About the Online MNRM Degree
The online Masters of Natural Resource Management is a course-based master’s degree that allows you to further your post-Bachelors education in disciplines related to natural resources. It is a 30-credit, interdisciplinary degree which focuses on many different areas, including range, entomology, soil science, and other natural resource topics. The program maximizes flexibility in the courses you take, experiences you have, and the timeline you pursue. The MNRM is offered fully online, fully in person, or any combination. This allows you to take control of what works best for you in your unique situation. The MNRM program has affordable tuition options. Most students will pay our low in-state tuition, even if they are not North Dakota residents. Those who wish to pursue a fully online program will also pay in state tuition no matter where they are. Our Tuition Description page has additional details.
"...I had come to NDSU with a deep interest in the environment, specifically for the tall grass prairie, but had not been able to pin point exactly what I wanted out of a career. Through the classroom, lab and summer field work opportunities with the NRM and Entomology departments I was able to develop a strong sense of self which has made me confident to explore many different avenues for a career." - Sarah Wilson, MNRM, Biological Technician, USFS Detroit Lakes, MN.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The program is interdisciplinary and open to a multitude of classes to remain flexible and cater to students’ individual needs. The program consists of 30 credits (24 didactic) to complete. The program does not require the completion of a thesis, research, practicum, or internship. In cooperation with the following North Dakota State University (NDSU) academic programs and departments, students select a curriculum and an adviser from one of these participating units:
- Agribusiness and Applied Economics
- Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
- Biological Sciences
- Civil Engineering, Construction and Environmental Engineering
- Communications
- Entomology
- Natural Resources Management
- Plant Sciences
- Range Sciences
- Earth and Climate Science
- Geosciences
- Soil Science
- Sociology/Anthropology
- Microbiology
Careers and Outlook
Natural resource management is a growing field. Graduates of this program will find themselves qualified for a variety of roles. The following list includes many examples of the types of roles/organizations graduates of this program may pursue:
- Audubon Society
- Botanist
- City Planner
- Department of Environmental Quality
- Department of Health
- Department of Natural Resources
- Ducks Unlimited
- Education Environmental/Ecological
- Consulting
- Extension Agent Forester Game Warden
- GIS Specialist
- Graduate Student
- Natural Areas Interpreter
- Natural Resources Conservation Service
- Natural Resources Management Specialist
- Parks Manager
- Pheasants Forever
- Pollution Control Agency
- Recreation Specialist
- Start Your Own Business
- The Nature Conservancy
- U.S. Bureau of Land Management
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- U.S. Forest Service
- U.S. Geological Survey
- Urban Ecosystem Planner
- Watershed Coordinator
Admission Requirements
To apply for this degree program, click the link below to start the application process. The application fee is $35.
The deadline to apply is one month before the beginning of the semester you choose to begin. Semester start dates can be found on NDSU One Stop's Dates and Dealines page.
The application process includes completing the following:
- Online application and fees
- Statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- Transcripts
More information about the MNRM application process can be found on our MNRM Application Details page.
Contact Information
Karensa Short, Masters of Natural Resource Management Program Coordinator
Email: karensa.short@ndsu.edu
Phone: 701-231-1864
Shawn DeKeyser, Program Lead
Email: edward.dekeyser@ndsu.edu
Phone: 701-231-7861