Cascadia College

What you'll study

A bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Conservation and Research typically combines ecology, applied science and social dimensions of resource management to prepare students to manage, study and conserve landscapes and ecosystems. Core themes include field ecology, conservation biology, ecosystem dynamics, natural resource policy and management, and quantitative research methods. Curriculum is frequently arranged to progress from foundational science to applied and research-based work, with substantial hands-on and field components.

• Foundational science: ecology, plant and animal biology, soil science, hydrology and environmental chemistry.
• Conservation and management: conservation biology, wildlife management, habitat restoration, forest and watershed management, invasive species management.
• Research and quantitative skills: experimental design, biostatistics, data analysis, remote sensing and GIS, field techniques and instrumentation.
• Policy and human dimensions: natural resource policy, environmental law, community-based resource management, stakeholder engagement and ethics.
• Applied experience: extended field courses, capstone research project or thesis, internships with government agencies, NGOs or industry partners.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements vary by awarding institution. Typical expectations for entry to a bachelor’s programme include completion of secondary education with strong grades in science and mathematics subjects. Many programmes also accept students who transfer from a community college after completing an associate degree or equivalent college-level coursework.

• For direct entry to a bachelor’s: secondary school certificate (or equivalent) with good marks in biology, chemistry, mathematics or environmental science; some programmes may ask for a personal statement and references.
• For transfer students from Cascadia College: completion of an associate degree or a recommended package of transferable courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics/statistics and introductory environmental science, plus a competitive cumulative GPA; students should consult transfer articulation agreements for specific partner universities.
• Additional considerations: practical experience (volunteer or paid) in fieldwork, a brief résumé, and evidence of quantitative and communication skills can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in Natural Resources Conservation and Research move into a range of roles across public agencies, non‑profits, consulting firms and industry, often combining field practice with research and policy work. Many also progress to postgraduate study (MSc, PhD) to specialise further or pursue research careers.

• Conservation scientist or ecologist working for government natural resource departments or conservation organisations.
• Field technician or restoration practitioner carrying out habitat surveys, monitoring and restoration projects.
• Environmental consultant advising on impact assessments, mitigation and compliance.
• GIS/remote sensing specialist supporting resource mapping, modelling and monitoring.
• Park ranger, wildlife manager or land stewardship officer working in protected areas and land management agencies.
• Research technician or postgraduate researcher in academic or applied research settings.

Why study at Cascadia College

Although Cascadia College does not award a bachelor’s in this field, it is a strong place to start your pathway to a bachelor’s degree in natural resources. Cascadia offers small classes, personalised advising and a sustainability-focused learning environment that helps students build the core scientific and quantitative skills required by four-year programmes. The college’s campus sits in a region with close access to a wide range of ecosystems—coastal, forested and urban—making it easy to gain practical field experience.

• Strong transfer support: Cascadia provides academic advising and transfer articulation guidance to help students move into regional bachelor programmes, including partner institutions on the same campus.
• Hands-on learning: students can gain practical field and laboratory experience through coursework, local partnerships and community internships.
• Focused class sizes: smaller tutorials and labs mean more contact with instructors and mentorship opportunities.
• Regional relevance: proximity to diverse natural environments supports applied learning and local research opportunities.