Conservation Biology Undergraduate Certificate
Certificate Requirements
The Certificate in Conservation is a multidisciplinary program of study integrating theoretical and applied topics associated with conservation biology. The certificate is intended for undergraduate students with majors in biology or in any other field who wish to develop a specialization in conservation. The certificate is offered by the Department of Biology in cooperation with the departments of Economics, History, Political Science, Social Work, and Sociology. Building on a core curriculum, students can select courses from these departments to complete their requirements. Regularly enrolled undergraduates at UMSL or individuals with baccalaureate degrees who wish to receive a Certificate in Conservation Biology are eligible to participate in the conservation certificate program. To participate, students must contact the director and seek course approval. Individuals with baccalaureate degrees who are interested in this certificate must apply to the university as unclassified undergraduates.
The certificate requires completion of 21 credit hours.
| Course Number | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Courses | ||
| Biology | ||
| BIOL 2102 | Ecology | 3 |
| BIOL 3202 | Conservation Biology | 3 |
| BIOL 3203 | Conservation Biology Laboratory | 2 |
| BIOL 4299 | Practicum In Conservation | 2 |
| Electives | ||
| The remaining 11 credits must be selected from courses listed below. Five credits must be taken from within biology and 6 credits outside biology, from at least two departments. | 11 | |
Biology | ||
| Behavioral Ecology | ||
| Population Biology | ||
| Ornithology | ||
| Ornithology Laboratory | ||
| Entomology | ||
| Entomology Laboratory | ||
Economics | ||
| International Economic Analysis | ||
| Natural Resource Economics | ||
Political Science | ||
| Environmental Policy | ||
| International Organizations and Global Problem-Solving | ||
Sociology | ||
| Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Sciences | ||
| Advanced Geographic Information Systems and Sciences | ||
| Total Hours | 21 | |
Students may substitute the above courses with other courses upon approval by the director of the certificate program.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, certificate earners will be able to:
- Explain general principles and theories underlying conservation biology, verbally or in writing, at a level for the general public or other science majors
- Develop and practice basic conservation strategies and data collection methods
- Identify ethical considerations and social dimensions associated with conservation efforts, encouraging responsible and culturally sensitive conservation