Frequently Asked Questions
If you don’t see an answer to your question here or would like clarification, our Admissions Support Team is ready to help. Book an appointment, email, or call to connect with an Admissions Support Specialist.
-
Will my diploma or transcript indicate that I am an online student?
No, your transcripts and diploma will not say that the degree or courses were completed online. Your degree will be a Master of Science in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation with a concentration in Wildlife Forensic Sciences and Conservation from the University of Florida.
-
Are students only accepted in the Fall semester?
Students are accepted year-round for Spring, Summer and Fall semester, so you can apply to start in the semester that is most convenient for you.
-
How long does it take to complete my degree?
Students average 2–3 years to complete the master’s degree but have up to seven years to complete coursework. If the degree is not completed within seven years, the coursework taken prior will expire.
Students average one year to complete the graduate certificate program but have up to seven years to finish the five courses required for the certificate.
-
Do these courses require any travel to Florida? Do I need to log in to the course at any specific times?
Courses do not require any travel to Florida. The program can be completed fully online.
Courses are asynchronous, which means you do not need to watch lectures or log into classes at a specific time.
-
How do quizzes and exams work? Are the quizzes and exams proctored?
Your syllabus will indicate when each quiz or exam opens and when it is due. Quizzes and exams are all fully online and designed to provide ample time to complete them. Your professor will also share details about each quiz or exam, including how many attempts you have, time limitations, and whether you are permitted to use notes.
Your professor will decide whether a proctoring service is required for each quiz or test. If a proctor is used, it will be approved by UF and provided at no cost to you. The two proctoring tools commonly used are LockDown Browser and Honorlock. Your professor will give you clear instructions on how to download and use these tools.
-
Will I interact with my peers?
Absolutely! These courses are designed to help you connect with your classmates and build your network. Many classes feature discussion boards where you can share ideas and post about weekly topics. Group projects are also common, providing a chance to work closely with your peers on shared interests.
-
How do I gain real-world experience when the program is online?
Since you are not in a traditional classroom setting, our instructors utilize projects to create hands-on experiences. From setting up and processing a crime scene to finding and identifying tracks and signs close to home, your courses are designed for you to go outside and use the skills you are learning. Our instructors are dedicated to offering an immersive learning experience.
-
What are the admissions requirements?
This program requires students to have a bachelor’s degree in any subject from an accredited institution. Prior coursework in biology, health and/or animal sciences is recommended. No GRE score is required.
Master’s students must have an upper division GPA of 3.0 or higher; graduate certificate students need an upper division GPA of 2.0 or higher.
All students are required to submit a current resume and complete history of prior higher education institutions attended during the application process. Master’s students must also submit three recommendation letters and a statement of purpose. For full admissions requirements, visit our Admissions section.
-
What is the tuition for this program?
We strive to maintain affordable tuition for our students. Tuition and fees vary by which credential you are pursuing. Visit our Tuition and Financial Aid page for full details.
-
How does online learning work?
Admitted students can access online courses by logging into UF’s e-Learning website at any time.
Courses are divided into modules that include a combination of readings, recordings, webinars, group discussions, student research projects and other assignments. Modules are designed to build your knowledge while providing opportunities to apply the skills you are learning to real-world situations.
Our expert instructors are available via Canvas, UF’s online learning platform, or email to answer questions and support your learning process.
-
How much time should I expect to spend on a course each week?
Students report spending between 9-11 hours a week on course activities. This aligns with the general recommendation that students should generally plan for 2-3 hours of study/work outside of class for every 1 credit hour, meaning a 3-credit online course requires 9-12 hours of weekly effort including lecture, study, and assignment time.
-
I am not a University of Florida student. Will the credits be transferable to my home institution and count toward my degree there?
Each university has their own policies regarding credit transfer or dual enrollment. Please check with your home institution to complete any paperwork that may be required to transfer the credits and ensure that they can be applied toward your degree. (Note: UF requires students to complete paperwork before they register at another university and this may be the same for your home institution.)
-
What accreditations does this program have?
SACSCOC
The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of the University of Florida.
The University of Florida’s accreditation is reaffirmed by SACSCOC every 10 years. SACSCOC is the regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern states.
All programs and courses are approved by the University of Florida Graduate School and must meet the same academic standards and rigor, irrespective of whether it is taught online or on campus.
The university’s reaffirmation process includes reports demonstrating compliance with SACSCOC principles and standards and a Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). In addition to the reports, the reaffirmation process includes extensive evaluation of compliance by an off-site peer review, an on-site peer review, and the final review by the SACSCOC Board of Trustees.
-
Can I participate in UF student activities or use UF academic resources?
Yes! Participating in student activities and engaging with UF resources will enhance your student experience and build your network. From internship/job search resources to tutoring resources, UF provides online students with a variety of tools to support your academic journey. Visit the Student Resources page for more information.