About the Field and Interdisciplinary Major
About the Field
The alarming rate of climate change, habitat destruction and, species extinction over the last 2 decades has catalyzed our resolve to find solutions to growing environmental problems: the contamination of air, water and soil; the spread of toxic chemicals; invading species driving out native populations, and the progressive loss of habitats that species need to grow, survive, and reproduce. These problems are not simple; finding solutions requires the integration and interpretation of biological, chemical, geological, and social sciences.
About the Major
Coursework in the undergraduate interdisciplinary "Conservation and Environmental Science" major provides training in areas such as ecosystem management, natural resources conservation, environmental assessment, and environmental education. The major has a flexible structure, consisting of a series of required courses plus electives that students choose according to their individual interest. Due to the breadth and flexibility of this major, it is extremely important that students seek advising early in their program and continually consult with the Director or Coordinator. Affiliated faculty members from the following collaborating departments are also available for students to contact: Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Geosciences, and Geography.
Students may choose to focus their studies within "four areas": Land Resources, Water Resources, Environmental Analysis, or Biological Resources. Within the Biological Resources area, students may concentrate on Aquatic Ecology, Plant Ecology, or Animal Ecology.
Resources/Research and Internship Opportunities
In addition to the resources provided by UWM Departments of Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Geosciences, and Geography, students in the Conservation program have access to educational research opportunities at the UWM Field Station in Ozaukee County and the Great Lakes Water Institute on the Milwaukee Harbor. Students are encouraged to participate in independent research with university faculty. To gain practical experience working in the conservation field, many majors take advantage of internship opportunities with local or regional government, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, National Park Service, Milwaukee Public Museum, Milwaukee County Zoo, regional consulting firms, nature centers, and other conservation organizations.
