Conservation Law Enforcement

Conservation Law Enforcement Online

If you are passionate about wildlife conservation and public safety, Husson University’s online Bachelor of Science in Conservation Law Enforcement provides the rigorous, applied training you need. Designed for both working professionals and outdoor enthusiasts looking to turn their interest into a career, this program offers the flexibility of online learning without sacrificing the hands-on experience required to be successful in this career field.

You will learn from faculty who aren’t just academics—they are experienced professionals with years of real-world service in conservation and law enforcement. Through case studies, investigations, and field-based assignments, you will master everything from wildlife trafficking to criminalistics. At Husson, we bridge the gap between classroom theory and professional practice, ensuring you graduate ready to hit the trail.

Conservation Law Enforcement Program Highlights 

• Accredited by NECHE
• Double major in Wildlife Biology and Conservation
• Free 24/7 tutoring and mental health support
• One-on-one advising and career services during your time at Husson and after!
• Pursue multiple badges and certificates along the way

Our courses are designed to be application-based, using scenarios that translate directly to your career.

CON 200: Wildlife Law Enforcement

This course analyzes the constitutional underpinnings of state and federal wildlife laws, including the Lacey Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Endangered Species Act. You will learn how to interpret and apply the substantive law and the broad influences on the field. It explores current impact wildlife issues have on the resource and law enforcement.

CON 346: North American Wildlife/Fisheries Identification

This introductory course emphasizes the identification of North American wildlife species through both direct observation and indirect evidence. It covers key aspects of biology, life history, and ecological interactions of selected species, alongside an examination of the social, political, and economic factors shaping wildlife conservation and management. You will analyze scientific data relevant to management decisions and develop communication skills focused on wildlife biology and conservation practices.

CON 426: Wildlife Trafficking

This course provides an overview of the world’s wildlife and conservation crime problem from both a global and United States perspective. Wildlife crime is a growing business for many organizations, including transnational organized crime groups and some terrorist organizations. Discussion in this course will progress from a broad overview of wildlife and conservation crime to a more localized perspective that encompasses the full spectrum of social, political, and economic issues affecting wildlife and biodiversity.

CON 428: Conservation Law Investigations

This course introduces you to important aspects of conservation law/wildlife crime scene processing, and case preparation. The range of subjects will include but not be limited to; gathering information and evidence in an outdoor crime scene, preparing evidence for analysis, field notes, forensics, preparation of crime scene diagrams, and investigative report writing. You will conduct a final wildlife crime investigation towards the end of the course.

CJ 105: Wildland Fire

This course provides you with a comprehensive introduction to the Incident Command System(ICS) and National Incident Management System (NIMS), covering essential topics such as suppression strategies, incident response, and a introductory understanding of fire behavior. Participants engage in components of the S-130/190 wildland firefighting training certification, including hands-on field exercises. The curriculum goes beyond the basics, exploring the latest advancements in fire management programs, cutting-edge science, technological innovations, and safety practices. Through an examination of public policy impacting fire management decisions and a review of past incidents, the course places a strong emphasis on safety and prevention. Designed to be responsive to emerging trends, this course ensures that you are thoroughly equipped to navigate the evolving challenges in wildland firefighting.