Course overview
The Bachelor of Environmental Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) gets you out of the classroom and into nature. You will learn how to capture and handle native animals, measure the health of ecosystems, survey wildlife populations and develop conservation strategies. You will even have the opportunity to participate in our thriving Global Experience Program.
Deakin is a leader in the environmental science education sector, with this specialised course being the first of its kind to be offered in Victoria.
This course focuses on developing real-world solutions to global wildlife and conservation issues. You will gain theoretical and practical experience in wildlife ecology, biodiversity, fire ecology and more. Develop practical skills through regular fieldwork and a yearly remote field studies camp. You will gain valuable industry experience that prepares you for your future career by completing work placements and work-integrated learning programs.
Do you want to create a better world for future generations?
If you’re passionate about the environment and wildlife, this course allows you to focus on real-world problem-solving and applied solutions to wildlife and conservation issues. Throughout your studies, you'll acquire knowledge, skills and practical expertise in a range of areas, such as:
- biodiversity
- wildlife and landscape ecology
- landscape and vegetation management
- fire ecology
- conservation (such as planning and managing park/reserve networks, saving threatened species, and reducing threats)
- wildlife biology and behaviour
- wildlife monitoring and research.
Study alongside students and academics who share your love for wildlife and conservation, and work together on projects that reflect the real challenges facing the environment today. You will be part of a cohort that focuses on fieldwork and hands-on experience - from regular wildlife field trips and annual remote field studies camps, through to professional work placements within environmental agencies and opportunities to join overseas study experiences. Become even more globally prepared by participating in one of our many overseas conservation programs and even completing a minor in Global Engagement.
Professional work placements are an important feature of this course and you’re encouraged to volunteer in local, regional and international environmental programs, which you may even get credit for. This strong focus on professional skills development will prepare you for an exciting career in a diverse range of industries. An additional six to 12 months of paid, relevant industry experience may be available through the work-integrated learning program.
Read MoreKey dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 3 2024 are closed.
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2025 close 16 February 2025
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Environmental Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology)
- Year
2025 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400514171 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
9190310462 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS) - Deakin code
- S393
- CRICOS code?
- 055286D Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Environmental Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology), students must attain 24 credit points, which must include the following:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- 18 core units
- one of:
- one minor (4 credit points) and two open electives
- or 6 credit points of open elective units
- maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- minimum of 14 credit points over levels 2 and 3
- minimum of 6 credit points at level 3.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
18
Core units
6
Minor/Elective units
24
Total units
Core
Level 1 - Trimester 1
plus one open elective unit or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 1 - Trimester 2
plus one open elective unit or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 2 - Trimester 1
Level 2 - Trimester 2
plus one open elective unit or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 3 - Trimester 1
plus two open elective units or two minor units (two credit points)
Level 3 - Trimester 2
plus one open elective unit or one minor unit (one credit point)
# Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit)
Electives
Select from a range of open elective units offered across many courses. You may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).
It is important to note that some elective units may include compulsory placement, study tours, work-based training or collaborative research training arrangements.
Minor sequences
Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
Trimester 3 - November
- Start date: November
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Course expenses
In addition to student contribution fees, students may be required to meet their own expenses in connection with food and accommodation while on fieldwork.
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Students selecting SLE301 Professional Practice as part of their global engagement minor, please note that the placement component of this unit must be completed in an international setting.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Students commencing in Trimester 3 will be required to complete units in Trimester 3.
Work experience
The course includes a compulsory professional practice unit that requires you to undertake at least 80 hours of work experience in a course-related host organisation. Explore the SEBE WIL program.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
Current or recent secondary education
If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
Higher education
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
Vocational education
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
English language proficiency requirements
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 35 in any English, any Mathematics or any Science equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in any English, any Mathematics or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Admissions information
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2024 students (PDF, 793KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose, as each unit has its own cost. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year. You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options on our Current students fees website.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2025 are open. We've helped over 300,000 Deakin graduates across Australia and throughout the world apply with confidence. In Year 12? Follow these how to apply steps. Completed secondary education in or prior to 2021? Follow these how to apply steps.
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
You can apply for this course through the Indigenous Access Scheme, which recognises the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and considers the skills, experience and community work that prepares you for study. We look beyond your ATAR and academic results so we can reward your hard work with a place at university.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Environmental Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) with our pathways finder.
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
- Call us: 1800 693 888 Monday – Friday, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Monday - Friday
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
As a graduate of the Bachelor of Environmental Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology), you will be qualified for a career in wildlife conservation and management, or in environmental science more generally, and ready to take up challenging roles such as:
- wildlife officer
- conservation officer
- wildlife manager
- park ranger
- project officer
- environmental consultant
- research scientist
- wildlife biologist
- conservation biologist
- landscape ecologist.
Opportunities exist to work with wildlife, including their habitats and threats, and the policies and strategies that guide management. You could obtain these types of jobs in the private, government and not-for-profit sectors.
Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ) membership is open to environmental practitioners at all stages of their career – from those still completing their studies to established experts. EIANZ is a leading professional body in Australia and New Zealand supporting environmental practitioners and promoting independent and interdisciplinary discussion on environmental issues. Membership details are available on the EIANZ website.
Course learning outcomes
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Demonstrate a broad and coherent theoretical, applied and technical knowledge of wildlife and conservation biology, with particular knowledge of its relevance and application to biodiversity conservation. Use a broad set of field techniques and approaches to contribute to research and/or monitoring programs in field locations. |
| Communication | Clearly and coherently communicate information, conclusions and arguments regarding wildlife conservation and ecosystem management to a range of audiences for a range of purposes and using a variety of modes. |
| Digital literacy | Demonstrate and apply technologies to find, use, critically evaluate and, where appropriate, share scientifically valid information pertaining to wildlife and conservation biology. |
| Critical thinking | Identify and evaluate the importance of topical issues, problems and questions in wildlife and conservation biology. Evaluate, select and integrate established knowledge to formulate potential solutions to issues regarding biodiversity conservation. |
| Problem solving | Apply traditional and contemporary information technologies and methods to scope and solve real world (authentic) problems in discipline-specific and professional contexts. Develop appropriate hypotheses, collect relevant data and apply contemporary analytical tools and approaches, to solve environmental issues and interpret the findings. |
| Self-management | Take personal, professional and social responsibility for their own learning, including the capacity to engage in life-long learning by reflecting on learning, working responsibly and safely, understanding and demonstrating appropriate ethical conduct and behaviour. Demonstrated ability to document and show evidence of skills, attributes and experiences relevant to making the transition into the professional sphere. |
| Teamwork | Engage in, and contribute to, effective teams to deliver high quality, coherent outcomes. |
| Global citizenship | Recognise the social, cultural, ethical and economic drivers of environmental change, both locally and globally. Apply cultural awareness and professionalism in the workplace and/or academic settings. Integrate cultural and social considerations into possible wildlife conservation and management through appreciation of, and effective consultation with, key stakeholders. |
Footnotes
*ARWU Rankings 2022
^Year on year, our undergraduate students are the most-satisfied students of all Victorian universities. Australian Graduate Survey 2010–2015, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2016–2022 (GOS), Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT).