Cost & earnings at University of Mount Union What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Natural Resources and Conservation graduates earn a median $31,364 Across 826 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Conservation and Research at the University of Mount Union prepares students to study, manage and conserve terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems using scientific methods. It suits students who want a combination of classroom-based ecological science, hands-on fieldwork and research experience aimed at careers in conservation, resource management or further study.
This programme provides a foundation in ecological principles, natural resource management and applied research methods. Core topics typically include ecology, wildlife biology, conservation biology, soil and watershed science, forestry principles, and principles of ecosystem management. Students also study supporting sciences and skills such as environmental chemistry, statistics, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and research design.
The degree emphasises experiential learning: laboratory courses, multi-day field trips, independent research with faculty supervision, and internship placements with government agencies, non-profits or private land managers. Students typically complete a senior capstone or research thesis that synthesises field and analytical skills.
Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of strong performance in science and mathematics. Recommended subjects include biology, chemistry, mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus), and geography or environmental science where available. Typical application materials include transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in natural resources, and at least one academic or extracurricular reference. Prior outdoor experience, volunteer work, or participation in relevant clubs can strengthen an application.
Prospective transfer students should provide college transcripts and a summary of completed coursework; credits in biology, chemistry or related subjects may be considered for transfer. International applicants must meet the university's standard admissions and English language proficiency requirements.
Graduates enter a range of roles in conservation, resource management and applied research. Common career destinations include positions as natural resource technicians, wildlife or fisheries technicians, conservation planners, land stewardship coordinators, environmental consultants, GIS technicians, restoration ecologists, and park or refuge managers. Many alumni also pursue graduate study in ecology, forestry, environmental science, natural resource policy or related fields.
The programme's emphasis on practical skills, data analysis and applied research helps graduates meet employer needs in local and regional conservation organisations, municipal and state resource agencies, federal land management bodies, environmental consultancies and non-governmental organisations.
The University of Mount Union offers small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which supports hands-on learning and supervised undergraduate research. Students benefit from direct field-based instruction and opportunities to complete internships and applied projects with regional agencies and conservation partners.
The campus location provides ready access to a variety of ecosystems for field study, enabling practical training in stream assessment, forest inventory, wildlife surveys and restoration projects. Academic support services, career counselling and alumni networks help students transition from the classroom to professional roles or further study in natural resources and environmental science.
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