Forest and Natural Resource Management B.S.

The forest and natural resource management curriculum prepares students to plan, implement, and research the management, protection, and sustainable use of forest and related natural resources and environments, including vegetation, timber, water, wildlife, recreation, and aesthetic resources. The curriculum provides a unique integration of the physical, biological, and social sciences with managerial sciences and policy, field skill development, and technologies for measuring and monitoring natural resources for ecological, economic, and social benefits. Students are also trained in problem-solving approaches to address specific local, regional, and global issues. Students select one of three tracks: 1) forest ecosystem management and conservation, 2) park and protected area management, or 3) urban and community forestry. Minors are also available for each track.

Graduates find positions as foresters; forest, park, river or wilderness rangers; urban foresters; land and water managers; protected area managers; habitat managers; resource-based tourism providers; specialists in forest fire protection, ecology, ecosystem health, harvesting and silviculture; nursery managers; geographic information specialists; resource analysts/consultants; environment and natural resource law and policy analysts; land acquisition specialists; environmental and natural resource planners; outdoor recreation planners; heritage preservation specialists; conservationists; and educators and researchers. Principal employers are federal, state and local forestry, wildlife, parks, wilderness, conservation and related natural resource management agencies; forest products industry and related natural resource firms; landowner organizations; consulting firms; nongovernmental conservation organizations and international development agencies.

Additionally, the curriculum provides excellent preparation in the fundamental and applied sciences that is essential for graduate study and careers in research and teaching. Opportunities for experiential learning through internships and field courses, as well as international study abroad programs, are available.