Wildlife Conservation
College or University: Louisiana Tech University
Type of degree: B.S.
Brief overview of program: The Profession of wildlife management promotes the scientific management of wildlife populations and habitat. Although many wildlife biologists are interested in hunting and fishing, participation in the profession requires a deeper understanding of ecological principles and heightened appreciation of all environmental factors influencing wildlife habitats. Today's wildlife manager faces issues as varied as wetland habitat delineation, endangered species conservation, economics of land-leasing, habitat management for biological diversity, and the ethics of consumptive wildlife use.
Tech's wildlife program is unique. No other university in North Louisiana offers a wildlife degree. Class sizes are small with fewer than 25 students in most upper division science classes. Each student is assigned a faculty advisor; dedicated faculty provide a personal touch that fosters successful academic and professional achievement. Graduates meet the requirements to become a certified wildlife biologist by the Wildlife Society. Certification is used as a hiring standard by some governmental employers.
Website: Click here for program website
Description of Facilities: Louisiana Tech is equipped with several Internet accessible computer labs and a state-of-the-art global positioning system laboratory. Radio-telemetry systems are used in teaching and research to track animal movements. An 80,000 specimen vertebrate museum and 100,000 specimen are available for teaching and research. The near-by Jackson-Bienville Wildlife Management Area along with numerous agricultural and timber tracts managed by Tech provide ample opportunities for field activities.
Field experience is an integral part of wildlife education. The close proximity of North Louisiana's rich and varied environs and Tech's positive relationships with sate and federal wildlife management agencies and private industries provide a unique opportunity for "hands-on" field experience. Student participation in classes at the Marine Gulf Coastal Lab (LUMCON) and internships with state and federal wildlife agencies enhances the learning environment and promotes successful employment after graduation.
Program Point of Contact: James G. Dickson, Ph.D.
Email: jdickson@rans.latech.edu
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