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GVSU Natural Resources Management student using instruments in hands-on class.

Natural Resources and Environmental Management, B.S.

The natural resources and environmental management program prepares students to care for the land- and water-based ecosystems of Michigan and beyond, as well as to serve the people whose well-being depends on these resources.

Visit the program website for more information.

Students are admitted directly into this program.
Available as a minor.

Program Overview

Students learn how to apply scientific knowledge to address environmental issues related to ecology, conservation, and sustainability. A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or minor in natural resources and environmental management offers experiences in a variety of topics related to conservation and management of the environment.

  • General natural resources and environmental management degree
  • Natural resources management minor

Why Study Natural Resources and Environmental Management at Grand Valley?

  • The program is the only one of its kind at a liberal arts college in Michigan.
  • Students gain practical work experience through connections with environmental and natural resources agencies, nonprofit organizations, and those in the industry.
  • Hands-on, experiential learning in indoor and outdoor field-based classes.
  • There are many opportunities to research projects with faculty on a wide range of topics including wildlife management, invasive species control, ecological restoration, renewable energy, and endangered species conservation.
  • With an advisor's guidance, students can develop customized programs based on their specific interests.

Career Insights

This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.

Location & Format

Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.

Format:
  • Face To Face

Coursework

Students study a variety of topics, including:

  • Fisheries, wildlife, and forest conservation
  • Geographic information systems
  • Natural resources policy
  • Restoration ecology
  • Soil science
  • Watershed management
  • Wildland fire management
  • Wildland recreation management

Combined Degree Programs

Many GVSU undergraduate programs can be combined with an existing master’s degree program to save on tuition and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, you can save $8,500 by pursuing a combined degree and take up to four fewer courses than if earning the degrees separately.

Talk with an advisor about how you can build your combined degree from existing programs to further personalize your education and create your own niche area of expertise.

REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE

Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.

Admission Requirements

Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.

For More Information

Biology Department

lkgear.com/biology
3300a Kindschi Hall of Science
(616) 331-2470

Admissions and Recruitment Office

lkgear.com/admissions

 

"This program provides an excellent job of developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are applicable across many fields. The real-world applications and technical development encourage a well-rounded and extremely adaptable mindset to address environmental challenges."

NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT STUDENT