Degree Programs

Master's and Doctoral Degree Requirements

The Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology offers a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degree in Wildlife Ecology and Management, with the degree in Conservation Biology and its track in Fisheries and Aquatic Biology offered through the interdisciplinary conservation biology graduate program. The curriculum in Wildlife Ecology and Management is flexible with no specific courses being universally required. Details of the Conservation Biology and Fisheries and Aquatic Biology track are described on the Conservation Biology website.

Most bachelor’s degree applicants are advised to pursue a master’s degree before undertaking a doctoral program, but exceptions are made. If you make exceptionally good progress in your master’s program, you may be advised to switch into a Ph.D. program before completing your master’s program.

Two types of master’s degrees are offered: Plan A, involving a thesis, and Plan B, with more emphasis on course-work and with one or more independent projects. While most students pursue the Plan A option, both programs can prepare you for entering professional careers. Certain types of students, such as those in mid-career or from foreign countries, are sometimes better served by the Plan B approach. A student who starts with one plan may, under appropriate circumstances, switch to the other.

The Plan A program requires a minimum of 14 semester credits in the major field, 6 credits in one or more related fields outside the major, and 10 master’s thesis credits. Plan B course requirements include 14 credits in the major and 6 in related outside fields. A balance of 10 credits, chosen in consultation with the adviser, must be completed to meet the 30-credit minimum.

Courses in the doctoral degree program, which always involves a thesis, are prescribed in accordance with an individual’s needs and career direction. The Graduate School requires 24 thesis credits. Additional information on requirements and course listings can be found in the Graduate School Catalog. To obtain a copy, contact the Graduate School, 309 Johnston Hall, 101 Pleasant St. S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55455.