PRESERVE NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENSURE PUBLIC SAFETY
The University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point Conservation Law Enforcement (CLE) program can be pursued as either a major or a minor, offering flexible pathways into careers in natural resource protection and public service. The program combines academic backgrounds in natural resources, criminal justice, communication, social sciences, and humanities with specialized law-enforcement training to prepare students for work in conservation, regulatory enforcement, and environmental stewardship.
Conservation Law enforcement Major
Why Study Conservation Law Enforcement at UW-Stevens Point?
Combining academic backgrounds in natural resources, criminal justice, communication, social sciences, and humanities with specialized training in law enforcement provides you with a broad knowledge base and the skills needed to secure a job after graduation.
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Where are they now?
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WHAT TO EXPECT
With an academic background in criminology, law, and ethics, and specialized training in law enforcement, a Conservation Law Enforcement degree prepares you for jobs including:
- Conservation Wardens
- Police Officers
- Park Rangers
- Environmental Officers
You will graduate with a law enforcement certification through a fifteen-credit police recruit school training program incorporated into your four-year program.
GET INVOLVED ON CAMPUS
Discover your passions, build your resume, and make friends along the way! Whether it is joining a student organization, working at one of our centers, or participating in research at one of our three field stations, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get involved.
- Join the Student Law Enforcement Association, the Park and Recreation Association, or any of our other 200+ student organizations housed within Campus Activities and Student Engagement.
- There are many opportunities for you to work side-by-side with faculty and staff, conducting scientific research and performing laboratory analysis. You also have the opportunity to present your research findings at professional meetings, conferences, and our annual Jim and Katie Krause CNR Student Research Symposium.
- Read the CNR Reporter, a weekly newsletter, for information on upcoming presentations, student organization meeting times, and other important happenings on and around campus.
GAIN EXPERIENCE OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
You will gain additional hands-on experiences in all areas of natural resource management during a required summer field experience generally taken between your sophomore and junior years. Choose between an intensive, six-week, hands-on summer field experience at our Treehaven residential facility or our European Environmental Seminar, where students learn how European natural resource management compares to the United States.
Summer internships and jobs are another great way to build your resume. We make them easy to find through our partnership with Handshake.
What is the Conservation Law Enforcement Minor?
This 31-credit minor gives students an in-depth understanding of:
Students gain both theoretical knowledge and real-world experience, with the option to earn law enforcement academy credentials that lead directly to job-readiness.
For a breakdown of course options, credit requirements, and guidance on choosing the best track for your goals, visit the UWSP Catalog page or speak with a College of Natural Resources adviser.
Two Tracks to Fit Your Career Goals
Students can choose from two academic tracks for the Conservation Law Enforcement minor:
Academy Track
This path includes attending a law enforcement academy, qualifying students to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
Core Courses:
- 2 Natural Resource/Social Science Electives
- NRES 320 – Natural Resources Communication and Public Relations
- NRES 392 – Conservation Law Enforcement Theory and Principles
- NRES 473 – Resource Policy and Law
Non-Academy Track
For those not attending an academy, this track focuses on academic coursework and expands elective options.
Core Courses:
- 7 Natural Resource/Social Science Electives
- Same three required courses as the academy track
Who Should Enroll?
All University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point students are eligible for the Conservation Law Enforcement Minor, which is especially valuable for those majoring in Environmental Science and Management, Environmental Law and Policy, Criminal Justice, Forestry, Wildlife, or Fisheries.
This minor is well-suited for students preparing for careers such as Conservation Officer or Game Warden, Park Ranger, Police Officer or Sheriff’s Deputy, and Environmental Special Agent or Investigator, providing focused training at the intersection of natural resources and law enforcement.
Career Ready Skills
Completing this minor demonstrates your ability to:
- Interpret and enforce environmental laws
- Communicate effectively with the public
- Work across disciplines in law, policy, and natural sciences
- Step directly into careers requiring law enforcement certification (with academy track)
Meet your Faculty and Staff
Our faculty members within the Environment and Society discipline bring a wide array of knowledge and experience to our indoor and outdoor classrooms at UW-Stevens Point.
View all our faculty and staff.
Michael Rader
- Associate Professor of Conservation and Parks Law Enforce…
Environment and Society
Our programs in the Environment and Society discipline provide hands-on experience in conservation, environmental science, and sustainability, preparing you for careers in fields like conservation planning, environmental education, conservation law enforcement, and environmental science and management. Through fieldwork, internships, and service-learning, you’ll develop the skills to protect natural resources and promote sustainability. Start your journey toward a meaningful career making an impact today.
College of Natural Resources
800 Reserve Street
Stevens Point, WI 54481-3897
715-346-4617
cnr@uwsp.edu
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