Natural Resources Conservation AAS

Learn about the environment in a region known for its rich natural resources. Studying conservation at FLCC combines hands-on training at regional outdoor classrooms and wildlife centers with courses in biology and environmental science.

Associate Degree

62 Credit Hours

In-Person

Program Overview

The natural resources conservation program at FLCC integrates diverse field experiences with classroom study. It will offer you a broad awareness of environmental issues and, in addition, will provide you with an appreciation of our natural world. Courses in field botany, terrestrial and aquatic ecology, soils, waters and forests, fish and wildlife, and environmental science provide a theoretical basis for what is learned outside the classroom.

Furthermore, while enrolled in the program, you will be able to use industry-standard research technology such as electro-fishing equipment, water quality probes, GIS computer software, and wildlife-tracking radio-telemetry devices.

Career Outlook

Careers in natural resource conservation are as abundant and diverse as the environment itself. Finger Lakes Community College is one of the most successful colleges in the state of New York at placing graduates in highly competitive conservation positions. Graduates of our natural resources conservation program hold jobs in the field in more than 25 states and are employed by federal, state, local, and private agencies.

Curious about career pathways in this field? Check out Career Coach to learn more about industry job growth, education requirements, earning potential, and more.

Where Our Graduates Work

Graduates of the program hold positions with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, United States Fish and Wildlife Services, and the National Park Service, where they serve as:
- Environmental Conservation Officer
- Environmental Educator
- Fish and Wildlife Technician
- Land Manager
- Park Ranger
Others work for research facilities and private companies with careers such as:
- Environmental Conservation Technician
- Environmental Risk Manager
- Fisheries/Wildlife Biologist
- Soil and Water Technician
- Water Treatment Plant Manager
- Wildlife and Fish Technician
Smooth Transfer to a Four-Year College

If you're considering a bachelor’s degree after FLCC, our academic advisors will help you connect with four-year schools and explore transfer options. We'll assist you in selecting courses that efficiently meet the requirements for both FLCC and your future college.
- Joint Admissions Agreements: These allow first-year students to gain admission to both FLCC and participating four-year schools at the same time. Gain peace of mind knowing your next step is set while you complete your associate degree with us.
- Transfer Articulation Agreements: These partnerships ensure your credits from FLCC will transfer directly and seamlessly to a partner four-year school. You can enter a bachelor’s program with full junior standing, saving you time and money.
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Where Our Students Transfer

Many students in our Natural Resources Conservation program go on to complete a four-year degree at colleges such as:
- Colorado State University
- Cornell University
- Northland College in Minnesota
- Penn State University
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
- SUNY Colleges at Brockport, Cortland, and Cobleskill
- Unity College in Maine
- University of New Hampshire
- University of Rochester
Outdoor Wildlife Education

Our 250-acre main campus is home to second-growth woodlands, wetlands, nature trails, and fields in various states of natural succession. You'll spend time on the water, joining your classmates and FLCC faculty on our research vessels — including a state-of-the-art electrofishing boat.
Sample Courses

Visit our academic catalog for a complete listing of program requirements, including prerequisites, general education requirements, electives, and a sample schedule.

View Full Curriculum

Sample core courses you'll take in this program include:

Field Stations

FLCC has facilities designed for environmental and wildlife education, including an arboretum, a greenhouse, and two field stations.

The Muller Field Station, located on the southern end of Honeoye Lake, where you can participate in lab work, help in the fish hatchery, and engage in community outreach and local research projects.
East Hill Campus, located near the High Tor Wildlife Management area in Naples, where you can take part in camping, hiking, wildlife, and nature classes.

Muller Field Station

Low-Cost Tuition and Scholarship Opportunities

Earn a quality education at an affordable rate. With our low cost per credit and general scholarship opportunities, you can maximize your potential with minimal debt. Our financial aid counselors will guide you through the process and help you understand college costs.

$5,376

per year for in-state tuition ($224 per credit hour).
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76%

of students are eligible for financial aid or scholarships.
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$18M

in financial aid was disbursed to our students last year.
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Related Programs

Student studies a plant in the FLCC Greenhouse at the main campus in Canandaigua.

Natural Resources Conservation

Program Overview

Career Outlook

Where Our Graduates Work

Smooth Transfer to a Four-Year College

Where Our Students Transfer

Outdoor Wildlife Education

Sample Courses

Field Stations

Low-Cost Tuition and Scholarship Opportunities

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