UMCES-Frostburg State University Masters Programs

Graduate students based at the Appalachian Laboratory may work toward a M.S. degree awarded by Frostburg State University in either Wildlife/Fisheries Biology or Applied Ecology and Conservation Biology, which includes tracks in Conservation Biology and Landscape and Watershed Ecology.

Many of the courses within these programs are taught by UMCES faculty and provided over the USM's Interactive Video Network (IVN), a tool that enables lectures and real-time discussions from multiple campuses to be transmitted simultaneously.

Working closely with their UMCES advisor in a research-intensive environment, students pursue thesis and dissertation research using the special facilities and access to field environments afforded by UMCES laboratories. 

Master of Science in Applied Ecology and Conservation Biology

The Master of Science in Applied Ecology and Conservation Biology Program is offered through the Biology Department at Frostburg State University. The program enables students to gain scientific training in addressing conservation issues, especially those pertaining to the persistence of native populations and communities in a changing environment, landscape fragmentation, conservation/development conflicts, watershed assessment, and integrated resource management. The program addresses both domestic and international issues, since the need of professionals is broad-based and global. Frostburg State University has inter-institutional agreements with universities and national agencies in African and Central American countries that facilitate the international dimensions of this program.

The Conservation Biology Track addresses both local and global problems associated with conflicts between human development and conservation of biodiversity. It is designed to prepare students for professions that require specialized training directed at maintaining biodiversity. The Landscape and Watershed Ecology Track addresses the effects of human activities and natural processes on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems at multiple scales. Students completing this track will be prepared for professional careers in resource and watershed management and restoration. Both tracks prepare students for work with environmental consulting firms, national and international conservation organizations, and state and federal agencies. Graduates of our program also are well prepared to pursue further graduate education.

Master of Science in Wildlife/Fisheries Biology

The Wildlife/Fisheries Biology Program is designed to prepare students for research and management positions within the public and private sectors. The program allows flexibility, yet offers courses necessary for certification as a biologist with professional organizations such as The Wildlife Society and the American Fisheries Society.

Upon completion of the Wildlife/Fisheries Biology Program, students will have achieved a general knowledge and competence in one or more of the following disciplines: aquaculture, aquatic ecology, terrestrial ecology, conservation biology, management techniques, population biology, evolutionary ecology, aquatic toxicology, habitat analysis, systematics, and systems modeling.

Visit the Frostburg State University Graduate Program webpage for more information.