University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational natural science with applied management and policy. Typical topics include ecosystem ecology, wildlife and fisheries biology, hydrology and watershed management, soils and land use, restoration ecology, and environmental law and policy. Practical skills are emphasised through courses in geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, field methods, quantitative data analysis and laboratory techniques.

• Core science modules: ecology, conservation biology, watershed science, soil science and plant identification.
• Technical and analytical modules: GIS and remote sensing, statistics for natural resources, modelling and spatial analysis.
• Management and policy modules: natural resource policy and law, sustainable land use, environmental impact assessment and resource economics.
• Practical training: field courses, lab sessions, real‑world projects and a capstone or senior research project. Many students complete an internship with a state or federal agency, conservation organisation or private environmental firm.

Entry requirements

Admission is at bachelor level and requires a secondary school completion certificate or equivalent. Applicants should have a background in mathematics and at least one laboratory science such as biology or chemistry; coursework in environmental science, geography or computer studies is advantageous. The University considers academic preparation, letters of recommendation and any relevant practical experience. Transfer applicants with college credits in natural sciences or technical subjects are welcome.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in public, private and non‑profit sectors. Typical career paths include:

• natural resource manager or technician for state and federal agencies
• wildlife or fisheries biologist
• environmental consultant specialising in impact assessment, remediation or permitting
• GIS analyst or spatial data specialist
• park and protected area manager or interpretive officer
• roles in water resources management, restoration ecology and land‑use planning

Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study in ecology, environmental science, natural resource law or related disciplines.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers hands‑on learning with ready access to northern prairie, river and wetland ecosystems, and established partnerships with state agencies and regional conservation organisations. Small class sizes support close interaction with faculty whose research spans wildlife ecology, hydrology, restoration and applied GIS. Students benefit from field stations, laboratory facilities and opportunities for internships and collaborative research projects that build practical skills sought by employers in the region and beyond.