Professional Practice in Wildlife Careers

This course introduces career paths and professional development in wildlife conservation and management. Participants compare work across agencies, Tribal programs, nonprofits, consulting, universities, and the private sector; examine how funding and institutional conditions shape opportunities; assess their own interests and preparation; and explore education, experience, and professional relationships. The course culminates in a portfolio and a realistic career action plan.

The course has 5 weeks of self-paced instruction, including weekly sessions on Wednesdays between 2:00-5:00 PM Eastern US Time. These sessions include live discussion online or live-streamed from the classroom at Colby-Sawyer College. Assessments must be completed during the 5-week instructional period.

After the 5-week period ends, learners have access to material on Canvas for an additional 2 weeks.

Fall (5-week units with 2 additional weeks of access):

November 16 - Dec 20, 2026

None

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Describe the range of career paths in wildlife conservation and management across federal and state agencies, tribal programs, nonprofits, consulting, academia, and the private sector.

• Compare the duties, required qualifications, and work settings of multiple wildlife career paths taking into account how legal and institutional frameworks and ecological, social, economic, and political trends shape roles and demand.

• Locate and interpret relevant job postings to determine the education, coursework, and experience required for specific positions.

• Assess your own values, skills, and experience against target positions to identify strengths and gaps.

• Evaluate degree pathways, professional memberships and certifications (e.g., Certified Wildlife Biologist® with TWS and Ecologist with ESA), and training outside the university to determine how they close gaps and fit a chosen career goal.

• Distinguish among volunteer, internship, seasonal, temporary, and permanent positions, and explain how each contributes to career progression.

• Locate and evaluate experiential opportunities that align with your interests and skills gaps, using jobs boards and agency portals.

• Synthesize course concepts and evidence on career pathways into a portfolio with a resume/CV and realistic, time-bound plan that integrates education, experience, and relationships and that addresses potential barriers and alternative paths.