Natural Resource and Environmental Conservation

Natural Resource and Environmental Conservation

Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource and Environmental Conservation

Concentrations Offered

Natural Resource Law and Administration, Natural Resource Technology, Resource Conservation Science

Top 5 Reasons to Study

01

Develop knowledge and skills needed to address natural resource-based issues through hands-on, field-based classes and research opportunities.

02

Learn from and get to know top tier professors in applied aspects of natural resource management.

03

Gain the confidence and ability to prepare and implement natural resource management plans.

04

Help individuals, states and the nation meet current and long-term goals for sustainable natural resource management.

05

Consider a wide range of potential futures, including graduate school, state and federal agencies, forestry industry, non-profit organizations, and many more.

Core
Skills

  • Develop hands-on technical skills in environmental measurement and sustainable management of forests and other natural ecosystems using advanced tools and field techniques.
  • Build strong problem-solving abilities by collecting and analyzing data, interpreting results, and making informed decisions about complex natural resource issues.
  • Gain an interdisciplinary perspective on natural resource challenges and opportunities by integrating scientific, social, and ethical considerations.
  • Connect with professionals and industry networks, including landowners and practicing natural resource managers, to support career development and real-world learning.
  • Learn to communicate effectively and create impact, sharing ideas and recommendations with diverse audiences and contributing positively at local, national, and global levels.

Sample
Jobs

  • Environmental Scientist
  • GIS Specialist
  • Resource Management Specialist (Natural Resource Specialist)
  • City Arborist / Urban Forestry Specialist
  • Research Biologist

Successful Career Outcomes

Strong Job Placement Our natural resource and environmental conservation graduates have a 100% placement rate.
Job Opportunities Overall employment of conservation scientists and foresters is projected to grow 3% from 2024 to 2034.
Law School Ready Graduates of the natural resource law and administration concentration have 100% placement in law school.

Top
Employment
Industries

  • Government and Public Administration
  • Environmental Consulting and Natural Resource Management
  • Agriculture and Land Stewardship
  • Tourism, Hospitality and Cultural Heritage
  • Forestry and Conservation

Brag
Points

  • Our curriculum is accredited by the Society of American Foresters, ensuring professionals are prepared to manage our natural resources for economic productivity and ecological resiliency.
  • Advance your education through the Thrive in Five accelerated M.S. program, where you can take undergraduate and master’s courses at the same time and earn both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

As a natural resource and environmental conservation major, you’ll learn by doing as you gain hands-on experience in ecology, environmental policy, geographic information systems, known as GIS, conservation planning, and natural resource management. You’ll also develop the skills to work with diverse stakeholders to create sustainable solutions that make a real impact. You can elevate your learning through career-focused internships, study abroad experiences, student organizations, major-related jobs, undergraduate research, and community service projects—building the practical experience, professional skills, and confidence to succeed in the field.

Spotlight

Mississippi State University’s natural resource and environmental conservation major prepares you to manage and conserve land, water, and wildlife resources through science-based, socially responsible approaches.

Natural Resource and Environmental Conservation

2025-2026 Major Map

Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource and Environmental Conservation

Get the Courses You Need

Hands-On Learning

Connect with Community

Explore the World

Launch Your Career

Alumni
Success

What made Mississippi State stand out was really all the hands-on learning opportunities. Spending a summer in D.C. as a Demmer Scholar showed me a whole new side of forestry and helped me realize the kind of impact I wanted to make. 

Katie Flowers Moss

Student
Testimonial

Growing up, I saw people around me not caring for the environment and even damaging our natural resources. I decided that the best thing I could do was educate myself in conservation so that I could educate others.

Olivia Burdine