Environment and Natural Resources

Concurrent Major

Master of Science (M.S.)

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Shape the future of the planet

Channel your passion for the environment into meaningful change. The environment and natural resources graduate program is designed to equip you with the skills you need to address complex environmental challenges.

Students can pursue this interdisciplinary major alongside any UW graduate degree, so it’s an excellent way to deepen your understanding of key environmental issues. You can easily tailor your studies to fit your primary education path and professional goals. So whether you’re interested in conservation, resource management, policy or another related field, you’ll take relevant courses while gaining a broad view of environmental issues.

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This program is currently offered in
the following locations:

Laramie Campus

About the Graduate Program in Environment and Natural Resources

Learn to solve today’s most pressing environmental challenges by studying the environment at UW. Located in a resource-dense state, the University of Wyoming is here to help you pursue your dream career and make a positive impact on the environment.

 

The environment and natural resources graduate major is an exciting opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of environmental issues through a variety of disciplines, including ecology, economics, law and policy. Throughout the program, you'll collaborate on real-world challenges, utilize cutting-edge research facilities and work with experienced faculty.

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The environment and natural resources graduate major is an exciting opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of environmental issues through a variety of disciplines, including ecology, economics, law and policy. Throughout the program, you'll collaborate on real-world challenges, utilize cutting-edge research facilities and work with experienced faculty.


Once admitted to UW, students may apply for the ENR major by completing an additional online process, which includes submitting a one-page statement of purpose. Set up an appointment with Nicole Gautier, the advisor for the Haub School of ENR, to begin this process.

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Environment and Natural Resources Program Highlights

Internship Opportunities

All students are encouraged to complete internships with organizations like the Bureau of Land Management, Wyoming Conservation Corp, National Geographic and similar organizations. These job experiences help students build professional networks and relevant skills while determining what career path is right for them.

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The graduate program in environmental science is led by a group of respected faculty members who bring real-world experience and strong backgrounds in environmental research.

Our People

Our students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and geospatial and remote sensing technologies. This access to specialized tools enhances your ability to conduct innovative research and address pressing environmental challenges.

 

Our graduate students collaborate with faculty to conduct research projects that address key environmental issues. Research topics include wildlife habit restoration, conservation strategies and policy development, among others.

Research

The ENR major includes a unique field-based course in which students work in the field during winter to study wildlife, ecology and snowpack science. During this course, students track wildlife and monitor snowpack, so they are equipped to research and manage environments in winter conditions upon graduation.

 

 

What can you do with an environment and natural resources master's degree?

An environmental science education prepares you for a variety of fulfilling careers. Our graduates are equipped to pursue careers in conservation, ecology, environmental planning, policy, natural resource management and consulting.

You’ll be ready to make a difference in a range of roles, including:

  • Ecologist
  • Conservation Scientist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Resource manager
  • Environmental lobbyist or advocate
  • Policy Analyst
  • Corporate Sustainability Specialist
  • Naturalist

A variety of employers are looking for experts in environmental science and natural resources. They include:

  • Government agencies (including the Forest Service, BLM, USDA and more)
  • Environmental consulting firms
  • Nature conservancies
  • Nonprofits
  • Energy companies

Here are some key areas of expertise you can expect from the faculty in this program:

  • Ecology and conservation science
  • Environmental policy and law
  • Cultural and human dimensions of environmental issues
  • Environmental data and technology

This program places a high emphasis on field-based learning. Students often conduct research in Wyoming’s protected areas, national parks and public lands. This allows students to study key environmental topics like habitat restoration and wildlife management. 

 

Learn more about our field and global experiences!