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

Natural Resources Management, B.S.

The natural resources 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.


Available as a minor.

Program Overview

Students learn how to apply scientific knowledge to address environmental issues related to ecology, conservation, and sustainability. The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in natural resources management offers students a variety of academic options to pursue:

  • General natural resources management degree
  • Wildlife certification
  • Natural resources management minor

Why Study Natural Resources 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

This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.

You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.

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

gvsu.edu/biology
3300a Kindschi Hall of Science
(616) 331-2470

Admissions Office

gvsu.edu/admissions

 

“Studying this major has allowed me to view our natural resources with multiple lenses from economics, to ecology, to computer science and politics. As I look to graduate I feel well rounded and ready to pursue the challenges that face our society.”

AARON FERGUSON
NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT STUDENT