Customizable Curricula

As part of each track, students can choose from a variety of upper-level electives. These options allow students to tailor the program to their specific interests and ensuring they are prepared for their next steps.

Hands-on Laboratory courses

Students partake in laboratory courses that focus on skill sets ranging from general to topic specific. Students are exposed to various various general laboratory skills such as microscopy, dissection, and sterile techniques; molecular techniques in DNA and RNA protocols such as extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR); field skills such as bird, mammal, fish, reptile, and amphibian identification; and computer-based skills such as Esri ArcPro, ArcMap, R/RStudio, and PAST statistical software.

Research based seminar classes

Conservation biology majors have the opportunity to conduct research with faculty. These experiences develop technical skills, critical thinking, and scientific and technical writing. Students will have to opportunity to present their research in both poster and oral presentations at a variety of local and regional conferences.

Professional Development

Throughout their time students will partake in a variety of professional development activities, such as CV/resume construction, mock interviews, guidance through the application processes, writing personal statements, and exposure to professionals.

Students have the opportunity to join a variety of clubs that focus on skill development, have professional and networking opportunities, and provide various volunteer opportunities. Some clubs of interest include:

The Cumberland Mountain Research Center provides students with research and volunteer opportunities in the field.

Students go on to enter the workforce, attend graduate programs, and teach.

Previous students have gained employment with:

Tennessee Department of Education
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
Tennessee State Parks

Students have continued their education in programs at:

University Kentucky

University Pittsburgh

Clemson University

Montana State University

University of Tennessee