Conservation Biology
The world needs skilled practitioners who can inform planning and economic activities through the lens of sustainability and conservation. Examine the human impact on biodiversity, helping to develop practical, evidence-based approaches to conserving nature and wildlife. Through this specialization you will build knowledge in ecology, evolution, and population genetics, while taking advantage of opportunities for field placements at regional, provincial, and national agencies.
Note
- BIOL 4400Y: Internship in Conservation Biology. Students must apply in the academic year before enrolment in the course. Applications can be obtained online at trentu.ca/biology/forms.php. Enrolment is limited and competitive.
Courses
Graduating students who have fulfilled the requirements for an Honours degree in Biology may apply for a Specialization in Conservation Biology if they have successfully completed the following 6.0 credits:
- 2.0 BIOL credits consisting of BIOL-ERSC 2260H, 3380H, BIOL 3620H, and 4390H
- 1.0 BIOL credit consisting of BIOL 4400Y (must apply by April in year prior to enrolment)
- 3.0 credits from the following:
- BIOL 2600H
- BIOL 3050H
- BIOL 3090H
- BIOL 3140H
- BIOL 3170H
- BIOL 3190H
- BIOL 3340H
- BIOL-PSYC 3360H
- BIOL 3500H
- BIOL 3850H
- BIOL 3851H
- BIOL 3852H
- BIOL 4110H
- BIOL 4140H
- BIOL 4150H
- BIOL 4180H
- BIOL 4200H
- BIOL-ERSC 4240H
- BIOL-ERSC 4330H
- BIOL-FRSC 4510H
- BIOL 4520H
- BIOL 4610H
- ERSC-SAFS 2350H (3350H)
- ERSC 3160H
- ERSC 3200Y
- ERST-PHIL 3301H (3300Y)
- ERST-PHIL-SAFS 3302H (3300Y)
- ERSC 3510H
- ERSC 4520H
- ERSC-GEOG 4640H
- ERST-CAST-HIST 4670H
- ERSC/ERST 4801H (4800Y)
- ERSC/ERST 4802H (4800Y)
- ERST 4810H
Program Coordinator
P. Wilson, BSc, MSc, PhD (McMaster)
Resume Boosters:
- Gain hands-on experience working with agencies across the environmental sector
- Learn from professors who are experts in their field and practicing conservation biologists
- Benefit from access to state-of-the-art labs and facilities in Trent’s DNA, Life & Health Sciences Building

Career Paths:
Featured
Biologist
Biologists and related scientists conduct basic and applied research to extend knowledge of living organisms, to manage natural resources, and to develop new practices and products related to medicine and agriculture. They are employed in both laboratory and field settings by governments, environmental consulting companies, resource and utilities companies, chemical, pharmaceutical and biotechnical companies and health and educational institutions.
Career Opportunities
- Species-at-Risk Biologist
- Environmental Lawyer
- Research Scientist
- Ecologist
- Zoo Biologist
- Ecological Consultant
- Conservation Manager
- Veterinarian
Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program specific prerequisites
Program Requirements:
- A minimum 70% overall final average
- ENG 4U with a minimum of 60%
Discover Ontario's
#1 Undergrad University
Where award-winning architecture meets state-of-the-art research facilities and dynamic student spaces.
Visit TrentReady to Take the Next Step?
Tell us more about yourself and we’ll tell you all the reasons you belong at Trent.
Stay in Touch