Learn what makes each bachelor’s program unique and find the best fit for your academic or career goals
Are you interested in land management, animal husbandry or habitat conservation? Want to pursue a career that preserves biodiversity and promotes sustainable practices? Hoping to work with domesticated animals, wildlife or exotic creatures?
If yes, earning a degree focused on animal science and conservation online from Oregon State University is a great match for you.
Known for its steadfast commitment to the natural world and deep research expertise across the conservation, natural and animal sciences, Oregon State offers several degree programs online that are designed for students with interests like yours.
Whether you see yourself working hands-on with animal populations, in a laboratory studying genetics and species evolution, or out in the field managing wildlands to promote conservation, you can gain the skills you need online with Oregon State.
Read on to better understand the benefits of earning your wildlife degree online in these bachelor’s programs:
- Fisheries, wildlife, and conservation sciences
- Rangeland sciences
- Zoology
- Animal sciences
While these programs may share certain aspects, each offers unique features and areas of focus that will make a big impact as you plot your career. Use the links below to explore each program’s curriculum and find the best fit for you.
Fisheries, wildlife, and conservation sciences
The lowdown
If you want to pursue a hands-on career working directly with wild terrestrial and aquatic populations around the world — including managing and conserving their habitats — this program can help you move in that direction.
Gain practical skills in applied sciences that focus on conserving biodiversity, restoring ecological systems and maintaining sustainable animal populations. Best of all, you’ll work with an advisor to refine your career goals and create a 24-credit specialization tailored to your interests.
They said it
“Our students seek to change the world through sustainable management and conservation of fish and wildlife species and the habitats they depend upon. Whether on campus or online, as a student in Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences you will gain knowledge and technical skills for evidence-based conservation, with an emphasis on real-world problem solving, gaining professional experience before graduation.” – Bruce Dugger, professor and associate department head, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife
Learn more about fisheries, wildlife, and conservation sciences »
Rangeland sciences
The lowdown
Nearly half the world is classified as rangeland. Sustainable management of public and private lands is crucial, as these lands provide goods and services humans rely on.
Oregon State’s rangeland sciences program can help you become an ecologist who understands how human and natural ecosystems are linked. The program will equip you with the knowledge and skills to help manage and conserve vast rangelands through experiential learning experiences focused on landscape analysis, restoration, ecohydrology, wildlife habitat conservation, and land and resource management planning.
They said it
“If someone wants to make a difference in regards to natural resources, the ecological health of our planet or environmental issues, it likely involves rangelands. Rangelands provide us a wealth of ecosystem services in really cool ways.” — Yvette Gibson, rangeland sciences instructor, Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences
Learn more about rangeland sciences »
Zoology
The lowdown
Zoology is the scientific study of all animals, from invertebrates like worms to land-based mammals like elephants. If you’re passionate about animals and interested in careers in conservation, research, education, consulting or field work, this rigorous online program could be just what you’re looking for.
From abomasa to zygodactyly, the zoology program offers scientific training across major areas of life sciences, including genetics, cell biology, ecology, evolution, physiology and conservation biology.
They said it
“The zoology bachelor’s online program will teach you all about the ecology, evolution and diversity of animals as well as how to apply important scientific principles to social and policy issues. Most importantly, the major will help you develop skills applicable to real-life situations in the workforce.” — Brock McLeod, coordinator of undergraduate success and engagement, Department of Integrative Biology
Animal sciences
The lowdown
Domesticated animals are a crucial part of everyday life. And everywhere you find domesticated animals, you’ll find jobs. This science-based program will prepare you for work in diverse settings such as livestock farms, ranches, animal shelters, stables and more.
Science-focused courses in animal nutrition, behavior, reproduction and genetics are enhanced with virtual visits to Oregon State’s Dairy Center, Sheep Center, Clark Meat Science Center and Horse Center.
They said it
“If students want to learn about all aspects of domestic animals, the animal sciences degree is the right fit. Students will explore everything from behavior and welfare, nutrition to reproduction, genetics and animal breeding, management, product quality and ethics.” — Janell Johnson, senior instructor and head academic advisor with the College of Agricultural Sciences
Learn more about animal sciences »
Want to explore more options?
Research and compare all of Oregon State’s online undergraduate degrees in the conservation and natural sciences on our website.
Have a question about the application process? Our enrollment services team is here to help you gather information about Oregon State’s wildlife conservation degrees online.
