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College of Natural Resources Conservation Biology Minor

Minor

Understand, Protect and Restore Biodiversity

The Conservation Biology Minor at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point (UWSP) prepares students to tackle today’s most pressing environmental challenges through a science-based and interdisciplinary approach. This minor is perfect for students interested in applying biology, policy, and decision science to real-world conservation problems.

What is Conservation Biology?

Conservation Biology is often described as a “crisis discipline,” a field of science focused on protecting biodiversity even when complete information is unavailable. It is deeply interdisciplinary, drawing on ecology, sociology, economics, ethics, public policy, and more to find workable solutions to environmental issues.

The minor provides the tools to understand complex conservation problems and to engage with the multiple stakeholders involved in environmental decision-making. Students also build a strong foundation in applied ecology and restoration, giving them practical skills to protect natural systems.

Program Highlights

  • Credit Requirement: 23–25 credits
  • GPA Requirement: Minimum 2.25 in minor coursework
  • Eligibility: Open to students who have completed CNR and Biology core courses

Core Course Areas (8 total courses)

  1. Ecology & Conservation Science (12 credits)
    Courses include General Ecology, Conservation Biology, and Restoration Ecology.
  2. Economics, Policy & Planning (6 credits)
    Learn about resource economics, land-use policy, and decision-making in conservation.
  3. Animal & Plant Taxonomy (5–7 credits)
    Choose from multiple options to gain knowledge in species identification and classification.

Prerequisite Coursework
Students must have completed:

  • CNR Core: NRES 150, 151, 250, and 251
  • Biology Core: BIOL 110 and 111 or BIOL 101

These are typically part of majors within the College of Natural Resources (CNR) or Biology.

Why Choose the Conservation Biology Minor?

  • Apply science to solve real-world conservation challenges
  • Learn to balance ecological needs with social, political, and economic realities
  • Gain interdisciplinary skills in ecology, resource policy, and stakeholder communication
  • Strengthen your résumé for jobs or graduate school in conservation, restoration, or ecology
  • Customize the program with flexible course options across key disciplines

Career Applications

Students who complete this minor are prepared for careers in:

  • Conservation Science and Ecology
  • Environmental Consulting
  • Nonprofit and NGO Conservation Work
  • Natural Resource Policy and Planning
  • Habitat Restoration
  • Wildlife and Land Management

This minor is also excellent preparation for graduate studies in conservation biology, environmental science, ecology, or public policy.

Ideal Pairings

This minor complements most majors in the College of Natural Resources, especially:

  • Wildlife Ecology
  • Forestry – Forest Management
  • Environmental Science and Management
  • Fisheries and Water Resources – Water Resources
  • Biology

Learn More

For a full list of course options and how this minor fits with your academic goals, visit the UWSP Catalog page or consult with your academic adviser.