Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) Major in Conservation Biology

Conservation biologists work to prevent the extinction of the world's plant and animal species. According to Conservation International, the South West of Australia is one of the world's 36 'biodiversity hot spots' making WA an ideal living laboratory for your studies. Human activity and population growth are increasing the pressure on natural ecosystems and many biologists believe we are currently experiencing the sixth global mass extinction. Conservation biologists work to prevent the extinction of the world's plant and animal species. According to Conservation International, the South West of Australia is one of the world's 36 'biodiversity hot spots' making WA an ideal living laboratory for your studies. If you want to help mitigate this trend by learning how to manage and research threatened species and ecological communities, then Conversation Biology is the major for you. Field trips are a core part of the unit and there will be a cost of up to $1000 to cover the cost of food and accommodation for around 17 nights, to be paid by the student. Career Pathways Conservation Biology graduates are employed by government agencies (e.g. Department of Parks and Wildlife, CSIRO), botanic gardens and zoos, conservation-related industries (e.g. WWF, Greening Australia, WA Museum, Gondwana Link etc.), universities (teaching and research) and a variety of other organisations (e.g. mining industry, local government, private companies, community and natural resource management groups). Further Study As human pressures on our natural environment are at an all-time high, the need for experienced conservation biologists to attempt to reverse the declines in ecosystem functioning and health, and in species population sizes, is increasing. You will undertake rigorous scientific research related to the conservation of threatened flora, fauna or ecological communities. Research projects can vary from studying aspects of a rare species biology or ecology, to experiments investigating different threat mitigation strategies, or an economic analysis of the costs and benefits of different management techniques. You will develop your practical and theoretical skills in conservation-related research by conducting your own research project, and participating in units on conservation genetics, conservation planning, restoration ecology, and data analysis. Honours in Conservation Biology can lead to many careers including (restoration) ecologist, conservation biologist, environmental impact assessor, DEC flora or fauna officer, government policy writer and consultant, consultant for mining companies, science journalist, laboratory technician or field research officer.