Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources: Ecology, Management and Restoration of Rangelands Emphasis

University of Arizona

Sustainably repairing and responsibly managing ecological systems so they can continue to supply us with resources is a tall order. Rise to the challenge with this degree. The Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources with an emphasis in Ecology, Management and Restoration of Rangelands looks at the diverse rangelands environments, including deserts, grasslands, shrublands, woodlands and meadows, with an eye on management and restoration. Students build a strong foundation in the biological, physical, ecological and botanical sciences. The program's field courses, internships, lab work and opportunities to join research and restoration projects enrich traditional classroom learning. Students graduate equipped for work conducting inventories of soils, plants and animals; developing resource management strategies with agencies or private firms; helping restore degraded lands; managing a preserve or ranch; working with endangered species; and developing plans to best manage rangeland resources.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Demonstrate basic knowledge ecological principles; Acquire basic knowledge of ecological principles (e.g., energy flow, material cycling, competition, predation, mutualism), identify current ecological challenges facing natural resource managers, and use ecological principles to develop potential integrated solutions to problems in natural resource management. (RNR 316/202)

Natural resource management; Describe how social, political, and economic forces affect management of natural resources; and explain why there generally are trade-offs between various objectives in natural resources management.

Land management agency roles; Identify the major land management agencies responsible for stewardship of natural resources, the key historical conditions that lead to the creation of these agencies, and the primary mandates of each of these agencies.

Master basic statistical analyses; Conduct, interpret, and present basic statistical analyses of field and laboratory data, develop a research sampling design, and demonstrate the ability to design and conduct monitoring projects in the field.

Effectively communicate; Write professional reports in the style appropriate for the field of specialization, and demonstrate clear communication of scientific concepts and analytical arguments based on synthesis of published information and use of critical thinking.

Demonstrate ethical behavior; Identify behaviors of ethical professionals, and describe links between these behaviors and professional accomplishments.

Taxonomic identification; Demonstrate the ability to use taxonomic keys to identify a variety of plant and animal taxa.

Career development; Identify career paths and responsibilities within professions related to natural resources, and demonstrate awareness and appreciation for the importance of collaboration for stewardship of natural resources, including among agencies and between scientists and managers.

CAREER FIELDS

Conservation

Ecotourism

Geospatial mapping

Rangeland restoration

Sustainability