College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences

Fisheries and Wildlife Science

College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences

Fisheries and Wildlife Science

Protect Ecosystems, Preserve Biodiversity, and Shape the Future of Conservation

At New Mexico State University, the Bachelor of Science in Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Ecology offers a comprehensive education that combines scientific theory with practical field experience. Our program is designed to prepare students for careers in the conservation and management of fish, wildlife and their habitats, with a focus on the diverse ecosystems of the American Southwest and beyond.

Learn more about the experience
Quick Facts

Admission Deadlines

There are no fixed deadlines*


  • Total classes: 40
  • Total credit hours: 120
  • Cost per credit hour: $223.58**

Delivery Format

In-person

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Career Pathways

A degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Science from NMSU opens the door to a wide range of exciting and meaningful careers in natural resource fields related to the management of wild animal populations and the natural systems they share.

  • Wildlife Biologist
  • Fisheries Biologist
  • Conservation Scientist
  • Ecologist
  • Environmental Consultant
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Student testing water in a tank.
Student testing water in a tank.

Degree questions, answered

Have questions about the Bachelor of Fisheries and Wildlife Science? Fill out our inquiry form.

The Experience

Studying Wildlife in Their Habitat: NMSU’s Fisheries & Wildlife Science Program Covers Zoology, Wildlife Ecology, Law, and Field Techniques for Conservation Careers

With a curriculum designed to provide both scientific knowledge and practical skills, our graduates are equipped to excel in the dynamic field of fish, wildlife and conservation ecology.

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Professional Certification

Our programs are designed to facilitate certification as a wildlife biologist by the Wildlife Society or as a fisheries biologist by the American Society of Fisheries. Such certification can enhance career opportunities with federal or state agencies.

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Scholarships Available

Get up to 100% of tuition covered with the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship.**

The Aquatic Ecology and Management Concentration is for students who want to focus on fish and aquatic systems.

The Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife Science consists of 120 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above.

Take classes in:

  • FWCE 1110G - Introduction to Natural Resources Management
  • FWCE 2110 - Principles of Fish and Wildlife Management
  • FWCE 464 - Management of Aquatic and Terrestrial Ecosystems
  • RGSC 325 - Rangeland Restoration Ecology
  • FWCE 432 - Environmental Biology of Fishes
  • FWCE 434 - Aquatic Contaminants and Toxicology
View more courses and degree road map

The Wildlife Ecology and Management Concentration is for students who plan to focus on terrestrial organisms.

The Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife Science consists of 120 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above.

Take classes in:

  • FWCE 1110G - Introduction to Natural Resources Management
  • FWCE 2110 - Principles of Fish and Wildlife Management
  • FWCE 464 - Management of Aquatic and Terrestrial Ecosystems
  • FWCE 355 - Wildlife Techniques and Analysis
  • FWCE 437 - Wildlife Damage Management
  • FWCE 447 – Wildlife Law and Policy
View more courses and degree road map
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Scholarships and Financial Aid

At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.

Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.

NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.



Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu

Accreditation

New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.