Wildlife Conservation (WILD)

Wildlife conservation technicians are educated in the natural sciences disciplines to meet the staffing needs of our region, state, and nation. Coursework includes study in the biological sciences such as botany, ecology, and zoology. Students learn practical applications and techniques in wildlife science, conservation, natural resource policy, biometrics, and outdoor recreation through courses that are hands-on and field oriented. Equipment use and safety, fish and wildlife management, natural history, and GIS are key components to training graduates. Ecology serves as a capstone course where material learned during the program is integrated into a final field research project report, report, and presentation. All WILD technical courses require a “C” grade or better for graduation.

Educational facilities include the College’s 150-acre Natural Resources Center located adjacent to Dillon State Park and a 70-acre wetland located on Shannon Valley Road. The Muskingum County area provides numerous outdoor laboratory sites, having one of the highest concentrations of state parks, lakes, rivers, and wildlife and forest management areas in the state.

The Wildlife Conservation program is accredited by the North American Wildlife Technology Association. Certifications which may be obtained during this program include: Hunter, Trapper and Boater Education; Project Wild; Level 1 Chainsaw; and partial completion of USFS Firefighters Red Card.

Career opportunities include local, state and federal positions with parks, wildlife, and conservation agencies. Private organizations such as The Wilds, zoos, arboretums, campgrounds, and landscape nurseries also employ graduates. The Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy at Zane State College is available for students seeking park, wildlife, or watercraft officer positions.

Students in this program will be able to:

1. Apply field data collection techniques to gather accurate environmental information.
2. Engage in professional development activities to support career advancement.
3. Identify species accurately using field identification skills.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of Ohio mammalian fauna through research and presentation of findings.
5. Utilize ornithological field methods proficiently in natural resource studies.
6. Apply safe and effective construction practices, demonstrate planning and design knowledge, and explain the role of forest and wildlife resources in natural resource construction.