Natural Resources and Environmental Management
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • 120 Credits
Natural resource and environmental managers study ecosystems, environmental policy, and resource management techniques to balance human needs with preservation.
Overview
Students are prepared to care for the land- and water-based ecosystems of Michigan and beyond, serve the people whose well-being depends on these resources, and apply scientific knowledge to address environmental issues related to ecology, conservation, and sustainability.
Your coursework will cover fisheries, wildlife and forest conservation, geographic information systems, and natural resources policy. You will explore restoration ecology, soil science, watershed management, wildland fire, and recreation management.
The program, unique among liberal arts colleges in Michigan, offers you unparalleled practical work experience through connections with environmental and natural resources agencies, nonprofit organizations, and industry professionals. It emphasizes experiential learning in indoor and outdoor field-based classes. You will have numerous opportunities to engage in research projects with faculty on diverse topics and develop customized programs tailored to your interests with an advisor.
Biology Department
gvsu.edu/biology
3300a
Kindschi Hall of Science
(616) 331-2470
Admissions and Recruitment Office
Career Opportunities
Develop, introduce, or enact laws and statutes at the local, tribal, state, or federal level. Includes only workers in elected positions.
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 26,581.70 | 10% |
| $ 39,580.60 | 25% |
| $ 72,059.85 | 50% |
| $ 97,622.62 | 75% |
| $136,470.13 | 90% |
Collaborate with field and biology staff to oversee the implementation of restoration projects and to develop new products. Process and synthesize complex scientific data into practical strategies for restoration, monitoring or management.
Top skills- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Active Listening
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 49,942.27 | 10% |
| $ 60,906.49 | 25% |
| $ 76,657.20 | 50% |
| $ 96,563.00 | 75% |
| $108,798.69 | 90% |
Manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment. May conduct soil surveys and develop plans to eliminate soil erosion or to protect rangelands. May instruct farmers, agricultural production managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for stock watering.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Complex Problem Solving
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 33,420.63 | 10% |
| $ 43,510.26 | 25% |
| $ 61,002.21 | 50% |
| $ 82,578.82 | 75% |
| $116,510.00 | 90% |
Manage public and private forested lands for economic, recreational, and conservation purposes. May inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber, appraise the timber's worth, negotiate the purchase, and draw up contracts for procurement. May determine how to conserve wildlife habitats, creek beds, water quality, and soil stability, and how best to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for planting and growing new trees, monitor trees for healthy growth, and determine optimal harvesting schedules.
Top skills- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 51,639.89 | 10% |
| $ 59,325.31 | 25% |
| $ 74,563.48 | 50% |
| $ 86,308.06 | 75% |
| $102,369.99 | 90% |
Research or study range land management practices to provide sustained production of forage, livestock, and wildlife.
Top skills- Active Listening
- Reading Comprehension
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 33,420.63 | 10% |
| $ 43,510.26 | 25% |
| $ 61,002.21 | 50% |
| $ 82,578.82 | 75% |
| $116,510.00 | 90% |
Patrol assigned area to prevent fish and game law violations. Investigate reports of damage to crops or property by wildlife. Compile biological data.
Top skills- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Judgment and Decision Making
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 54,426.63 | 10% |
| $ 72,389.02 | 25% |
| $ 80,586.76 | 50% |
| $ 84,130.11 | 75% |
| $ 90,264.68 | 90% |
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Scholarships
Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based
scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are
available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.
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Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Attending student life events, joining a student organization, or participating in campus recreation opportunities are all fantastic ways to maximize your college years:
Career Advising
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