Animal conservation biology has grown in recent years with the global loss of species diversity due to several factors, including habitat destruction, disease, and climate change. The Conservation Biology program will help address this – it is the only diploma program in Ontario that focuses solely on applied skills and research in animal biodiversity conservation.

As part of the program, students will:

• Develop a broad background in animal biodiversity conservation • Take part in field work and lab work specific to conserving animal populations • Carry out genetic and tissue sampling with a focus on eDNA • Develop skills and knowledge in identifying at-risk aquatic and terrestrial animals, and assess their risk factors • Perform field surveys, and complete an applied research project in semester 4