Cost & earnings at Indiana University Bloomington 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's in Natural Resources Conservation and Research at Indiana University Bloomington is an interdisciplinary programme that combines ecology, field methods, policy and data analysis to prepare students to conserve and manage terrestrial and aquatic resources. It suits students who want hands‑on field experience, applied research skills and a pathway into conservation science, resource management or further study.
This degree provides a mix of foundational biological and environmental science with applied training in resource assessment and conservation practice. Core topics typically include ecology and conservation biology, wildlife and fisheries management, soil science and hydrology, and environmental law and policy. Students learn quantitative methods such as statistics, ecological modelling and geographic information systems (GIS), alongside practical field and laboratory techniques including habitat surveys, population monitoring, water quality sampling and experimental design.
The programme is structured around lower‑division natural science requirements, a set of upper‑division core courses in conservation and research methods, and a range of electives and interdisciplinary options. Many students take classes offered by the Department of Biology, geological and environmental science units, and the university's environmental or public affairs programmes to build skills in remote sensing, landscape ecology, restoration ecology and environmental economics.
Hands‑on learning is emphasised: expect regular field trips, multi‑day sampling projects, lab practicals and opportunities to complete independent research, a capstone project or a senior thesis under faculty supervision. Internships with government agencies, non‑profit conservation organisations and private consultancies form a common component of the degree and can be taken for credit.
Admission is to Indiana University Bloomington and the major follows university admission. Typical entry expectations include a high school diploma or equivalent with a solid academic record, especially in laboratory sciences and mathematics. Recommended high school preparation includes biology, chemistry, algebra/trigonometry and coursework that demonstrates quantitative and written communication skills.
The university considers the whole applicant file, which may include grades/GPA, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Standardised test requirements vary with university policy and may be optional; check the university admissions pages for the current position. Transfer applicants should have completed college‑level introductory biology, chemistry and mathematics to be competitive for direct entry into upper‑division coursework.
Graduates go into a broad range of careers in conservation, resource management and environmental science. Typical job titles include conservation scientist, natural resource manager, wildlife or fisheries biologist, ecological technician, restoration ecologist, environmental consultant and GIS/data analyst. Graduates also work for state and federal natural resource agencies, conservation NGOs, environmental consulting firms, and in land management roles with private and public landowners.
The programme also prepares students for graduate study (master's or PhD) in ecology, conservation biology, environmental science or related disciplines, and for professional degrees in environmental policy or public affairs. Practical research and internship experience gained during the degree strengthens application prospects for both employment and postgraduate study.
Indiana University Bloomington offers an interdisciplinary environment with access to strong biology and environmental science teaching, dedicated research faculty, and campus facilities that support field and laboratory work. The campus location provides convenient access to a diversity of terrestrial and aquatic systems across Indiana for field study and internships.
Students benefit from collaboration opportunities across departments and centres, undergraduate research programmes, and career services that connect students with state agencies, regional conservation organisations and private sector employers. The combination of applied training, research mentorship and field experience makes the programme well suited to students aiming for practical conservation careers or advanced scientific study.
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