Master of Science
If you care deeply about the natural world, you can make a positive contribution to habitat protection efforts by pursuing a career in environmental policy and research.
The multidisciplinary MS in Biodiversity, Conservation, and Policy program at the University at Albany explores the intersections of policy, politics, planning, and conservation biology. Through integrated coursework, you’ll deepen your understanding of the conservation decision-making process as both a scientist and policy analyst.
Many students in this program complete internships with state agencies to gain experience working on ecosystem and biodiversity preservation projects that inform their master’s thesis research.
Your research requirement can be met through independent study, contributions to faculty research, internship projects, or any combination of work in these categories.
Common research projects include field and lab studies of organisms of interest in conservation, data analysis for environmental conservation organizations, and assessment of New York State conservation policy and activities.
Sample internship placements:
See the Graduate Bulletin for details.
For more information contact Andrei Lapenas at 518-442-4191 or alapenas@albany.edu.
One of the following policy courses:
One of the following tool-based courses:
One biology elective and two additional courses in areas of interest. Graduate-level statistics is recommended.
Earning this degree prepares you to work in a variety of roles related to biological sciences, land use planning, invasive species management, wildlife and habitat preservation, environmental assessment, and natural resource protection policy development, analysis, and administration.
Sample job titles:
UAlbany biodiversity, conservation, and policy alumni go on to work in conservation science, land and water management, wildlife protection, and policy analysis for a wide range of employers such as:
Some master's graduates also go on to complete doctoral programs in related fields.
Departmental Assistantship Consideration
No Departmental Assistantship Consideration