Curriculum « Fisheries & Wildlife Administration « Graduate Degrees & Programs « Online Degrees « Home

Fisheries and wildlife administration – Curriculum

The Professional Science Master's in Fisheries and Wildlife Administration (PSMFWA) online degree program includes an interdisciplinary curriculum, professional skills training and an internship. 

Program curriculum – Minimum of 57 credits needed to graduate

Students work with an academic adviser to choose courses that will meet their personal career goals. Because of the diverse selection of courses offered online through OSU Ecampus, students can focus on topics that best meet their interest and path in life.

The PSMFWA curriculum is divided into five required sections, which are listed below. Each section offers a variety of courses to complete each requirement.

Core courses (18-20 credits)
Course topics include field methods, ecology management, fishery biology, mammal conservation and management, sustainable natural resources, as well as structured decision-making in natural resources, limnology, wildlife behavior, biology of invasive species and many others.

Policy courses (6-7 credits)
Course topics include environmental law, politics and ecological policy, ocean law and Native American law. 

Professional cohort courses (minimum of 18 credits) 
All PSMFWA students are required to complete professional coursework that integrates scientific skills. These courses are developed in collaboration with industry partners and provide a unique experience for students. Courses include communication and the practice of science, research ethics, accounting and finance for scientists, management and marketing for scientific technologies and innovation management. 

All new PSM students are required to attend a five-day cohort building workshop in Yachats, Ore. during the third week of September. Students are strongly encouraged to attend the orientation workshop and complete the 18 credits of professional coursework in their first year of enrollment.