Game Warden Educational Requirements
Game wardens or conservation officers are responsible for enforcing laws pertaining to animals in their state. These laws stop animals from being killed in an inhumane manner as well as prevent destruction to the animals' habitats. Not only is law enforcement training part of the process to serve in this position, but each state has various educational requirements for game wardens.
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Degree Level
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Each state sets its own regulations for game wardens; the degree requirements therefore vary from state to state. For example, Texas requires a bachelor's degree while Alabama only requires a high school diploma. Individuals interested in a game warden position can check with their state department of wildlife and parks.
Degree Subject
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States that require game wardens to have an associate's degree or bachelor's degree usually require the degree to be in a field related to the job duties of a game warden. Biology, wildlife management or natural resource conservation are examples of degree subjects accepted by most states with post-secondary education requirements for game wardens.
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Courses
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While education for game wardens should be centered in a field related to their future job duties, other classes can prove beneficial in this position. Game wardens interact with the public on a daily basis, so communication and public relation classes are a good choice for those earning an associate's or bachelor's degree. Supervision and leadership classes can benefit game wardens seeking to move into supervisory and management roles.
Length
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Individuals interested in game warden positions that only require an associate's degree can spend two years at a community college or technical school to obtain the education they need. Getting a bachelor's degree typically takes four years. However, students can get their degree in less time by taking heavy course loads and classes during the summer semester.
Law Enforcement Education
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Game wardens are a division of the law in each state, so they are required to complete law enforcement training and education. Most states have a training academy candidates must attend before they can pass a final exam and be employed in the field. For example, Kansas requires applicants for game warden positions to complete the basic law enforcement academy offered by the state's law enforcement training commission. Once they pass the academy and get certified as a law enforcement officer, they can gain permanent status as a game warden.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Zest-pk
