Wildlife and Conservation Biology

Why study Wildlife and Conservation Biology?

Wildlife and conservation biology is the science of managing native plants and animals. It aims to limit the effects of environmental degradation, climate change and the loss of biodiversity. In this multidisciplinary program, you will study zoology, botany, genetics, microbiology, statistics, earth science, law and public policy. Students will also have access to some of the best teaching and research facilities in the world - the University Wildlife Sanctuary contains 30ha of bushland on the Melbourne campus, in which students gain first-hand experience in ecological techniques.

Courses

Local students

Wildlife and Conservation Biology courses
Offer yearCourse titleCampus(es)DurationSemester starts
2012 Bachelor of Science Bendigo
Melbourne
3 years full-time, or up to 6 years part-time Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Science continued…

Course description
This degree is a building block for a multitude of careers, because it gives you an internationally-recognised broad grounding in many areas of science  providing a foundation which can lead to specialised postgraduate studies or a range of careers. La Trobe offers a highly flexible degree structure, with 14 subject areas to choose from  as well as the opportunity to include subjects from other faculties as part of your degree. Because La Trobe has strong links to industry, students routinely enjoy guest lectures and work placement opportunities with leading government and research organisations  as well as volunteering opportunities which will help build your CV. Students can also access a wide range of support programs within the faculty, making transition to university much less challenging. La Trobe is one of the fastest-growing science research organisations in Australia, with work currently underway on AgriBio, the centre for AgriBioscience, a $288-million public private partnership between the Victorian government and La Trobe University, and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science at the Melbourne campus. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe science students. Please note that students who enrol in the first year of this degree at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus to complete the degree.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any) and either Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics. NSW HSC: Band 2 Mathematics and satisfy English requirements.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. They may also be asked to complete a Maths test. Applicants through UAC may need to complete the La Trobe Alternative Category form, available at: www.latrobe.edu.au/studadmin/aw/downloads/Altentry.pdf
Selection
ATARs (2012) Melbourne: 65.15 Bendigo: 63.40 Albury-Wodonga: 59.45 Guaranteed Entry - Year 12 applicants only. Applicants with an ATAR of 65 or more will be made a first round offer. Applicants whose ATAR is below 65 will be considered through normal selection processes. Non-Year 12 selection may involve: ENTER/ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Chemistry, Physics, or Specialist Mathematics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study to a maximum of 3 points. Consideration is also given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for fieldtrips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
Additional information
Students enrolled at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to either the Melbourne or Bendigo campus after successfully completing first year.
How to apply
VTAC
Professional recognition
Depending on their major studies, graduates may be eligible for membership of professional associations.
Full course details
Science Melbourne
Science Bendigo
Science Albury-Wodonga
2012 Bachelor of Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) Albury-Wodonga
Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) continued…

Course description
Conservation biology is becoming increasingly important, helping to limit the effects of environmental degradation, climate change and loss of biodiversity. This multidisciplinary course focuses on zoology, botany, genetics, microbiology, statistics, earth science, law and public policy. Students undertake fieldwork in zoology, botany and conservation genetics both on the Melbourne campus in the Universitys wildlife reserve and also in a range of habitats in remote locations. This hands-on core training in wildlife biology and ecology is combined with instruction in earth science, quantitative methods and environmental law, to equip students for careers in wildlife and land management, research, conservation biology, and park management. Please note students enrolling at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus after first year.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any).
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.
Selection
ATAR 80.05 (2012) Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR 80 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes. Non-Year 12 selection Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, or Physics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points. Performance in prerequisite studies is also considered.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
How to apply
Melbourne: VTAC Albury-Wodonga: VTAC/UAC (interstate applicants)
Full course details
Wildlife and Conservation BiologyMelbourne
Wildlife and Conservation BiologyAlbury-Wodonga
2013 Bachelor of Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) Albury-Wodonga
Melbourne
3 years full-time or up to 6 years part-time. Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)

Bachelor of Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) continued…

Course description
Conservation biology is becoming increasingly important, helping to limit the effects of environmental degradation, climate change and loss of biodiversity. This multidisciplinary course focuses on zoology, botany, genetics, microbiology, statistics, earth science, law and public policy. Students undertake fieldwork in zoology, botany and conservation genetics both on the campus in the universitys wildlife reserve and also in a range of habitats in remote locations. This hands-on core training in wildlife biology and ecology is combined with instruction in earth science, quantitative methods and environmental law, to equip students for careers in wildlife and land management, research, conservation biology, and park management. Please note students enrolling at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus after first year. Students also can access the Faculty's industry experience and student support programs.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: English (any).
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.
Selection
ATAR 80.05 (2012) Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR 80 or above receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs are considered through normal selection processes. Non-Year 12 selection Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Middle band
Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, or Physics facilitates an additional 1.5 aggregate points per study, to a maximum of 3 points. Performance in prerequisite studies is also considered.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
How to apply
Melbourne: VTAC Albury-Wodonga: VTAC/UAC (interstate applicants)
Full course details
Wildlife and Conservation BiologyMelbourne
Wildlife and Conservation BiologyAlbury-Wodonga

Want to know more?

Feel free to ask us a question about any course for local students.

Fees and scholarships

Undergraduate courses are Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for eligible Australian and New Zealand citizens. The domestic fee calculator can be used to calculate the cost of subjects this year.

There are also a wide range of scholarships available for local students. 

International students

Show mid year entryShow next year’s courses

Wildlife and Conservation Biology international courses
Offer yearCourse title (CRICOS)Campus(es)DurationSemester startsAnnual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2011 Bachelor of Biological Sciences (006171K) Albury-Wodonga
Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 and 2 (February and July) $22 040

Bachelor of Biological Sciences continued…

Year
2011
Course description
Biology is the study of all forms of life - animals, plants, fungi, bacteria and viruses - at the ecological (population), organism (individual), cellular and molecular levels. It is the foundation discipline of many areas of applied science, including medical science, agricultural science and horticulture, animal husbandry, ecology, conservation biology, and biotechnology. This course offers a solid foundation for many areas of applied biological science, including medical science, agricultural science and horticulture, animal husbandry, ecology, conservation biology, and biotechnology. It emphasises practical experience, and makes use of the La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary at the Melbourne campus. The Work Ready Biological Science program is designed to prepare you for the workforce by offering additional specific career development subjects, workshops, and work placements, facilitating a full portfolio of skills and experiences. Students can also access the Faculty's industry experience and student support programs. Work has commenced on the $288-million Centre for AgriBioscience and the $98-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe's science students.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies - 50 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2010 (indicative only) - 56.05 International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 6 Sri Lankan A Levels - CCD STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 2A 4B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 65 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.3 Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 60 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.5 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.0 GAOKAO - see: http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international/apply/how-to/academic-entry-requirements If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe Melbourne's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation, travel - may also apply.
Additional information
Semester 2 (July) entry is only available to students with Advanced Standing (credit) for previous studies. Students at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus after successful completion of their first year.
Course details
Biological Sciences Melbourne
2012 Bachelor of Science (022039C) Albury-Wodonga
Bendigo
Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 (February) $23 360

Bachelor of Science continued…

Year
2012
Course description
This degree is a building block for a multitude of careers, because it gives you an internationally-recognised broad grounding in many areas of science  providing a foundation which can lead to specialised postgraduate studies or a range of careers. La Trobe offers a highly flexible degree structure, with 14 subject areas to choose from  as well as the opportunity to include subjects from other faculties as part of your degree. Because La Trobe has strong links to industry, students routinely enjoy guest lectures and work placement opportunities with leading government and research organisations  as well as volunteering opportunities which will help build your CV. Students can also access a wide range of support programs within the faculty, making transition to university much less challenging. La Trobe is one of the fastest-growing science research organisations in Australia, with work currently underway on AgriBio, the centre for AgriBioscience, a $288-million public private partnership between the Victorian government and La Trobe University, and the $94-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science at the Melbourne campus. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe science students. Please note that students who enrol in the first year of this degree at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus to complete the degree.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 60 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 65.25; 60.05 Bendigo; 58.65 Albury-Wodonga. International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 6 HKDSE - 8,3 Sri Lankan A Levels - BCC STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 3A 3B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 70 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5 Sweden Slutbetyg - G All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 65 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.6 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.3 GAOKAO - see: the website If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
Mathematics determined to be equivalent to the Australian VCE Units 3 & 4 Mathematical Methods (either) or Specialist Mathematics.
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for fieldtrips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
Additional information
Students enrolled at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to either the Melbourne or Bendigo campus after successfully completing their first year. Please note academic records and testamurs of students who complete specialisations in environmental science, space science, or statistics are annotated accordingly (e.g. Bachelor of Science (Statistics).
Professional recognition
Membership of professional associations is available according to the major studies chosen.
Course details
Science Melbourne
Science Bendigo
Science Albury-Wodonga
2011 Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management and Ecology (044085D) Albury-Wodonga
3 years Semester 1 and 2 (February and July) $22 040

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management and Ecology continued…

Year
2011
Course description
This specialised program in environmental science and management offers industry-focused experience (with local scientists and employers) on the challenging problems facing freshwater ecosystem management. It includes field excursions to support theoretical learning and opportunities for work experience, including placements at the co-located Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre . Students also can access the Faculty's industry experience and student support programs. Work has commenced on the $288-million Centre for AgriBioscience and the $98-million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science. Once completed, these Centres will expand laboratory facilities as well as teaching and research opportunities for La Trobe's science students.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies - 55 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2010 (indicative only) - 52.75 International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 6 Sri Lankan A Levels - CCC STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 3A 3B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 65 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5 Sweden Slutbetyg - G All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 60 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.5 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.0 GAOKAO - see: http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international/apply/how-to/academic-entry-requirements If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe Melbourne's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information, visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain the personal property of students. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation, travel - may also apply.
Course details
Environmental Management and Ecology (Bachelor of Science)Albury-Wodonga
2012 Bachelor of Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) (074696F) Albury-Wodonga
Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 (February) $23 360

Bachelor of Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) continued…

Year
2012
Course description
Conservation biology is becoming increasingly important, helping to limit the effects of environmental degradation, climate change and loss of biodiversity. This multidisciplinary course focuses on zoology, botany, genetics, microbiology, statistics, earth science, law and public policy. Students undertake fieldwork in zoology, botany and conservation genetics both on the Melbourne campus in the Universitys wildlife reserve and also in a range of habitats in remote locations. This hands-on core training in wildlife biology and ecology is combined with instruction in earth science, quantitative methods and environmental law, to equip students for careers in wildlife and land management, research, conservation biology, and park management. Please note students enrolling at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus after first year.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (60%) UG) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 70 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 80.10 International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 6 HKDSE - 8,4 Sri Lankan A Levels - BCC STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 4A 2B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 73 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.7 Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 70 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.4 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.8 GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.3 GAOKAO - see: the website If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
VCE Units 3 and 4: English (any).
Additional costs
Depending on the subjects chosen, extra costs can include a laboratory coat - about A$30 - and a dissecting kit - about A$40. Students can purchase these items from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Additional costs for field trips - food, accommodation and travel - may also apply.
Additional information
Students at the Albury-Wodonga campus must transfer to the Melbourne campus after successful completion of the first year.
Course details
Wildlife and Conservation BiologyMelbourne
Wildlife and Conservation BiologyAlbury-Wodonga

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for work as conservation officers or researchers in government agencies, conservation organisations, specialist public research institutions and in consultancy firms conducting environmental impact assessments.

Wildlife and Conservation Biology placements

The industry cadetship program allows you to gain paid workplace experience between semesters, giving you the chance to build on your skills and build your career. See cadetship program.

Overseas study opportunities

Gain valuable overseas experience by studying with one of our global exchange partners. We have partnerships with over 100 universities in more than 30 countries in Asia, Europe, and North and South America. See education abroad.

Student and graduate profiles

Students from our Faculty talk about their experience at La Trobe.

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers. You can view all the staff from the Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering or focus on staff in Wildlife and Conservation Biology.

Wildlife and Conservation Biology events

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