BOOTS-ON-THE-GROUND SCIENCE

The Natural Resources and Environmental Science (NRES) program prepares students for careers in a wide range of environmental-related fields, including policy, conservation and planning, ecological restoration, education, and many more.

From the classroom to the forest, you will develop a strong foundation in the natural and social sciences, necessary to solve today’s environmental challenges. Our customizable undergraduate degree program allows you to develop the analytical skills needed to work within your desired field of study. Along the way, you will receive one-on-one career and professional development mentoring.

Our focus on hands-on coursework and experiences provides students with direct exposure to ecosystem science, natural resource management and planning, internships, research opportunities, and interactions with industry professionals. Whether your career path is focused on environmental law and policy, education, restoration, or wildlife, the NRES program will prepare you for a successful career as an environmental professional.

Careers

The Natural Resources and Environmental Science degree will prepare you for environmental-focused careers in a variety of sectors, including private industry, academia, government, and nonprofit, such as:

  • Conservation specialist
  • Educator
  • Energy consultant
  • Environmental lawyer
  • Environmental scientist
  • Field ecologist
  • Non-profit manager
  • Sustainability manager
  • Urban planner
  • Wildlife technician

Accelerate Your Career Into Graduate School

For highly motivated students, the opportunity exists to integrate up to 12 credit hours of undergraduate and graduate coursework through the Accelerated Master’s Pathways or AMP program. Students will save time and money by receiving dual credit for select courses taken during their senior year of undergraduate studies. Those interested in pursuing this path to a graduate degree should consult with their academic advisor.

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THE NRES COMMUNITY

The interdisciplinary framework of the NRES program means that students have access to opportunities throughout the University of Kentucky, including paid internships and undergraduate research. The NRES community cultivates an inclusive climate for students to seek career advice and support, develop personally and professionally through student clubs and organizations, and receive top-notch training to prepare you for the workforce or graduate school.

Students bird watching
Student poster session

CUSTOMIZATION ABOUNDS

Students choose one Analytical Skill Development Area (ASDA) and one Environmental System Emphasis Area (ESEA) in which to specialize. With five ASDA and nine ESEA specialization options, your ability to customize your plan of study to meet your unique career interests is vast.

ASDA specialization options include economic and policy analysis, field and laboratory analysis of ecosystems, geospatial analysis, environmental education and communication, and individualized. ESEA specialization options include conservation biology, forestry, human dimensions and natural resource planning, soil science, water resources, wildlife ecology and management, global sustainable food systems, earth system sciences, and individualized.

Experiential Learning

Hands-on learning is at the heart of what we do in NRES. Our program provides real-world experience and technical training for a variety of environmental professions, both in and out of the classroom. From transformative coursework to study abroad opportunities to research and internship experiences, our students are supported through all stages of their educational journey.

NRE 201 Introduction to Natural Resources and Environmental Science

Students learn about real-world environmental issues through field trips and interactions with professionals.

NRE 320 Extended Field Experience in Natural Resources and Environmental Science

Students gain field experience at either the University of Kentucky’s Robinson Forest or abroad in Costa Rica.

NRE 395 / 399 Research / Experiential Education in Natural Resources and Environmental Science

Students independently complete research projects or pre-professional internship experiences.

NRE 471 Senior Problem in Natural Resources and Environmental Science

Students complete a semester-long project focused on a current environmental issue in Kentucky.

Living Learning Program

The Living Learning Program (LLP) supports student success by placing students with similar interests into smaller communities in particular residence halls.

Academic Enrichment

Our college believes in learning by doing. Our students are required to complete at least one type of experiential or hands-on learning opportunity, such as undergraduate research, an internship or an education abroad experience.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous alumni, donors and community partners, we have one of the largest scholarship programs at UK. Only one application is required for our college’s scholarships, but there are hundreds of potential awards.

Student Services

We’re here to help you grow personally, academically and professionally.

Ready to turn your passion into a career?

Explore endless opportunities at the University of Kentucky and take the first step toward your future.

Academic Advisor II
Andrew Bond

Director of Undergraduate Studies
Hannah Angel, PhD

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