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About This Degree
Program Number
7550
Estimated Program Length
2 Year
Location(s)
Vincennes Campus
A Two-Year Program Leading to the A.S. Degree
Available on the Vincennes campus
This program is designed to prepare students for a career in Conservation and Natural Resources Law Enforcement. In addition to core Conservation Law instruction, the curriculum offers a broad base of directly related subjects in the fields of conservation, law enforcement, and homeland security.
Vincennes University offers one of very few Conservation Law Enforcement degree programs in the country. Conservation Law Enforcement agencies around the United States routinely look to Vincennes University for recruiting potential. In addition to a large percentage of Indiana Conservation Officers, graduates have been hired as Conservation Officers or Game Wardens in 9 states. Many other graduates have chosen more traditional law enforcement positions and work for various state, local, and federal law enforcement positions around the United States.
The VU Advantage
Important factors contributing to the success of the program are the hands-on opportunities that are offered. Students receive practical instruction in boat operations, water survival skills, wildlife identification, management, and wildlife law enforcement investigations. Students also have several opportunities to interact with Conservation Officers. These opportunities include Indiana outdoor education courses, guest speakers, and volunteering at youth camps.
Career Outcomes
Employment Potential
Conservation Law graduates are not limited to seeking work from the DNR or even within Indiana. Because the program includes studies in criminal justice, criminal law, criminology, and criminalistics, successful completion of the program helps ensure that graduates are qualified candidates for position with various state, city, and county police agencies.
A number of graduates have achieved individual success:
- Conservation Officer of the Year Awards in two states
- Recipients of outstanding alumni awards
- Promotions to high-ranking administrative positions
- Completion of baccalaureate degrees
- Graduates have been employed in nine different states from Virginia to Alaska
NOTE: This Degree transfers directly into VU’s B.S. Degree in Homeland Security and Public Safety.