Shape the Future of Our Ecosystems and Cities
Fully accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF), our natural resources program blends science, economics, policy, technology and management techniques to prepare students to conserve ecosystems and manage natural systems in both rural and urban settings.
With 21 elective credits, you can tailor this degree to suit your interests and passions. Whether you want to explore a wide range of topics or dive deep into a specialized area, the choice is yours.
Top 5% in the U.S.
NC State ranks among the top 5% of colleges for natural resources and conservation programs.
(College Factual, 2025)
Fully Accredited
Accredited by the Society of American Foresters, a credential employers recognize and trust.
100% of students gain real-world experience
All students complete internships or fieldwork with partners like the U.S. Department of Agriculture, City of Raleigh and Triangle Land Conservancy.
Explore the Curriculum
Students who prefer a broad background find that our natural resources program gives them the choice to focus their study in a variety of areas. Choose the concentration that lets you specialize in the area that inspires you most. Popular minors include applied ecology, environmental education, geology and wildlife science.
“During my internship, I worked to identify, map and control non-native and invasive plant species in the gardens. It gave me hands-on experience in plant identification, exposure to a horticultural work environment, and helped prepare me for future jobs in natural resources.”
Kyla Marze ’23
Connect with us in-person or virtually through info sessions and 1:1 meetings.
Hands-on Experience that Leads to Jobs
This hands-on degree equips you with essential skills including communication, collaboration and problem-solving. In this prorgam you’ll tackle real-world challenges to gain a practical understanding of urbanization’s impact on natural resources. Some examples of hands-on learning include:
- Work with local agencies like the Triangle Land Conservancy and the City of Raleigh.
- Assist with habitat conservation, wildlife monitoring and environmental education programs.
- Conduct environmental site assessments to restore streams and wetlands to improve water quality.
“My internship with Terracon helped me see the importance of what I’ve learned in class — and it led to a job opportunity.”
Eli Teague ’25
Gain Professional Experience
With required internships and professional development courses, you’ll gain networking opportunities that prepare you for a successful career. Students gain internship experience with organizations such as:
- Terracon
- Enbridge
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
- North Carolina Estuarine Research Reserve
- Hanging Rock State Park
- Airfield Estate
- Kris Bass Engineering
What can I do with my degree?
Our students graduate prepared for a wide range of professions. In 2023, the median starting salary of graduates with a B.S. in natural resources was $57,000. Job opportunities in natural resources have been increasing, with 8% average projected growth over the next 10 years.
Environmental Impact Assessor
Play a critical role in shaping the future of environmental, social and economic impacts of projects to ensure development is sustainable and responsible. Recent employers include Duke Energy.
Natural Resources Administrator
Create and lead programs that protect and rejuvenate forests, grasslands and water resources. Recent employers include The Nature Conservancy.
Restoration Ecologist
Take charge of healing the planet by developing projects that restore and rejuvenate damaged ecosystems. Recent employers include the NC Division of Water Resources.
Natural Resources Educator
Educate and inspire communities on environmental issues and help others understand and protect our natural resources. Recent employers include the U.S. Forest Service.
Environmental Regulator or Enforcement Officer
Be on the front line of environmental protection by enforcing laws that keep our natural habitats, waterways and recreational areas safe and thriving. Recent employers include Tomer Engineering.
Environmental Program Manager
Lead critical environmental projects, from initial assessments to monitoring their progress, ensuring compliance and ecological health. Recent employers include the Institute for Forest Biotechnology.
Director of Social Change
Drive initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and protect our forest heritage. Recent employers include the American Forest Foundation.
Program Director
Spearhead programs that educate about the importance of clean water and community involvement in environmental decisions. Recent employers include the Miami Waterkeepers.
Regional Partnership for Planning and Sustainability Coordinator
Collaborate with various organizations to enhance and protect our natural and economic resources for a sustainable future. Recent employers include T&M Natural Resources Institute.
Commitment to Student Support and Professional Ethics
Our college is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students, offering resources through the Office of Culture and Community Excellence to enhance belonging and provide guidance throughout their academic journey. Both this office and the Office of Academic Affairs are available to assist students with concerns or grievances.
Additionally, we follow the SAF Code of Ethics, which serves to protect and benefit society by guiding members in their professional responsibilities. This code inspires and governs our students and professionals as they navigate their careers in forestry and natural resources.
Common Questions (FAQ)
What is natural resources?
Natural resources is a major that blends science, economics, policy, technology and management to prepare students to conserve ecosystems and green infrastructure. You’ll learn how to balance environmental protection with the needs of a growing population.
What types of classes will I take?
Coursework covers environmental law and policy, urban wildlife management, watershed hydrology, forest health and conservation planning. Students also build skills in communication, collaboration and problem-solving.
What concentrations can I choose?
Students choose from two concentrations: ecosystem assessment, which focuses on evaluating and caring for resources in rural and urban ecosystems, and policy and administration, which emphasizes economics, policy and program management.
How much flexibility does this program offer?
The degree includes 21 elective credits that allow you to customize your studies. You can explore a broad range of subjects or design a specialized area that aligns with your career goals.
What hands-on experiences are available?
Students work with local partners such as the Triangle Land Conservancy, the City of Raleigh and Wake County Open Space to study the impact of urbanization on natural resources. These partnerships provide real-world training in one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions.
Where can I intern?
Internship opportunities include assisting with turtle conservation, researching resilient crops with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and studying climate information through a National Science Foundation grant. Students also complete professional development courses to prepare for careers after graduation.
Do students earn certifications through this program?
Yes. Students may pursue certifications and specialized training through coursework and internships. These credentials enhance career readiness and professional credibility.
What careers can I pursue with this degree?
Graduates work as environmental impact assessors, restoration ecologists, natural resources administrators, educators, project managers, and enforcement officers. Other roles include program directors and sustainability coordinators. In 2023, graduates reported a median starting salary of $57,000. Job opportunities in natural resources are projected to grow by about 8% over the next decade.
Who hires natural resources graduates?
Employers include government agencies, nonprofit organizations, consulting firms and private companies. Recent employers include Duke Energy, The Nature Conservancy, the U.S. Forest Service and the N.C. Division of Water Resources.
Why choose NC State?
The program combines academic flexibility, strong community partnerships and professional preparation. It is fully accredited by the Society of American Foresters, and students and faculty follow the SAF Code of Ethics. The College of Natural Resources is also committed to student support, with resources such as the Office of Culture and Community Excellence available to foster belonging and guide students throughout their academic journey.
Related Degrees
Interested in different paths in environmental stewardship? Check out our Forest Management degree program, ranked among the top forestry programs in the U.S. and worldwide.
The Natural Resources Experience
