
Do you love the outdoors and care deeply about protecting wildlife and natural habitats? Barton’s Wildlife Science program is a great first step toward a career in conservation, environmental education, or wildlife management.
Wildlife scientists play a vital role in researching animal populations, protecting ecosystems, and promoting sustainable land use. They also work to educate the public, enforce wildlife laws, and develop policies that balance the needs of people and nature.
Barton Benefits
At Barton, our areas of study are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to thrive in today’s world. Whether you're just beginning your educational journey or advancing your career, we offer flexible and rigorous programs that support your goals.
- Transfer-Ready: Complete general education and science courses designed to transfer smoothly to a four-year program
- Flexible Learning: Take classes online or face-to-face to fit your schedule
- Affordable Materials: Many courses use Open Educational Resources (OER) to reduce or eliminate textbook costs
- Personalized Support: Small class sizes mean more one-on-one attention from instructors
- Focused Curriculum: Build a strong foundation in biology, ecology, and conservation science
Wildlife science offers meaningful careers in conservation, research, and environmental protection.
- Job Growth: 4% projected through 2033
- Annual Openings: About 1,500 positions per year
- Median Salary: Around $72,800; top earners exceed $110,000
- Career Settings: Government agencies, nonprofits, parks, research labs, and consulting firms
- Career Paths: Wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, park ranger, ecological consultant, policy advisor
Wildlife science provides stable employment, strong earning potential, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on ecosystems and biodiversity.
Science with a Purpose—For Nature and Beyond.
Prepare for careers in wildlife biology, conservation, and natural resource management:
- Wildlife Biologist or Ecologist
- Conservation Scientist
- Game Warden or Park Ranger
- Environmental Educator or Naturalist
- Natural Resource Manager
- Wildlife Policy Advisor or Environmental Advocate
- Preparation for Veterinary School or Graduate Studies
Start your journey at Barton and prepare to protect and preserve the natural world through science, stewardship, and education.
Barton STEM Club
Explore. Create. Connect.
The Barton STEM Club is open to all students with an interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—regardless of major!
Members get hands-on experience and have fun participating in activities like:
- Assisting with Jack Kilby Science Day
- Hosting Mini STEM Days for local schools
- Planning and leading STEM-related events and experiments
It’s a great way to connect with fellow students, explore your interests, and build valuable leadership and teamwork skills.
Associate in Science
Wildlife Science
View the full list of Curriculum Guides (applicable for students admitted prior to Fall 2024) and Degree Maps (applicable for students admitted Fall 2024 and after).
Check out the Course Search for a full listing of courses available.
Barton Community College's Wildlife Science curriculum is designed to provide the general education requirement and core Wildlife Science courses for students who plan to transfer to a four year college or university to complete a bachelor's degree in Wildlife Science. Electives must meet the requirements of the transfer institution. Students should coordinate with their advisor for transfer requirements.
Visit the What Can I Do with My Major? webpage to find helpful resources on career paths, employers and more!