Gaines,

I’d start by defining your objective.  If it is to gain employment in the wildlife field, then your objective needs to be further defined.  Do you wish to work specifically with deer or in the wildlife field in general?  If you wish to work with deer, then what type of habitat do you wish to work in?  A degree from south Texas may prepare you very well for working in that habitat type, but some of what you studied may not apply to work in Alabama.  The deer management principles will be the same, but the plants, soils, etc., will be substantially different.  The wildlife field is very competitive, so you need to refine your objectives and take a targeted approach.  I schooled in Missouri, Georgia, and Clemson and worked for the Bureau of Land Management in Nevada.  The diversity of my education was as much of a benefit as any course.

If you wish to learn more about white-tailed deer and habitat management, but are not seeking employment, then the QDMA courses are outstanding!  However, I doubt they are enough to qualify you for a job with most state agencies.  They are perfect for property managers in the private industry.

I’m not familiar with any online programs that truly prepare you to be wildlife biologist.  I believe the field portion of education is just as important as the bookwork.

Finally, the major professor/advisor you pick is just as important as the school.  Drs. Lynn Robins, David Guynn, and Larry Marchinton were very influential on my career.  All of them gave me a lot of room to grow and they strongly encouraged field experience.  I’m indebted to all of them.

Growing Deer together,

Grant