The Natural Resources curriculum provides a strong basic education that draws from each of the traditional natural resources disciplines and allows students to concentrate studies in the specific sub disciplines of Aquatic Resources or Terrestrial Ecology, or to develop an individualized program of study in Integrated Natural Resources. The Aquatic Resources option provides a fundamental education in basic sciences with emphasis on water. With careful selection of option electives, the student can develop expertise in areas such as watershed management, lake studies, and water pollution. Students choose this option to prepare for careers in a wide variety of water resource activities including private practice and government. The Terrestrial Ecology option offers students a natural resources education with a focus on ecology.
Emphasis is placed on the biology and ecology of both plants and animals.
Students can concentrate their studies on areas such as ecosystem analysis, environmental quality, or evolutionary biology. This option is for students who have strong interests in natural resources and the environment, clear academic direction, and the motivation to develop a well-focused, personally meaningful course of study. The Recreation Management program offers students professional preparation in the planning and management of outdoor recreation and tourism resources in combination with a well-rounded liberal education. The program stresses the development of recreation and leisure opportunities integrated with the wise use and protection of natural resources. Emphasis is placed on maintaining the integrity of recreation and tourism resources, balancing public and private interests in land, and creating recreation opportunities as a component of planned land use.