North Dakota State University

The Master of Science (MS) program in Natural Resources Management (NRM) at North Dakota State University was initiated in 1974. Through the program, students gain breadth in relevant planning, analysis, communication, and management areas while developing depth in one of several disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach makes NRM unique among master's degree programs.  While traditional structuring of curricula is highly specialized and focuses on disciplinary compartmentalization, the NRM MS degree garners a broad, systems-based perspective. 

Natural Resources Management draws upon the courses and resources of four north Dakota State University colleges:

  Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources
  Science and Mathematics
  Engineering and Architecture
  Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

The goal of the NRM MS degree program is to produce graduates who:

  Have a strong background in research in conjunction with one or more available areas of expertise in the affiliated disciplines comprising the program. Graduates garner an extensive portfolio of coursework relating to areas that are highly relevant to understanding the complexity of ecosystem processes, ecosystem management, applied natural resources economics, social aspects, communication impacts, and future research on natural resources management.

  Are able to work on problems that require assimilation of data, methods, and strategies from many supporting disciplines. Problem recognition, definition, analysis, and resolution are the ultimate objectives.

  Are willing and able to engage in compromise solutions to interdisciplinary environmental problems; professionals who can engage with and be respected by decision-makers at all levels of private, public and civil society.

  Have a broad based and well rounded education that will enhance their employment opportunities in a marketplace where the need for the ecologically feasible, economically sound, and ethical resolution of natural resources management problems is steadily increasing.

Biotic Resources Science - deals with basic scientific principles that govern the interrelationship between biotic (e.g., plants, animals) and abiotic factors (e.g., climate, soils) in major ecosystems and the use of these principles for environmentally sound management of both natural and agro-ecosystems.

Environmental Communication - is designed for environmentally oriented students preparing for careers in communications fields such as journalism, public relations, broadcast media and the internet.

Natural Resources Economics - prepares students for management, administrative, regulatory, and policy positions that require a broad understanding of natural resources management and allocation.

Physical/Earth Resources Science - leads to an understanding of the physical and chemical aspects of ecosystems. Topics of study include hydrology, water management and quality, waste management, soil properties, energy resources and land-use management.

Pollution Control - focuses on the principles and practices of managing natural resources for pollution control. Topics include the technical aspects of pollution as they relate to water, air, soils, and the impact of environmental pollution on biotic and abiotic factors.

Social Sciences - concentrates on human factors (social, anthropological, political) in environmental management and environmental disaster management, while recognizing constraints and opportunities presented by physical and biological factors.

Careers in natural resources management vary widely and may include settings as diverse as urban landscapes and wilderness areas, university and corporate laboratories, and non-profit boardrooms.  An advanced degree in natural resources management is a well-recognized qualification for these and many other employment opportunities.