Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences (M.S.) - Wildlife Sciences Specialization

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus

Student looking at data on a computer screen.

Program Coordinator/Contact

Michele Dudash, Department Head and Professor
Department of Natural Resource Management
Edgar S. McFadden Biostress Laboratory 138, Box 2140B
605-688-6121

Program Information

The Department of Natural Resource Management offers graduate programs in both Biological Science with a Specialization in Natural Resource Management and Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences. Both degree programs award M.S. and Ph.D. degrees.

Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences

The M.S. degree program in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences is intended to educate students for management-level positions with state and federal agencies, private companies, and for the pursuit of higher academic degrees. By using specifically identified coursework and mentoring, we strive to assist students in developing their intellectual capabilities in working with natural resources and people. In addition, each student must propose and conduct an original scientific investigation. Placement rates for M.S. graduates into positions as fisheries biologists, wildlife biologists, and other natural resource positions with state and federal agencies is extremely high.

Accreditation, Licensure, and Certification

Certification

Certification is available through the American Fisheries Society and The Wildlife Society.

Course Delivery Format

The Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences graduate program is primarily an on-campus program. However, field research may require extended time periods away from campus.

Student Learning Outcomes

Be knowledgeable regarding biological systems at a level appropriate to a M.S. degree holder.
Be able to effectively express themselves orally and in written form.
Understand the scientific method of solving problems.
Be computer and statistically capable.
Be specialized in some area of wildlife or fisheries, but still be broadly based in knowledge.
Be able to conduct scholarly research.
Understand the relationships between biological information and socioeconomic factors.
Demonstrate professional development, especially regarding the need for continued learning after their degree program.
Develop a concern and feeling for the natural resources of the world.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science

Option A - Thesis

30 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

NRM 582 - Natural Resource Management Biometry Credits: 2
and NRM 582L - Natural Resource Management Biometry Lab Credits: 1
or WL 720 - Quantitative Fisheries Science Credits: 3
or STAT course numbered 500-level or higher
or an additional course approved by committee
NRM 790 - Seminar (COM) Credits: 1 (2 credits required)
WL 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (5-10 credits required)
Additional course credits designed to meet individual interests and needs as required by the student’s Advisory Committee. Credits: 15-20

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not Required
TOEFL: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Admission to all degree programs requires that a faculty member from the department agrees to serve as the major advisor.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .