Career Description
Are you concerned about biodiversity, environmental pollution, endangered species, and the future quality of human life? Do you want to learn skills needed for assessing, implementing and evaluating land and water practices as part of an integrated wildlife program? Graduates in Natural Resources use their knowledge and develop skills in forestry, fisheries, wildlife, and parks and recreation. They have learned the identification of organisms, methods for collecting data, and resource management principles.

Program Information
The Natural Resource Program prepares students for work in the Natural Resource field by providing a well-rounded background of course work and the opportunity to work with specialists in the field through internships. Credits can be transferred to a four-year college with which we have special transfer agreements, including the University of Minnesota at Crookston and the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point. Check with advisors and counselors about transferability when considering schools or colleges.

Special Program Requirements
This is generally an outdoor program with some physical activity. Walking, hiking, working in the forest and streams. Most of our equipment is light, but fire training certification to fight fires out west requires a 3 mile walk with a 45 pound pack in 45 minutes.

Accreditation
We are Part of the Minnesota State Colleges and University System and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Certification
The Natural Resources Program degree is an Associate in Applied Science in Natural Resources Management (AAS Degree).

Transfer Opportunities
University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point, WI. University of Minnesota at Crookston, MN. Employment Opportunities Employment opportunities include seasonal and part-time work while in school with various internships associated with them. Best opportunities for full-time work will include a Bachelor’s Degree from a four-year university in one of the Natural Resource areas or from a more holistic Natural Resource Management degree.

Career Titles
Forester, Forestry Technician, Wildlife Manager, Wildlife Technician, Fisheries Manager, Fisheries Technician, Parks Manager, Parks Technician, Naturalist, Hydrologist, Soils Scientist, Non-game Wildlife Personnel, Natural Resource Conservation Personnel, Biologist, Plant Taxonomist

Natural Resources, AAS - Program Planning Form (pdf)

Wildlife Tourism, Certificate - Program Planning Form (pdf)