Wildlife Management (A.S)
School of Arts and Sciences

Flexible Learning Format with convenient, accessible scheduling through online or classroom adult-oriented learning environments. Regional Accreditation — The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. Affordable Tuition — Full-time financial aid availability and reasonable costs. Faculty — Academic credentials and real-world experience.

Why choose a career in wildlife management?
If you love hunting, fishing, hiking, and the great outdoors, then an associate degree in wildlife management is the degree for you! Students who have an aptitude for science, who enjoy interactions with people and animals, and who love outdoor life will enjoy the studies of wildlife management. 

Why choose MSU?
Location, location, location!  “Wild, Wonderful, West Virginia” is the perfect setting for studies in Wildlife Management. Our MSU Beckley campus is convenient to state parks and forests, rivers and streams, and is the perfect locale in which to study ecology, botany, ichthyology, and biology. West Virginia is a state well known for its mountainous terrain and its abundance of wildlife. Our course’s practical focus is designed to prepare students for field work, and our natural flora and fauna provide the perfect habitat for hands-on study and research.

The faculty for our classes are drawn from working professionals - adjuncts from the Division of Natural Resources, Forestry, National Park Service, for example - who share their first-hand knowledge and experience.

What can I study?
The Associate of science degree in wildlife management is the only one in the state of West Virginia; it offers interdisciplinary preparation for a career working with wildlife populations and resources. Students may concentrate their studies in wildlife management, fisheries management, forestry, or a recreation focus. Hands-on internships are available with natural resources management, conservation, and preservation-focused agencies. This entry level degree is a great way to allow you to gauge your interest in the field and then further your education with a B.S. or M.S. degree.

Career Opportunities
Students who obtain an associate degree in wildlife management are prepared for entry-level positions with government agencies and private organizations focused on wildlife, fisheries, and natural resources. Entry level positions such as park aide and wildlife aide are available with an associate degree. Further education can lead to other career options such as conservation officer, wildlife education specialist, fishery or wildlife biologist, environmental education, natural resources management, conservationist, forestry specialist, park naturalist, and field researcher. Positions are often found with state natural resources agencies, state and national parks, state and national forests, game reserves, federal agencies, county water or soil conservation districts, and a myriad of private organizations such as mines and research groups. 

Please see our catalog for program and degree requirements.