Husson to launch conservation law degree as need grows for professionals
Courtesy / Husson University
Husson University, whose Bangor campus shown here from above, is launching a new comprehensive four-year degree program in conservation law to prepare students for careers as game wardens, park rangers, forest rangers and other specialized occupations..
Starting this August, Husson University students keen to pursue careers as park rangers and game wardens will be able to enroll in a new conservation law degree program at the Bangor school.
The program, whose classes are set to begin Aug. 29, comes a year after Husson launched a one-year certificate program in conservation law enforcement. Meanwhile, 30% of the country's game wardens plan to retire within the next few years, according to John Michaud, director of Husson's School of Legal Studies.
"There's going to be a huge demand for individuals who understand the importance of wildlife and outdoor environmental regulation," he said.
Husson said the certificate program had solid enrollments from both traditional students and working professionals, and that the new degree program will be one of a few of its kind in New England and the most comprehensive.
"While the certificate program provides individuals with a good introduction to the curriculum and the science behind conservation law enforcement, this degree will help people prepare for a range of careers related to conservation law," said Lori Perez, an assistant professor of legal studies at Husson and former wildlife officer with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
"To ensure our students are successful after graduation, this program will give students the opportunity to earn credit for field experience," in line with Husson's emphasis on experiential learning, she added.
In addition to traditional law enforcement topics, students enrolled in the program will learn about navigation, wildlife and marine law; environmental resource conservation; plant and animal ecology and wildlife biology. Perez said those are all topics that wouldn't be covered in typical law enforcement programs.
Students who earn a Bachelor of Science in conservation law can also apply to attend the Maine Criminal Justice Academy in Vassalbaro as a tuition student while attending Husson.
Husson noted that completing training at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy is beneficial for graduates interested in employment opportunities within the Maine State Warden Service or other law enforcement agencies.
"Employers are more likely to think graduates are serious about becoming a conservation law professional if they've earned a specific conservation law degree," said Marie Hansen, dean of Husson's College of Business and of the New England School of Communications. She was honored as a Mainebiz Woman to Watch in 2021.
"Taking the time necessary to become knowledgeable about the issues and challenges associated with protecting natural ecosystem isn't easy," she added. "Employers are looking to hire individuals who are willing to make a long-term commitment to this career field."
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