
Robert Wahlbrink found his calling as a game warden at the age of 14. After being assigned a class project to define his dream job, Robert discovered the role of a game warden and solidified his path. Now well into his career protecting Illinois’ natural resources, Robert chose the University of Florida’s online Master of Science in Wildlife Forensic Sciences and Conservation program to propel his professional ambitions even further.
“The program has provided me with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in the field of wildlife conservation and forensics,” Robert said.
Prior to securing his dream job as a game warden, he earned his B.S. in Biology from Lindenwood University (St. Charles, Mo) where he conducted research on amphibians and reptiles.
“Here in Illinois, our job changes with the seasons,” Robert said. “Although we have full statewide police authority, our primary focus is on protecting our natural resources. We uphold our mission through both education and enforcement. I’m doing what I love, and it doesn’t feel like work.”

“Every course I have taken and plan to take is directly related to both my career and personal interests,” Robert said.
Thanks to the flexibility of the online Wildlife Forensics program, Robert maintained full-time employment while pursuing his degree by taking one course per semester to manage the workload. Balancing work and school required him to make sacrifices by dedicating most of his free time to his coursework.
“One of the many unique things I’ve discovered in this program is the diversity amongst the students and faculty,” he said. “Many are well-accomplished working professionals who bring a plethora of experiences and knowledge with them.”
The unique learning and research opportunities offered by the online wildlife forensics program also empower students like Robert to increase their hands-on experience. Online students can also pursue independent research projects, a path Robert chose to follow.

“My advisor [program director Susan Underkoffler] was very welcoming to my research ideas,” he said. “She went out of her way to find experts to co-advise my project and walked me through the process of submitting a grant proposal to cover funding.” For his project, Robert plans to use artificial intelligence to create a tool to help wildlife officers quickly identify commercial baits while out in the field to help them combat poaching and illegal baiting practices.
Robert advises students interested in pursuing a UF master’s degree in wildlife forensics to dedicate sufficient time to their online studies because the program is worth the effort. “If you’re interested in a career in wildlife forensics or if you’re looking to bolster the one you already have, I strongly recommend this program,” he said.
The UF Wildlife Forensic Sciences and Conservation online program offers a Master of Science in Wildlife Forensic Sciences and Conservation, a Graduate Certificate in Wildlife Forensic Sciences and Conservation, and online continuing education courses. The program allows students to interact with the content in an asynchronous, online-delivery format on their schedules while taking coursework covering contemporary issues in domestic and international wildlife protection and conservation, current laws and regulations, and the handling and interpretation of evidence found in wildlife crime activities. The program is designed for students and working professionals in wildlife conservation, ecology, and animal protection. Explore programs and apply online.