The Department of Biology is committed to providing a collaborative learning environment where students can study all forms of life at the molecular, organismal and population levels. The Wildlife Conservation program offers applied learning experiences through coursework and internships where students develop skills in areas such as: mapping GPS, wildlife capture and restraint, Wildland fire behavior and ecology, and plant, mammal, bird and herpetological field identification. Students gain hands-on experience through both lab and field exercises. Internships and independent research opportunities give students the competitive edge for career opportunities and graduate and professional schools.

Missouri Western’s degree in Wildlife Conservation and Management is the only program in Missouri to offer all of the required courses for professional certification as a Wildlife Biologist by The Wildlife Society. The Wildlife Conservation and Management major provides students with the background needed to start careers in various state, federal and nongovernmental agencies related to conservation and management.

Missouri Western’s student chapter of The Wildlife Society provides opportunities for hands-on field work, including prairie restoration, deer spotlight surveys at Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge and quail surveys. Members also work with state, federal and local agencies and organizations, attend workshops and conferences and get great research opportunities and internships.