Animal Ecology Options

In addition to the core curriculum for Animal Ecology, students choose an option, or specialty area. Students declare their chosen option during their sophomore year at ISU.

Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences

This option combines a fisheries concentration with aquatic sciences. Focus is on basic fish biology, aquatic ecology, fisheries management, and aquatic ecosystems. Students learn about fish culture, fish diseases, nutrition, aquaculture, societal and cultural concerns as well as the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of a variety of aquatic environments. Students also learn about watershed management.

Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences careers can include: Fisheries Biologist, Hatchery Manager, Fish & Wildlife Specialist, Aquaculture Specialist, Lake Manager, Aquatic Biologist, Wetland Scientist, Restoration Ecologist, Environmental Consultant, Water Quality Technician

Interpretation of Natural Resources

The Interpretation option concentrates on natural history, earth science, and communication techniques. Students in this option will also study the natural environment and learn how to teach others about natural resource-related topics.

Interpretation careers can include: Environmental Educator, Naturalist, Interpreter, Park Ranger, Extension Educator, Natural Resources Policy or Public Relations worker, Spokesperson

Pre-Veterinary and Wildlife Care

The Pre-vet/Wildlife Care option is suited for two groups of people. The first group is interested in continuing their education in the veterinary field. Students take courses to meet admission requirements for veterinary school. The second group is interested in pursuing careers in the field of wildlife care. Courses cover animal physiology, animal disease detection and prevention, animal behavior, and advanced animal ecology.

Animal Care careers can include: Zookeeper, Wildlife Rehabilitator, Veterinarian, Animal Trainer

Wildlife

The Wildlife option concentrates on wildlife habitats, interactions within and among populations, and wildlife management. In addition to in-depth study of wildlife, the option offers courses in policy, administration and law in order to prepare students for the public decision-making process that is necessary in most areas of wildlife management.

Wildlife careers can include: Ornithologist, Fish & Wildlife Specialist, Park Ranger, Wildlife Biologist, Conservation Law Enforcement, Ecologist, Natural Resources Technician, Habitat Manager

Core Curriculum

Listed here are the required curriculum for both the current and previous years. These courses are required for all Animal Ecology students no matter which of the above options they choose. These courses act as a foundation for which the classes within the desired option are built upon.