The Wildlife Society - Certification

Certification

For the qualified wildlife professional, The Wildlife Society offers a peer-review Certification Program. Certification constitutes official recognition that a wildlife biologist meets the Society’s rigorous standards for education, experience, and ethics. The primary objective of the program is to provide private clients, employers, and the public with access to qualified professionals and reliable advice in matters concerning wildlife resources.

Certification by The Wildlife Society is based on a person’s education and experience. Three categories are offered:

1. Certified Wildlife Biologist – The requirements for this certificate include:
   1. Completion of rigorous academic requirements at a college/university.
   2. Experience as a wildlife biologist for five years.
   3. Agreement to comply with The Wildlife Society’s Code of Ethics for Wildlife Professionals.

The applicant’s coursework and experience are thoroughly examined by the Society’s Certification Review Board, a group of long-standing and highly qualified members who represent a broad range of wildlife backgrounds. Once certified, the applicant must continue enhancing his or her knowledge of the most current wildlife management principles and techniques in order to recertify in five years.

1. Associate Wildlife Biologist – The requirements for this certificate include:
   1. Completion of rigorous academic requirements at a college/university.
   2. Agreement to comply with The Wildlife Society’s Code of Ethics for wildlife professionals.

The applicant’s coursework is thoroughly examined by the Society’s Certification Review Board. Once certified, the applicant has 10 years to complete five years of professional work experience as a wildlife biologist. At that point, the applicant may apply for certification as a Certified Wildlife Biologist.

1. Professional Development – The requirement for this certificate includes:
   1. Commitment to lifelong learning and enhanced professionalism.
   2. Agreement to comply with The Wildlife Society’s Code of Ethics for wildlife professionals.

Credit towards this certificate is earned by participation in activities such as attending symposia, short courses, distance learning courses, workshops, training sessions, technical sessions at professional meetings, and regular college courses provided by public or private institutions.