The PhD Wildlife Biology is a joint program between:

• W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation
• Montana Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit
• Division of Biological Sciences

Our graduate program attracts and trains the best of the next generation of wildlife biologists. We prepare our students for leadership in government agencies, academia, and private conservation organizations by applying the highest standards in science, communication, and collaboration. The strength of the program is reflected in our students’ amazing records of scientific scholarship, outreach, and application, and built on direct and supportive interactions among students and faculty. 

The Doctor of Philosophy requires the demonstration of distinguished scholarship in a dissertation based on original and creative work. It is not granted merely as a certificate of faithful performance of a prescribed program of studies and research. This degree is designed to provide an opportunity for students to receive specialized education in fish and wildlife ecology. It involves investigation and analysis of scientific, technical or managerial subjects.