Natural resources
Master of Science
Prepare to make an impact
The problems facing our natural world are growing increasingly complex. In this program, you will gain in-depth knowledge and research experience to contribute to the solutions.
Our graduate students work alongside internationally recognized faculty across eight programs on leading natural resources research. For example, you could explore landscapes after wildland fire; invasive plant and animal species; new and better building materials; alternative wood-based energy sources; better remote sensing and GIS tools; wild fish runs; wildlife habitats; domestic livestock and grasslands; human interactions with the environment; and more.
This program encompasses a wide range of natural resource disciplines and issues, including forest resources and conservation sciences, fire science, wildlife and fisheries resources, rangeland management and forest products.
Whether you choose the thesis or non-thesis option, you will lead independent research on a topic that interests you and supports your career goals.
Overview
Related Topics
Solve nature’s biggest challenges
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Want to make an impact in natural resources management
- Enjoy conducting research in nature
- Have a strong interest in science
- Can work independently and as part of a team
- Have strong communication and problem-solving skills
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,398 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Sustainability Specialists
$55,170 - Postsecondary Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers • Postsecondary Environmental Science Teachers
$48,689 - Regulatory Affairs Managers • Compliance Managers • Wind Energy Development Managers • Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
$48,420 - GIS Technicians
$61,877 - Environmental Compliance Inspectors
$53,187
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
For information on FAFSA deadlines, financial aid types and eligibility requirements, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead—estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
As an M.S natural resources graduate student, you could be involved in research projects such as:
- Investigating the restoration of landscapes after wildland fire
- Understanding and managing invasive plant and animal species
- Developing new and better building materials from woody biomass
- Exploring the potential of alternative wood fuel sources for energy production
- Researching the human dimensions in planning and managing protected areas and parks
- Assessing the relationship of habitat degradation on wildlife population sustainability
- Enhancing the capability of GPS and GIS tools for management of forests and other natural resources
- Probing the impacts of natural resource decisions on local and regional communities
- Examining the ecological interaction of domestic livestock with grassland and shrubland resources
- Studying the impacts of pathogens, lowered water quality and harvesting on wild fish runs in the Pacific Northwest
Internships
Internships are available to students at Taylor Wilderness Research Station, the Rangeland Center and through our industry partners.
Application information
Applicants for the M.S. in natural resources program must meet the following admission requirements:
- Education level: Bachelor's
- GPA: 3.0
- GRE: No
- TOEFL/IELTS: 79/6.5
- Number of references: 3
- Other requirements: No
Acceptance into this research-based programs is contingent upon faculty who agree to serve as primary advisor. You must identify and contact faculty who are researching in the narrow focus area you are interested in pursuing to determine their level of interest in becoming your advisor. Please only contact faculty with research in your primary interest.
Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.