Conservation Biology

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The only program of its kind in Ontario. You will focus on the conservation of at-risk animal populations using current research and technologies, including genetics and environmental DNA (eDNA).

Please note: Applications for this program will open in October.

Program Highlights

Animal conservation biology has grown in recent years with the global loss of species diversity due to several factors, including habitat destruction, disease, and climate change. The Conservation Biology program will help address this – it is the only diploma program in Ontario that focuses solely on applied skills and research in animal biodiversity conservation.

As part of the program, you will:

  • Develop a broad background in animal biodiversity conservation
  • Take part in field work and lab work specific to conserving animal populations
  • Carry out genetic and tissue sampling with a focus on eDNA
  • Develop skills and knowledge in identifying at-risk aquatic and terrestrial animals, and assess their risk factors
  • Perform field surveys, and complete an applied research project in semester 4

Why Choose Fleming

Fleming College has more grads working in the environmental and natural resources sectors than any other college in Canada. We have an established reputation in the field. Our dedicated and knowledgeable faculty will guide you on your academic journey as you take advantage of our exceptional learning spaces – indoors and outside. A common first semester, shared with the other diploma programs in our School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, provides you with a solid foundation before you go on to specialize in your area of study.

Experiential Learning

In addition to the field work and labs within your courses, the program includes a 40-hour field camp in semester 3. In semester 4, you will undertake a semester-long applied research project, which will give you real-world work experience.

Common First Semester

Students in our School’s diploma programs take the same courses for first semester. This common focus exposes you to a variety of career options and other programs. You will have the freedom to explore and obtain a multidisciplinary perspective, while you acquire a base of knowledge and fundamental skills. Although students are accepted into a specific program for their first semester, the common first semester allows you to change direction if you find another program or career area is more appealing. Once you have successfully completed the common first semester, you can enter the program of your choice in second semester, subject to enrolment capacity.

Is This You?

You are passionate about conserving the world’s animal biodiversity, and you love working outdoors. Experience working or volunteering in an environmental or natural resource-related organization is an asset. You should also possess:

  • Analytical skills
  • A good background in high school sciences and maths
  • Willingness to work in challenging outdoor situations and weather conditions
  • The ability to work collaboratively with others
  • Willingness to move for work

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities within this field are varied. Graduates could work for federal, provincial/territorial or municipal government departments, colleges and universities, environmental consulting firms, industry firms, or as self-employed consultants.

Careers include:

  • Biological Technician/Technologist
  • Conservation Technician
  • Aquatic Biology Technician
  • Fisheries Technician
  • Conservation and Fishery Officer
  • Zoological Technician/Technologist
  • Species at Risk Technician
  • Wildlife Resources Technician

Pathway Program

If you do not meet the admission requirements for Conservation Biology, consider the General Arts and Science - Environmental and Natural Resource Studies Option. This pathway program may provide the requirements you need for admission while you earn credit for first semester of Conservation Biology.

You may consider continuing your education in the Fish and Wildlife Technician, Ecosystem Management Technician, Environmental Technician or another of our two-year environmental or natural resource sciences diploma programs. In just two more semesters, you can obtain an additional Technician diploma and expand your career opportunities. You might also want to consider taking one of our graduate certificate programs to enhance your skill set. These include Aquaculture Co-op, Applied Planning – Environmental, or Conservation and Environmental Law Enforcement.

Health Requirements

You will be required to show proof of an adequate titre from rabies vaccination before entering semester 3. This applies to all students including those who may transfer into or enter the program with advanced standing.

Students will handle mammal carcasses so, for health and safety reasons, those who do not provide proof of an adequate titre will not be permitted access to the Pathology Lab nor will they be able to complete the program successfully.

Minimum Admission Requirements

Students applying to Conservation Biology must meet the following requirements:

OSSD (or equivalent mature student status OSSD) including Gr 12 C English and Gr 12 C Math. Completion of Grade 12 C/U Biology and Chemistry is recommended.

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