Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture

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Bachelor of Science in Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture

Concentrations Offered

Conservation Biology, Conservation Law Enforcement, Human-Wildlife Interactions, Wildlife Agriculture Conservation, Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science, Wildlife Veterinary Medicine

Certificates / Endorsements

Associate Wildlife Biologist, Associate Fisheries Biologist, Associate Ecologist

Top 5 Reasons to Study

Gain hands-on experience with practical opportunities in wildlife research and fisheries management.

Learn from some of the most unique labs in the nation, providing unparalleled research opportunities in wildlife biology and management.

An array of concentrations allows you to choose your path based on career goals.

Build credentials and certifications through professional organizations.

Access exceptional career outcomes with strong placement in federal and state agencies as well as private organizations.

Core
Skills

Analyze data to uncover wildlife patterns and address complex conservation challenges.
Apply field techniques to track animals, assess habitats, and monitor ecosystems effectively.
Utilize cutting-edge technology and statistical tools valued by employers in wildlife and conservation careers.
Use critical thinking to evaluate information, tackle challenges, and make informed decisions.
Solve problems creatively, understanding how local actions can create positive global impacts.

Sample
Jobs

Environmental Scientist
Biologist (especially Wildlife or Fisheries Biologist)
Fish Hatchery Manager / Fisheries Technician / Fisheries Policy Analyst
Conservation Law Enforcement Officer
Wildlife Refuge Manager

Successful Career Outcomes

Strong Job Placement Our wildlife, fisheries, and aquaculture graduates have a 94% placement rate.

Job Opportunities Employment of zoologists and wildlife biologists is projected to grow 2% from 2024 to 2034.

Top
Employment
Industries

Federal Agencies
State Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Agencies
Non-profit Conservation Organizations
Zoos and Aquariums
Veterinary and Animal Health

Brag
Points

Gain hands-on experience in our deer pens, aviary, aquaculture ponds/tanks, and the 32,000 acre Bulldog Forest.
As the research arm of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, opportunities abound to make an immediate impact in research.
Learn from the best, with endowed chairs in bobwhite quail, upland gamebirds, white-tailed deer, waterfowl, and wetlands.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

At Mississippi State University, the wildlife, fisheries, and aquaculture program lets you learn by doing as you explore ways to protect biodiversity, manage habitats, and promote sustainable natural resource use. Through hands-on experiences in the field, labs, and conservation projects, you’ll study wildlife biology, fisheries science, and conservation practices while developing skills to engage with communities and stakeholders. As a wildlife, fisheries, and aquaculture major, you’ll gain real-world experience through internships, study abroad programs, undergraduate research, and community service projects—building the knowledge, skills, and professional connections to make an impact in conservation and resource management.

Spotlight

As environmental challenges grow, our graduates play a vital role in conserving threatened species, restoring ecosystems, and advancing conservation careers that make a real impact. Accredited and field-focused, the wildlife, fisheries and aquaculture major prepares you for careers in research, policy, and management. Become part of the next generation working to ensure a sustainable future for people and nature.