Sustainability and Natural Resources

Sustainability & Natural Resources

Students in the Sustainability & Natural Resources concentration explore how societies can meet today’s needs while protecting the natural systems that support future generations. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum, they examine the scientific principles underlying sustainability alongside the social, economic, political, and historical forces that shape how natural resources are managed, conserved, and used.

Students investigate topics such as climate change, biodiversity, environmental quality, resource management, conservation, and sustainable development while learning to analyze complex environmental challenges from multiple perspectives. Whether pursuing the BA or BS pathway, students develop the scientific knowledge, analytical skills, and interdisciplinary perspective needed to address real-world sustainability challenges.

Graduates of this concentration pursue diverse careers in environmental research, conservation, climate policy, sustainable business, consulting, technology, and international development. Some continue to graduate study in environmental science, public policy, or sustainability, while others apply their interdisciplinary training to leadership roles across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

  • Sustainable forestry
  • Fisheries management
  • Water resources
  • Energy resources
  • Wildlife and biodiversity conservation
  • Parks and protected areas management
  • Sustainable agriculture and food systems
  • Circular economy and waste management

- Bachelor of Science (BA): Emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and policy aspects of sustainabillity methods
- Bachelor of Arts (BS): Focuses more on scientific and quantitative analysis

  • Environmental resource management
  • Sustainable development consulting
  • Conservation biology and ecology
  • Renewable energy sector
  • Environmental policy and planning
  • Corporate sustainability
  • Natural resource agencies (e.g., USFS, BLM, NOAA)
  • Environmental non-profit organizations
  •  Sustainable tourism and recreation management
  • Green technology and innovation firms

Suggested Coursework

Students in the Sustainability & Natural Resources Concentration must complete six courses of their choosing related to sustainability & resources

See our list of suggested courses

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