Conservation Biology - Major - Bachelor of Science Degree

Major: Conservation Biology
Degree awarded: Bachelor of Science
Total credit hours: 67-68
Internship/Practicum opportunities: Visit the Career Development Center for internship information.

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Online Academic Catalog Details / Required Courses

About Conservation Biology

In a world of rapid industrial expansion and population growth, natural habitats for essential flora and fauna are diminishing. This makes wildlife conservation more crucial than ever.

Our Conservation Biology program, available as a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts, offers in-depth knowledge of contemporary conservation practices. In this popular program, you'll critically observe and analyze life, applying classroom learning to real-world scenarios, and preparing to make a positive impact on our ecosystems.

Conservation Biology Major Objectives

The conservation biology program at Thiel College provides a comprehensive curriculum so that students gain knowledge about biodiversity, the fundamental principles of conservation and to develop an appreciation for conservation needs at both local and global levels.

Understand biological principles and their implications including evolution, structure and function, pathways and transformation of energy and matter, and biological systems.
Understand biological principles and their implications from the molecular to the ecosystem levels of organization.
Discover the interdisciplinary nature of conservation strategies and societal implications.
Communicate effectively about biological and ecological matters Demonstrate effective communication in oral and written forms in the field.
Cultivate interpersonal skills and learn to be a valuable member of a team.
Network with distinguished Conservation Biology alumni.

Conservation Biology Curriculum

After choosing to pursue a conservation biology degree, you’ll select between a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts. Both typically require four years of full-time study, but they differ in focus. The BS emphasizes math and science courses, diving deeper into biological sciences, while the BA offers flexibility, allowing for a broader range of courses in the arts and the option to pursue a minor or double major. Whichever path you choose, you'll gain a solid foundation in Conservation Biology tailored to your academic and career goals.

Review the Academic Catalog (2025-2026) for detailed course listings.

Scholarship Opportunities

Thiel College offers scholarships to students for reasons such as academic success, community service or involvement, exemplary leadership and more! The scholarships available to Conservation Biology majors are:

Marion G. Resch Science Scholarship at Thiel College
Dr. Florence West Tribute to Dr. Bly
Ruth and Sheridan Brown Allied Health Scholarship
The Dr. Judith A Crissman '64 Endowed Scholarship Fund
The Maenpa Family Biotechnology Endowed Scholarship Fund at Thiel College
Elizabeth McElhaney Scholarship
J. Scott Morrison Endowment for Science and Religion
Arthur E. Smith Scholarship Fund
TWC Amelia Earhart Scholarship
The Ethel Smith Vierheller Award Fund
Irene Wintersteen Memorial Science Scholarship

Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more about the types of aid available to students.

Clubs & Organizations

It's easy to get involved on campus! Joining a student club or organization is an excellent way to meet others and gain leadership experience. An education major might be interested in the following clubs and organizations:

Environmental Club
Outdoor Recreation Club
Sigma Xi (Scientific Research Society)
Beta Beta Beta (National Conservation Biology Honorary)

Visit our Campus Life page to see a full list of student clubs and organizations.

Alumni & Careers

Conservation biology coursework spans many disciplines, including biology, contemporary ethical issues, genetics, and biostatistics. Conservation biologists work in a variety of settings, such as federal, state, or local government agencies, non-governmental conservation agencies, and private environmental consulting companies.

Learn More About Thiel’s Conservation Biology Major

Becoming a conservation biologist requires a combination of education, practical experience, and a passion for the environment. With courses that build deep knowledge and skills needed to excel in a variety of fields, Thiel’s undergraduate degree in Conservation Biology combines a comprehensive curriculum and hands-on learning opportunities give students a transformative education.