Major: Natural Resources and Conservation
NOAA/Department of Commerce
What does wood for building homes have in common with water for drinking? They both are natural resources, and they both must be managed wisely to protect nature and to ensure the well being of future generations. Animals and plants are also natural resources that must be preserved to keep the planet healthy.
If you choose this major, you’ll learn what it takes to keep a natural area functioning. You’ll also explore smart ways to use nature for recreation and for producing goods. You'll use everything from biology to economics to confront some of the most world’s toughest problems.
Natural resources majors learn how to save natural areas and the plants and animals that live in them. They study how to use natural resources, such as trees, in ways that won’t harm the environment.
“We have lots of classes that meet outdoors to examine natural resources firsthand.”
Zeb, senior, natural resources management,
University of Delaware
Are You Ready To...?
- Learn the tools of the trade in marshes, on mountains, and everywhere in between
- Get hands-on experience by doing lab work, research, and internships
- Complete group research projects
- Write a senior thesis on, for example, the effects of off-road vehicles on plants and animals
It Helps to Be...
Passionate about the outdoors and comfortable working with people. You should be interested in ideas from a wide variety of subjects and able to make connections between them.
College Checklist
- Does the program focus on the biological sciences or deal more with social sciences issues?
- Is the program accredited by an organization such as the Society of American Foresters?
- Can you earn certification through the program if it's necessary for your field of interest? Is the program flexible? Can you take electives?
- Will you get hands-on experience through labs, fieldwork, and research activities?
- What subjects are professors researching?
- Will the department help you find an internship?
Did You Know?
As you advance in your career, you will probably work more indoors than out in the field.
Course Spotlight
Put on your hiking boots. The classroom for courses in such subjects as animal and plant identification and measuring and sampling techniques is often the great outdoors. You may study water and soil samples or observe a species of bird or fish on these outings. Get ready for some physical challenges, as you may have to climb trees to make measurements or carry a heavy backpack on a hike, rain or shine.
Explore this major in more depth on MyRoad™