highest degrees in their respective fields

Why choose Frostburg State University for Graduate School?

Hear from a few of our alumni on the benefits of a graduate degree from Frostburg State.

Program Details

Program Curriculum Admission Requirements Admission Process

A Frostburg State education: more valuable than ever.

With nationally recognized academic programs, real-world learning experiences, a top-notch support system, and a thriving student life, Frostburg State is a place where you can discover yourself, define your goals, and prepare for your future.

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