Boise State University

What you'll study

This bachelor’s programme combines core natural science foundations with applied conservation and research skills. Typical topics include ecology and conservation biology, wildlife and fisheries management, forest and rangeland ecology, hydrology and watershed science, soils and plant ecology, and environmental policy and ethics.

The curriculum balances classroom, laboratory and field instruction. Core elements commonly include:

• Foundational sciences: general biology, chemistry, ecology and statistics.
• Quantitative and technical skills: sampling design, biostatistics, GIS and remote sensing, data management, and environmental modelling.
• Applied resource topics: wildlife and fisheries management, habitat restoration, silviculture, range management and watershed conservation.
• Research methods: experimental design, laboratory techniques, field methods, and scientific communication.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior research project or thesis, practicum or internship with government agencies, NGOs or industry partners.

Students usually complete general education requirements alongside major coursework and can choose electives or minors to specialise in areas such as GIS, environmental policy, hydrology or wildlife biology.

Entry requirements

Admission is to Boise State University and to the Natural Resources Conservation and Research major through the university’s undergraduate admission process. Competitive applicants typically present a solid secondary-school record with coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics (algebra and precalculus) and preferably environmental or earth sciences.

Specific materials commonly required include official transcripts and any institutional application documents. International applicants must provide equivalent academic records and evidence of English language proficiency according to university policy. Transfer students with relevant community college credits in science and math are welcome; course-by-course evaluation determines applicability to major requirements.

Because the programme emphasises field and laboratory work, successful applicants often demonstrate interest through extracurricular experience, volunteer work, seasonal employment in natural resource agencies, or a personal statement describing relevant experience and career goals.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of applied and research-oriented roles. Typical career paths include conservation scientist, resource or land manager, wildlife or fisheries biologist, restoration ecologist, environmental consultant, GIS or field data specialist, research technician, park or recreation manager, and policy or planning analyst.

The degree also prepares students for graduate study (master’s or PhD) in ecology, natural resources, hydrology, environmental science or related disciplines. Many graduates find employment with state and federal natural resource agencies, non-profit conservation organisations, consulting firms, tribal resource departments, watershed councils and academic or research institutions.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State’s location offers direct access to a diversity of ecosystems—rivers, mountain forests, rangelands and high desert—that are used extensively in teaching and research, providing abundant field training opportunities. The programme emphasises experiential learning: field courses, internships and faculty-supervised research help students develop practical skills employers seek.

Students benefit from applied research projects and collaborations with regional resource managers and agencies, modern laboratory and GIS facilities on campus, and opportunities to participate in multi-disciplinary teams. Small to medium class sizes in upper-level courses foster close mentoring with faculty and hands-on instruction in laboratory, field and analytical techniques.

Overall, the programme is designed for students who want rigorous scientific training combined with applied skills in conservation and resource research, positioning graduates to work immediately in the field or to pursue advanced study.