Earn Acceleration Points with Ducks Unlimited
As a CAPE Funding List Approved industry certification, the Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation & Management Certification earns students acceleration points and enhances their resume. In addition, educators and schools earn extra funding for every student who earns the certification.
Meeting the Industry Need
The certification assesses industry-valued and industry-recognized standards produced by Ducks Unlimited, the world's leader in wetlands and waterfowl conservation. Using a grassroots, volunteer-based organizational structure, Ducks Unlimited has built a successful partnership with private individuals, landowners, agencies, scientific communities and other entities to conserve, restore and manage North America's Wetlands.
The certification validates individuals have acquired a solid understanding of ecological principles. Those who earn the certification are more qualified and prepared to pursue a meaningful career in natural resources management. Additionally, the certification allows employers to identify and connect with more skilled candidates, filling gaps in the labor market and jumpstarting individuals’ careers.
As a result of the greater value society has begun to place on natural resources and the environment, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8% job growth in wildlife management from 2016-2026. Careers include wildlife habitat manager, wildlife population manager, wildlife research ecologist, wildlife law enforcement officer and others.
Related Occupations
- Natural Sciences Managers
- Conservation Scientists
- Foresters
- Fishing & Hunting Workers
- Forest & Conservation Technicians
Industry Standards
The certification exam consists of 100 questions and assesses knowledge and concepts from the following weighted industry standards:
Ecological Principles
- Ecological Systems
- Ecological Succession
- Monitoring & Sustaining Ecosystems
20%
Wildlife Conservation & Management
- North American Model of Wildlife Conservation
- Population Ecology
- Management Plans
30%
Species Identification
- Non-Game Animals
- Predator & Furbearers
- Game & Upland Birds
- Waterfowl
10%
Habitat Conservation & Management
- Types of Habitats
- History of Conservation
- Importance of Conservation
- Benefits, Threats, Legislation & Conservation & Management of the Following Habitats:
- Forests
- Grasslands
- Wetlands
40%
Featured Support Letters
View letters from businesses and organizations expressing their support of the certification.
About Ducks Unlimited
Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 14 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.
"It’s important that students understand not only the conservation and ecology of wildlife and wildlife habitat, but also their personal roles as future stewards."
Mark Horobetz
Manager of National R3 Programs
Ducks Unlimited
Empower Your Learners to Career Success