Colorado State University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational natural science with applied conservation and research methods. Core topics typically include ecology, conservation biology, soil science, hydrology and ecosystem management. Students learn quantitative skills such as environmental statistics and the use of geospatial tools (GIS and remote sensing), alongside practical field techniques for sampling, monitoring and data collection.

The curriculum is often organised around:

• Foundations: introductory biology, chemistry for environmental science, ecology and earth systems.
• Quantitative and analytical skills: statistics for natural resources, research design, GIS, remote sensing and data management.
• Applied conservation: conservation biology, wildlife and fisheries conservation, watershed management, soil conservation and restoration ecology.
• Field methods and practicum: hands-on courses in field sampling, lab techniques, long-term monitoring and capstone field research projects.
• Policy and human dimensions: natural resource policy, environmental law basics, stakeholder engagement and resource economics.

Students typically complete a senior capstone or undergraduate research project, often in collaboration with faculty research groups or external agencies. There are opportunities for internships, seasonal fieldwork, and study at CSU’s mountain campus and affiliated research centres to gain real-world experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to the undergraduate programme generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of preparatory coursework. Applicants are expected to have a solid grounding in mathematics and laboratory science. Typical recommended preparation includes:

• High school coursework in biology and chemistry.
• Mathematics through at least algebra; courses in precalculus or calculus are advantageous.
• Strong communication skills demonstrated through English coursework.

Admission decisions consider academic record, strength of curriculum, personal statements and, where applicable, letters of recommendation. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university requirements. Transfer students should expect to provide college transcripts and course descriptions for evaluation of credit toward the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped for a range of roles in conservation, resource management, environmental consulting and research. Common career paths include:

• Conservation scientist or natural resource manager with government agencies (e.g., state conservation departments, federal land management agencies).
• Field technician or ecological monitor for non-profit organisations, consulting firms or research programmes.
• Wildlife, fisheries or habitat biologist involved in species management and restoration projects.
• GIS analyst or environmental data specialist supporting planning and assessment.
• Further study at graduate level in ecology, natural resources, environmental science, conservation biology or related disciplines.

The degree emphasises applied skills and research experience that help graduates move quickly into technician- and practitioner-level positions, seasonal field work, or to competitive graduate programmes.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University’s programmes in natural resources are housed within a college and research environment with a strong tradition of field-based learning and applied science. Students benefit from access to extensive outdoor laboratory settings, including nearby foothills and mountain environments, which support hands-on training in varied ecosystems.

Faculty at CSU are engaged in active research across topics such as ecosystem ecology, water resources, wildlife conservation and land management, offering opportunities for undergraduates to participate in supervised research. The university also maintains partnerships with federal and state agencies, conservation organisations and private industry, which help connect students to internships, seasonal positions and applied projects.

Additional strengths include well-developed GIS and lab facilities, dedicated career services for natural resources students, and the ability to pursue interdisciplinary electives across earth sciences, agricultural sciences and policy to tailor a programme to specific career goals.