Natural Resources Planning and Decision Making
Students who study this major will learn the basics of natural resource science and the complexity of working with multiple stakeholders. Students will learn skills such as GIS and spatial analysis, planning, policy analysis, economics, multiple-objective decision making, and working with the public. They will critically engage in efforts to solve many of the complex resource management issues currently facing the United States and the world. Students will be strongly encouraged to participate in an approved internship the summer after their Junior year. Students apply biological, ecological, economic and social knowledge to address natural resource issues and policy. Graduates receive a Bachelor of Science Degree.
What do you do?
You conduct landscape level planning, including watershed planning, and decision making based upon economics, social aspects, spatial constructs and a strong background in natural resource science. You analyze data, develop forecasts and recommend policies, regulations and implementation procedures that will create sustainable land use patterns. Graduates will find many types of jobs in many different locations. Review the American Planning Association’s Considering a Career in Planning for more information about the opportunities. See Planning with Power for an example of natural resources focused planning.
- Students (coming soon)
- Alumni Perspectives
- Potential Employment/Employers
- Watershed coordinators
- Planner - Area planning commissions, state and federal agencies, consulting firms
- GIS specialists/analysts
- FNR Career Resources
- Professional Organizations
- Curriculum (pdf)
- Job Posting Links
If you want more information, visit our information request form. Another excellent way to learn more is to schedule a visit. Please note that you want to schedule a visit on the information request form or call the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at 765-494-3591.
