Master of Science in Biodiversity Conservation and Management
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Learn how to protect our natural world for future generations.
Earn your master’s degree in Biodiversity Conservation and Management or a graduate certificate in biodiversity science, data management, or conservation leadership from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay—100% online.
- Master of Science in Biodiversity Conservation and Management
- Graduate Certificate in Biodiversity and Conservation Science (stackable)
- Graduate Certificate in Conservation Data Management and Analysis (stackable)
- Graduate Certificate in Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management (stackable)
- Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Biodiversity Conservation and Management (foundational)
The program offers flexibility to earn the master’s degree or one or more certificates. By completing all three stackable certificates plus the capstone project you’ll earn the master’s degree. A foundational certificate is also offered for those seeking an introduction to the field.
In the Biodiversity Conservation and Management program, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge to manage complex conservation challenges facing the world today, such as climate change, managing threatened and endangered species, restoration and remediation of environmental damages, and balancing multiple recreational uses, while integrating the human perspective through community engagement and culturally responsible conservation practices.
In the program, you’ll explore topics in biodiversity science, data management, and conservation leadership, such as:
- conservation research project design,
- how to communicate project results and engage with diverse audiences,
- conservation ethics and culturally responsible conservation practices,
- data analytics and visualization,
- project management, including writing grants, building partnerships, and budgeting, and
- leadership, community engagement, and team-building skills.
Courses are entirely online—asynchronous, with zero on-campus, virtual, or in-person meeting requirements—an ideal format for busy professionals. Watch lectures, participate in online forums with your classmates, and—although assignments have deadlines—do homework whenever it’s convenient for you. Learn more about online learning with UW.
What is a stackable certificate?
Stackable credentials allow you to build your skills and career on your own schedule, over time. You can choose to earn the master’s degree or develop skills in a specific area of concentration—biodiversity science, data management, or conservation leadership—by earning a certificate.
You may choose to:
- earn a certificate that develops a specific set of skills and knowledge,
- start by earning one certificate and complete the other two certificates plus the capstone later, or
- earn the master’s degree by completing the entire curriculum including the capstone.
You can start any semester and take courses and certificates in any sequence.
New to biodiversity and conservation management? Start with a foundational certificate.
If you are new to biodiversity and conservation management, the Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Biodiversity Conservation and Management (foundational certificate) provides an introduction to the field by covering topics in biodiversity science, data management, and conservation leadership. It is possible to complete the certificate in one year, making it an easy, accessible, and affordable option for students who would like to determine their level of interest in biodiversity and conservation management before investing significant time and money in a master’s degree program. Courses and credits earned in the foundational certificate apply to the stackable certificates and master’s degree, should you choose to continue in any of the programs.
Who Should Apply?
The Biodiversity Conservation and Management master’s degree and certificates in biodiversity science, data management, and conservation leadership are an ideal choice for those seeking to expand their skills and advance their career in conservation or environmental management who need the flexibility an online program offers. As a graduate, you’ll be qualified to pursue leadership and management roles within a variety of conservation organizations.
About UW-Green Bay
The Biodiversity Conservation and Management master’s degree and certificates in biodiversity science, data management, and conservation leadership are offered through UW-Green Bay’s College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. The College includes the nationally acclaimed Cofrin Center for Biodiversity and the Environmental Management and Business Institute (EMBI). UW-Green Bay is committed to fostering new and growing opportunities for students, faculty, and the community, in environmental science, conservation, and sustainability.
UW-Green Bay Biodiversity Conservation and Management faculty have expertise in a wide range of scientific fields, including: conservation biology, biodiversity research methods, restoration ecology, conservation physiology, evolutionary biology, human dimensions of conservation, behavioral ecology, conservation project management, and community and ecosystem ecology.
Accreditation
Whether online or on campus, University of Wisconsin programs have a reputation for delivering world-class education and student support. Accreditation is your assurance that you will graduate with skills that are relevant to your field and valued by employers. The Biodiversity Conservation and Management program is approved by the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents and is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Admission and application requirements vary for the Master of Science in Biodiversity Conservation and Management and the certificate programs. Please review the following information carefully. UW-Green Bay may waive some of these requirements as part of the comprehensive application process.
To be eligible for the Master of Science in Biodiversity Conservation and Management, students must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree, in any discipline, from an accredited university (min. 3.0 GPA).
Students with a GPA of less than 3.0 may be considered for provisional admission and should contact an enrollment adviser for more information.
Aptitude tests, such as the GRE, are not required for admission.
You will also need to submit the following application materials:
- official college transcripts,
- your resume,
- two letters of recommendation (professional or academic) using the letter of evaluation form, and
- a personal statement of up to 1,000 words describing the reasons behind your decision to pursue this degree.
To be eligible for any of the certificate programs, students must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree, in any discipline, from an accredited university (no min. GPA required).
Aptitude tests, such as the GRE, are not required for admission.
You will also need to submit the following application materials:
- official college transcripts*.
*If you completed your bachelor’s degree at UW-Green Bay you do not have to submit official transcripts.
International Guidelines
This program welcomes online students from around the world. Online students do not qualify for an F-1 Student Visa to travel to the U.S., but instead can participate in our online courses remotely. If your native language is not English and/or you attended school outside of the U.S., you will likely need to provide proof of English language proficiency and an official translation or evaluation of academic transcripts. Requirements will vary based on a student’s academic history and home campus policies. For guidance about these requirements and how they apply to your specific situation, contact the UW-Green Bay graduate admissions office.
If you would like to apply as an International Student for an on-campus program in the UW System please refer to these resources through UW-HELP.
Application Deadline
Your online application and all required materials must be submitted to your preferred home campus generally 2-4 weeks prior to the date classes start (this varies by campus) to be considered for admission.
Are there specific enrollment/start times?
You may start the Master of Science in Biodiversity Conservation and Management, or any of the certificate programs, at the beginning of any semester. Fall semester begins in early September, spring semester in late January, and summer semester in early June.
How to Apply
While you are free to apply on your own, many prospective students find it helpful to speak with an enrollment adviser first.
Step 1. Visit the University of Wisconsin System Online Admission Application to login or create an account.
Step 2. Apply to UW-Green Bay and select “Biodiversity Conservation and Management-Online”. A nonrefundable $56 application fee is required for most graduate degree-seeking students applying to a UW institution. *For a limited time, we are offering an application fee waiver for the Spring, Summer, and Fall 2025 semesters. To redeem, use coupon code APPLY25 on the UW Online Application payment page.
Step 3. Send your resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation; and arrange to have your official college transcripts (from each institution you attended) sent to the UW-Green Bay graduate student admissions office.
Step 1. Visit the University of Wisconsin System Online Admission Application to login or create an account.
Step 2. Apply to UW-Green Bay as a “Graduate Special Student” and select “Biodiversity and Conservation Science-Certificate”, “Conservation Data Management and Analysis-Certificate”, “Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management-Certificate”, or “Foundations of Biodiversity Conservation and Management-Certificate”, as applicable.
Step 3. Arrange to have your official college transcripts (from each institution you attended) sent to the UW-Green Bay graduate student admissions office. Note: if you completed your bachelor’s degree at UW-Green Bay you do not have to submit official transcripts.
Please request electronic transcripts, if this service is offered by your previous school(s), to be sent directly to the admissions email. Electronic transcripts are usually delivered more quickly than physical copies sent by mail.
Flexibility to earn your degree or a certificate. 100% online.
Stackable credentials allow you to build your skills and career on your own schedule, over time, whether you choose to earn the master’s degree or focus on developing skills in a specific area of concentration by earning a certificate.
Courses explore the human aspect of conservation, and develop skills and knowledge in conservation ecology, data analytics and visualization, spatial mapping, emerging conservation technologies, conservation research and monitoring, policy implementation, conservation leadership and community engagement.
To earn the Master of Science in Biodiversity Conservation and Management (MS), students must complete all eleven courses (31 credits).
- Nine courses (3 credits per course)
- Capstone prep course (1 credit)
- Capstone project course (3 credits)
In the capstone course, students gain valuable, practical experience through a fieldwork project. Students may be able to complete the project with their current employer, or arrange for project work with an external organization.
To earn any of the graduate certificates, students must complete the three courses (3 credits per course) in the certificate curriculum (9 credits).
- Graduate Certificate in Biodiversity and Conservation Science (stackable, 3 courses, 9 credits)
- Graduate Certificate in Conservation Data Management and Analysis (stackable, 3 courses, 9 credits)
- Graduate Certificate in Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management (stackable, 3 courses, 9 credits)
The Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Biodiversity Conservation and Management (F) consists of the first course in each of the stackable certificates (BCM 700 Conservation Ecology, BCM 705 Conservation Research and Monitoring, BCM 710 Conservation Design and Management).
Courses and certificates can be taken in any sequence, with the exception of the capstone prep and project courses, which are typically taken in the final semester once all program courses have been completed.
How long will it take to earn my degree or certificate?
Courses in the Biodiversity Conservation and Management program are offered all three semesters in rotation. Completion time depends on how many courses you take during a semester and whether you attend all three semesters. Students take 1-2 courses per semester, on average. It is possible to complete a certificate in one year. The program gives you the flexibility to formulate a completion plan with your academic advisor that takes into account time constraints such as work and personal obligations.
Biodiversity and Conservation Science-Graduate Certificate (BCS)
In this stackable certificate you'll focus on the principles of ecology and biodiversity, conservation planning, policy, the use of biological collections and taxonomic keys in conservation research and education, and explore approaches to conservation and land stewardship to address core conservation challenges.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Principles of ecology and biodiversity through the lens of conservation planning and policy. Drawing from concepts across multiple disciplines at various spatial and temporal scales in the physical and biological sciences, exploring topics and applications such as watershed management, agricultural practices, wetland delineation, population viability analysis, and ecosystem assessment. | 3 Credits |
Explore species concepts, biogeography, and phylogenetics as they relate to conservation. Evaluate the curation and use of biological collections in conservation research and education. Practice using taxonomic keys and analyzing molecular data. Students will choose taxa of particular interest for a targeted project. | 3 Credits |
A survey of current and developing approaches to conservation and land stewardship. Explore principles and emerging methods relevant to invasive species management, prescribed fire, disturbance regimes, and core conservation challenges. Innovative tools and monitoring technologies are investigated, including literature review and application to individual projects. | 3 Credits |
Conservation Data Management and Analysis-Graduate Certificate (DMA)
In this stackable certificate you’ll start with an overview of research project design including tools for acquiring, managing, and presenting conservation data. Learn how to visualize, interpret, and communicate data with hands-on experience in current applications, and foundational concepts in mapping and geospatial analysis.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Overview of current tools and best practices for designing research projects and acquiring, managing, and presenting conservation data. Topics include quality control, the importance of metadata, effective research design, statistical power, and other strategies for generating valid answers to important conservation questions. | 3 Credits |
Apply analytical tools to investigate, visualize, interpret, and communicate conservation data. Students will gain hands-on experience with applications such as the R Statistical Computing System, Microsoft Excel, and cloud-based data storage frameworks. | 3 Credits |
Foundational concepts in mapping and geospatial analysis as they apply to conservation. Process and utilize remotely sensed imagery and other geographic data. Hands-on experience using software for storing, managing, and displaying spatial information such as topography, vegetation, soil, and watershed data. | 3 Credits |
Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management-Graduate Certificate (LPM)
In this stackable certificate you’ll focus on conservation project management, including grant writing, budgeting, building partnerships, cultural competency, leading diverse teams, ethics and advocacy, strategic planning, communications, and developing an understanding of treaties, laws, and policies.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Focuses on all aspects of conservation project management, including understanding context and culture, writing grants, building partnerships, developing and managing a budget, assessing outcomes and deliverables, and communicating project results with diverse audiences. Students will explore principles of adaptive management related to conservation projects. | 3 Credits |
Principles and application of conservation relating to complexities of the human relationship with nature. Investigate and integrate social science into management, understand treaties, laws and policies, realize economic and recreational aspects, and consider ethics and advocacy. Enhance cultural competency and build capabilities for communicating and engaging with diverse audiences. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on strategies and tools for leading and implementing collaborative conservation projects. Topics include engaging conservation partners and community volunteers, strategic planning and assessment, and communicating project progress and results to diverse audiences using mixed media. Exercises will enhance leadership and team-building skills relevant to conservation objectives. | 3 Credits |
Master's Capstone (MS)
A capstone project is required to earn the master's degree, and typically completed in the final semester.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Prepares students for an applied self-directed capstone experience. Address problem identification, research, and project formulation. Culminates in an oral and written proposal with project schedule. Prerequisites: Completion of at least 15 credits, including at least one course in each of the three certificates: Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Conservation Data Management and Analysis, Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management. | 1 Credits |
The capstone course is an opportunity for students to apply what they have learned in the program by completing the proposed capstone project in a professional, laboratory, or field setting. The outcomes of the capstone project will be presented in a summary report. Prerequisite: Successful completion of BCM 790. | 3 Credits |
Course availability for the Biodiversity Conservation and Management program varies each semester, and is subject to change due to fluctuating enrollment. If you are a current student, please consult with your campus adviser prior to registration.
Program indicators appear after each course title in the course schedule, as follows:
- Master of Science in Biodiversity Conservation and Management (MS)
- Graduate Certificate in Biodiversity and Conservation Science (BCS)
- Graduate Certificate in Conservation Data Management and Analysis (DMA)
- Graduate Certificate in Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management (LPM)
- Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Biodiversity Conservation and Management (F)
Fall 2024
Course Preview Week: August 27 - September 02, 2024
Semester Dates: September 03 - December 13, 2024
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Principles of ecology and biodiversity through the lens of conservation planning and policy. Drawing from concepts across multiple disciplines at various spatial and temporal scales in the physical and biological sciences, exploring topics and applications such as watershed management, agricultural practices, wetland delineation, population viability analysis, and ecosystem assessment. | 3 Credits |
Overview of current tools and best practices for designing research projects and acquiring, managing, and presenting conservation data. Topics include quality control, the importance of metadata, effective research design, statistical power, and other strategies for generating valid answers to important conservation questions. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on all aspects of conservation project management, including understanding context and culture, writing grants, building partnerships, developing and managing a budget, assessing outcomes and deliverables, and communicating project results with diverse audiences. Students will explore principles of adaptive management related to conservation projects. | 3 Credits |
Principles and application of conservation relating to complexities of the human relationship with nature. Investigate and integrate social science into management, understand treaties, laws and policies, realize economic and recreational aspects, and consider ethics and advocacy. Enhance cultural competency and build capabilities for communicating and engaging with diverse audiences. | 3 Credits |
Explore species concepts, biogeography, and phylogenetics as they relate to conservation. Evaluate the curation and use of biological collections in conservation research and education. Practice using taxonomic keys and analyzing molecular data. Students will choose taxa of particular interest for a targeted project. | 3 Credits |
Apply analytical tools to investigate, visualize, interpret, and communicate conservation data. Students will gain hands-on experience with applications such as the R Statistical Computing System, Microsoft Excel, and cloud-based data storage frameworks. | 3 Credits |
Prepares students for an applied self-directed capstone experience. Address problem identification, research, and project formulation. Culminates in an oral and written proposal with project schedule. Prerequisites: Completion of at least 15 credits, including at least one course in each of the three certificates: Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Conservation Data Management and Analysis, Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management. | 1 Credits |
Spring 2025
Request Permission NumberCourse Preview Week: January 21 - January 27, 2025
Semester Dates: January 28 - May 09, 2025
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Principles of ecology and biodiversity through the lens of conservation planning and policy. Drawing from concepts across multiple disciplines at various spatial and temporal scales in the physical and biological sciences, exploring topics and applications such as watershed management, agricultural practices, wetland delineation, population viability analysis, and ecosystem assessment. | 3 Credits |
Overview of current tools and best practices for designing research projects and acquiring, managing, and presenting conservation data. Topics include quality control, the importance of metadata, effective research design, statistical power, and other strategies for generating valid answers to important conservation questions. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on all aspects of conservation project management, including understanding context and culture, writing grants, building partnerships, developing and managing a budget, assessing outcomes and deliverables, and communicating project results with diverse audiences. Students will explore principles of adaptive management related to conservation projects. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on strategies and tools for leading and implementing collaborative conservation projects. Topics include engaging conservation partners and community volunteers, strategic planning and assessment, and communicating project progress and results to diverse audiences using mixed media. Exercises will enhance leadership and team-building skills relevant to conservation objectives. | 3 Credits |
A survey of current and developing approaches to conservation and land stewardship. Explore principles and emerging methods relevant to invasive species management, prescribed fire, disturbance regimes, and core conservation challenges. Innovative tools and monitoring technologies are investigated, including literature review and application to individual projects. | 3 Credits |
Foundational concepts in mapping and geospatial analysis as they apply to conservation. Process and utilize remotely sensed imagery and other geographic data. Hands-on experience using software for storing, managing, and displaying spatial information such as topography, vegetation, soil, and watershed data. | 3 Credits |
Prepares students for an applied self-directed capstone experience. Address problem identification, research, and project formulation. Culminates in an oral and written proposal with project schedule. Prerequisites: Completion of at least 15 credits, including at least one course in each of the three certificates: Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Conservation Data Management and Analysis, Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management. | 1 Credits |
The capstone course is an opportunity for students to apply what they have learned in the program by completing the proposed capstone project in a professional, laboratory, or field setting. The outcomes of the capstone project will be presented in a summary report. Prerequisite: Successful completion of BCM 790. | 3 Credits |
Summer 2025
Registration Opens: March 10, 2025
Course Preview Week: May 20 - May 26, 2025
Semester Dates: May 27 - August 08, 2025
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
Principles of ecology and biodiversity through the lens of conservation planning and policy. Drawing from concepts across multiple disciplines at various spatial and temporal scales in the physical and biological sciences, exploring topics and applications such as watershed management, agricultural practices, wetland delineation, population viability analysis, and ecosystem assessment. | 3 Credits |
Overview of current tools and best practices for designing research projects and acquiring, managing, and presenting conservation data. Topics include quality control, the importance of metadata, effective research design, statistical power, and other strategies for generating valid answers to important conservation questions. | 3 Credits |
Focuses on all aspects of conservation project management, including understanding context and culture, writing grants, building partnerships, developing and managing a budget, assessing outcomes and deliverables, and communicating project results with diverse audiences. Students will explore principles of adaptive management related to conservation projects. | 3 Credits |
Principles and application of conservation relating to complexities of the human relationship with nature. Investigate and integrate social science into management, understand treaties, laws and policies, realize economic and recreational aspects, and consider ethics and advocacy. Enhance cultural competency and build capabilities for communicating and engaging with diverse audiences. | 3 Credits |
Explore species concepts, biogeography, and phylogenetics as they relate to conservation. Evaluate the curation and use of biological collections in conservation research and education. Practice using taxonomic keys and analyzing molecular data. Students will choose taxa of particular interest for a targeted project. | 3 Credits |
Apply analytical tools to investigate, visualize, interpret, and communicate conservation data. Students will gain hands-on experience with applications such as the R Statistical Computing System, Microsoft Excel, and cloud-based data storage frameworks. | 3 Credits |
Prepares students for an applied self-directed capstone experience. Address problem identification, research, and project formulation. Culminates in an oral and written proposal with project schedule. Prerequisites: Completion of at least 15 credits, including at least one course in each of the three certificates: Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Conservation Data Management and Analysis, Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management. | 1 Credits |
The capstone course is an opportunity for students to apply what they have learned in the program by completing the proposed capstone project in a professional, laboratory, or field setting. The outcomes of the capstone project will be presented in a summary report. Prerequisite: Successful completion of BCM 790. | 3 Credits |
The Biodiversity Conservation and Management program was developed with advice from experts across various conservation and environmental management disciplines to prepare graduates for successful leadership roles in a variety of biodiversity conservation settings. Program outcomes are based on current standards and best practices.
Upon completion of your master’s degree, you will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Conduct and communicate environmental research and monitoring.
- Design and implement effective methods for collecting, managing, and interpreting environmental data.
- Effectively communicate scientific information to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
Critically evaluate ethical implications and relevance of conservation initiatives through multiple lenses.
- Consider the needs of diverse communities in culturally responsible conservation practices.
- Evaluate how humans impact and are influenced by conservation and the natural world.
Interpret and comply with conservation regulations and policies.
- Consider tribal rights, treaties, and First Nations sovereignty and communities in conservation practices.
- Interpret local, state, and federal policies and regulations as they apply to conservation.
Cultivate and lead a collaborative and inclusive team representing diverse stakeholders.
- Establish and engage a cross-functional team with diverse strengths to address conservation challenges.
- Communicate information, gather feedback and build consensus to improve conservation efforts.
Design, implement and evaluate effective conservation projects.
- Develop a competitive proposal to gain support for a conservation project.
- Manage a complex project incorporating risk management, budget and personnel oversight, and outcomes assessment.
- Apply principles of adaptive management to learn from previous actions and make necessary adjustments to improve outcomes.
Integrate ecological information in conservation planning and actions.
- Use taxonomic keys and other resources to identify taxa relevant to conservation projects.
- Interpret the role of the physical and biological environment in conservation planning and policy.
- Curate and manage biological collections to support conservation, education, and outreach.
Adapt and apply innovative technology and ideas to conservation challenges.
- Demonstrate familiarity with emerging technologies, ideas, and primary literature in conservation science and environmental management.
- Utilize data tools to visualize environmental data on a landscape or ecosystem scale.
- Collect, organize and analyze data using appropriate tools and techniques.
Upon completion of this certificate, you will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Conduct and communicate environmental research and monitoring.
- Design and implement effective methods for collecting, managing, and interpreting environmental data.
Critically evaluate ethical implications and relevance of conservation initiatives through multiple lenses.
- Evaluate how humans impact and are influenced by conservation and the natural world.
Integrate ecological information in conservation planning and actions.
- Use taxonomic keys and other resources to identify taxa relevant to conservation projects.
- Interpret the role of the physical and biological environment in conservation planning and policy.
- Curate and manage biological collections to support conservation, education, and outreach.
Adapt and apply innovative technology and ideas to conservation challenges.
- Demonstrate familiarity with emerging technologies, ideas, and primary literature in conservation science and environmental management.
- Utilize data tools to visualize environmental data on a landscape or ecosystem scale.
- Collect, organize and analyze data using appropriate tools and techniques.
Upon completion of this certificate, you will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Conduct and communicate environmental research and monitoring.
- Design and implement effective methods for collecting, managing, and interpreting environmental data.
- Effectively communicate scientific information to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
Design, implement and evaluate effective conservation projects.
- Apply principles of adaptive management to learn from previous actions and make necessary adjustments to improve outcomes.
Integrate ecological information in conservation planning and actions.
- Use taxonomic keys and other resources to identify taxa relevant to conservation projects.
Adapt and apply innovative technology and ideas to conservation challenges.
- Demonstrate familiarity with emerging technologies, ideas, and primary literature in conservation science and environmental management.
- Utilize data tools to visualize environmental data on a landscape or ecosystem scale.
- Collect, organize and analyze data using appropriate tools and techniques.
Upon completion of this certificate, you will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Conduct and communicate environmental research and monitoring.
- Effectively communicate scientific information to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
Critically evaluate ethical implications and relevance of conservation initiatives through multiple lenses.
- Consider the needs of diverse communities in culturally responsible conservation practices.
- Evaluate how humans impact and are influenced by conservation and the natural world.
Interpret and comply with conservation regulations and policies.
- Consider tribal rights, treaties, and First Nations sovereignty and communities in conservation practices.
- Interpret local, state, and federal policies and regulations as they apply to conservation.
Cultivate and lead a collaborative and inclusive team representing diverse stakeholders.
- Establish and engage a cross-functional team with diverse strengths to address conservation challenges.
- Communicate information, gather feedback and build consensus to improve conservation efforts.
Design, implement and evaluate effective conservation projects.
- Develop a competitive proposal to gain support for a conservation project.
- Manage a complex project incorporating risk management, budget and personnel oversight, and outcomes assessment.
- Apply principles of adaptive management to learn from previous actions and make necessary adjustments to improve outcomes.
Upon completion of this certificate, you will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Conduct and communicate environmental research and monitoring.
- Design and implement effective methods for collecting, managing, and interpreting environmental data.
- Effectively communicate scientific information to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
Critically evaluate ethical implications and relevance of conservation initiatives through multiple lenses.
- Evaluate how humans impact and are influenced by conservation and the natural world.
Interpret and comply with conservation regulations and policies.
- Consider tribal rights, treaties, and First Nations sovereignty and communities in conservation practices.
- Interpret local, state, and federal policies and regulations as they apply to conservation.
Cultivate and lead a collaborative and inclusive team representing diverse stakeholders.
- Establish and engage a cross-functional team with diverse strengths to address conservation challenges.
Design, implement and evaluate effective conservation projects.
- Develop a competitive proposal to gain support for a conservation project.
- Manage a complex project incorporating risk management, budget and personnel oversight, and outcomes assessment.
- Apply principles of adaptive management to learn from previous actions and make necessary adjustments to improve outcomes.
Integrate ecological information in conservation planning and actions.
- Use taxonomic keys and other resources to identify taxa relevant to conservation projects.
- Interpret the role of the physical and biological environment in conservation planning and policy.
Adapt and apply innovative technology and ideas to conservation challenges.
- Collect, organize and analyze data using appropriate tools and techniques.
Tuition is a flat fee of $750 per credit. There are no additional course or program fees, with the exception of textbooks which are purchased separately.
- You’ll pay the same tuition whether you live in Wisconsin or out of state.
- You will not pay technology fees. If software or special technology is required in a course, it will be provided to you and is included in tuition.
- You will not pay segregated fees (fees for student services, activities, programs, and facilities).
- Textbooks are purchased separately and are not included in tuition.
- $23,250 total tuition for 31-credit master’s degree.
- $6,750 total tuition for 9-credit graduate certificate.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is awarded by UW-Green Bay. Students in the program are eligible to apply for UW-Green Bay scholarships. Aid is also available to eligible veterans and current members of the military, for more information contact UW-Green Bay Veteran’s Services. Students enrolling in the certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid.
- Contact UW-Green Bay Financial Aid to get started.
Please check with UW-Green Bay regarding minimum credits required to qualify for financial aid as a full- or part-time student.
Ways to Pay for Your Degree
As a returning adult student, you may consider the following sources of financial assistance to help with the cost of your education:
- Grants—award is usually based on financial need. Grants, unlike loans, generally do not have to be repaid.
- Scholarships—usually based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria, awarded by a wide range of organizations. Scholarships do not need to be repaid.
- Loans—a loan is money you borrow and must pay back with interest. Student loans are available from the federal government, private sources such as a bank or financial institution, or other sources. Federal student loans usually have lower interest rates than private loans, and offer flexible repayment plans.
- Military benefits—aid available to eligible veterans and current members of the military.
- Tuition reimbursement—a benefit offered by companies to their employees to help pay for education. Ask your human resources department if your company offers this benefit.
- Education tax benefits—research possible tax benefits with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Your first step when applying for federal and state financial aid is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal financial aid is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Students who apply early have a better chance of receiving aid, including grant aid that does not have to be repaid.
The Biodiversity Conservation and Management program offers flexibility to earn the master’s degree or one or more certificates. Students enroll in our certificate programs for a variety of reasons, including to learn new skills that help them advance in their current field or change careers. It’s possible to complete a certificate in one year, making it a convenient option for those seeking professional development.
Each certificate is comprised of 3 courses (9 total credits) from the Master of Science in Biodiversity Conservation and Management. Three of the certificates are stackable—by completing all three stackable certificates plus the master’s capstone project you’ll earn the master’s degree. A foundational certificate is also offered for those seeking an introduction to the field.
Courses and credits earned in any of the certificates apply to master’s degree, should you choose to enroll.
Biodiversity and Conservation Science-Graduate Certificate (stackable)
- You’ll focus on the principles of ecology and biodiversity, conservation planning, policy, the use of biological collections and taxonomic keys in conservation research and education, and explore approaches to conservation and land stewardship to address core conservation challenges.
- Courses: BCM 700 Conservation Ecology; BCM 725 Evolution, Biodiversity, and Conservation; BCM 745 Emerging Conservation Concepts and Technologies.
Conservation Data Management and Analysis-Graduate Certificate (stackable)
- You’ll start with an overview of research project design including tools for acquiring, managing, and presenting conservation data. Learn how to visualize, interpret, and communicate data with hands-on experience in current applications, and foundational concepts in mapping and geospatial analysis.
- Courses: BCM 705 Conservation Research and Monitoring; BCM 730 Data Analytics and Visualization; BCM 750 Spatial Analysis and Mapping.
Conservation Leadership, Policy, and Management-Graduate Certificate (stackable)
- You’ll focus on conservation project management, including grant writing, budgeting, building partnerships, cultural competency, leading diverse teams, ethics and advocacy, strategic planning, communications, and developing an understanding of treaties, laws, and policies.
- Courses: BCM 710 Conservation Design and Management; BCM 720 Human Dimensions of Conservation; BCM 740 Conservation Leadership and Community Engagement.
Foundations of Biodiversity Conservation and Management-Graduate Certificate (foundational)
- This certificate provides an introduction to the field by covering topics in conservation science, data management, and leadership.
- The curriculum consists of the first course in each of the stackable certificates.
- Courses and credits earned in this certificate apply to the stackable certificates and master’s degree, should you choose to continue in any of the programs.
- Courses: BCM 700 Conservation Ecology; BCM 705 Conservation Research and Monitoring; BCM 710 Conservation Design and Management.
Experience UW Biodiversity Conservation and Management
Learn about biodiversity conservation and management, meet the faculty, read student stories, and more. Read the blog.
