Montana State University

What you'll study

This degree combines core ecological and natural resource science with applied conservation practice and independent research. Typical course topics include ecology and conservation biology, wildlife and fisheries management, soil and water resource science, ecosystem restoration, land-use planning, environmental policy and human dimensions of conservation.

Students also gain strong quantitative and technical skills through courses in statistics, experimental design, geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing. Extensive fieldwork is embedded throughout the programme: you can expect multi-day field labs, semester-long field courses, and opportunities for supervised research projects using local and regional ecosystems.

The programme structure normally comprises lower-division foundational science and maths courses, upper-division specialised coursework, elective choices aligned with career interests, and a capstone experience such as an honours thesis, independent research project or a supervised internship with a public agency or conservation organisation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Schools typically look for strong achievement in key preparatory subjects such as biology, chemistry and mathematics. Background in earth science, ecology or natural history is advantageous.

Entry decisions consider a combination of academic record, personal statement and any relevant extracurricular experience (fieldwork, volunteer conservation work or related employment). Prospective students from international systems should review Montana State University's admissions guidance for documentation and English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers in natural resources and environmental science. Common roles include conservation scientist, wildlife or fisheries biologist, habitat restoration practitioner, natural resource manager, environmental consultant and GIS or field research technician.

Alumni also move into technical and policy roles with federal and state land management agencies, non-government conservation organisations, environmental consulting firms and renewable resource industries. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in ecology, natural resource management, fisheries and wildlife, conservation biology or environmental policy.

Why study at Montana State University

Montana State University offers a strong applied focus and extensive field-training opportunities because of its proximity to a wide range of ecosystems — mountains, rivers, rangelands and forests — that serve as living laboratories. Faculty are active researchers in ecology, fisheries and wildlife, restoration and landscape-scale conservation, giving students access to current research projects and laboratory facilities.

The university maintains collaborative relationships with state and federal land management agencies, tribal governments and conservation organisations, facilitating internships and employment pathways. On-campus resources such as GIS and remote sensing facilities, field equipment pools and extension services support practical learning and community engagement, making MSU a practical choice for students seeking hands-on preparation for careers in natural resource conservation and research.