Major overview
Make global impact with a conservation and wildlife biology major
3 reasons to study conservation and wildlife biology at Murdoch University
- Learn on a living bush campus, with direct access to bushland reserves, native flora and fauna, and immersive outdoor environments.
- Gain professional experience in real industry roles by taking part in fieldwork, wildlife surveys and applied research projects.
- Study with practising conservation scientists who bring the latest wildlife biology, ecology and biodiversity research into the classroom.
What you’ll learn
- Apply biological science to protect wildlife, ecosystems and biodiversity across diverse Australian environments.
- Design and conduct field and laboratory research using industry-standard wildlife biology and ecological survey techniques.
- Interpret environmental data to inform conservation planning, management strategies and evidence-based decision making.
- Examine conservation challenges through environmental policy, sustainability and the human impacts on biodiversity.
- Communicate scientific findings clearly, supporting collaboration, reporting and real-world conservation outcomes.
Murdoch prepared me incredibly well, not just for the science, but for the reality of the work.
Holly Thompson, Environmental and Conservation Sciences
Read full student story
Your future career in conservation and wildlife biology
- Conservation officer
- Wildlife officer
- Ecological consultant
- Environmental officer
- Research scientist
- Wildlife forensic officer
- Nature-based tourism specialist
Start dates
| Starting period | Location | Face to Face | Online | Mixed mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.
Major Structure
Visit the Course Handbook - Get detailed information on units, prerequisites, and pathways.
To help plan the structure of your course, search for our suggested course plans.
| Unit code | Unit name | Credit points |
|---|
How to Apply
Majors are part of a degree and can't be applied on their own. Apply for a related degree first, then choose your major once enrolled.
Bachelor of Science (Environmental and Conservation Sciences)
Study environmental and conservation sciences at Murdoch University and gain real-world experience for a career protecting ecosystems and wildlife.
Looking for a career with purpose? This double degree gives you the legal, scientific, and practical skills to protect ecosystems, influence environmental decision‑making, and create meaningful change across communities, industries, and government.