This program emphasizes the scientific method in developing critical thinking and analytical skills applied to conservation and management problems related to wildlife ecology, wildlands, restoration science and/or rangeland ecology. Depending on the emphasis, advanced training in topic specialties may be complemented by courses in statistics, geographical information systems, soil sciences, model testing, systematics, or advanced ecology.

All emphases require original research topics with the results presented in dissertation format. This research is expected to be of a publication quality and dissertation style best reflecting that of a professional journal, thus facilitating timely submissions for publication. We also encourage formal presentations at professional meetings.

These graduate programs are supported by twenty-five faculty members within the department. Their research and teaching interests include genetics and biotechnology, plant growth under environmental stress, urban landscape environments, landscape ecology, bioremediation of contaminated soils and water, wildlands restoration methods, environmental pollution, wildlife habitat and ecology, remote sensing.