at one of the highest-ranked natural resource programs in the country. The University of Idaho’s College of Natural Resources has been training leaders and producing cutting-edge research for more than 100 years.
CHOOSE your individual path
We offer thirteen undergraduate degrees with a variety of specialized degree tracks.
WORK directly with internationally renowned faculty
The student-to-instructor ratio is 18:1 in the College of Natural Resources, which means you will regularly engage with top faculty.
LEARN in the world's best outdoor classrooms
Conduct research on 12,000 acres of Experimental Forests and 10,000 acres of rangelands at Rinker Rock Creek Ranch or complete a Semester in the Wild in the largest wilderness area in the lower 48 states.
FIND a community
Live with your peers in the College of Natural Resources’ own residence hall. Participate in the student leadership opportunities or join one of the many student clubs and organizations in the college.
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LAUNCH your career
Our alumni are in demand! Private industry, public agencies and non profits hire our graduates. You don’t have to wait to start exploring your future career. Internships and work experience are part of your education in the College of Natural Resources.
ACADEMICS
A.S. FOREST NURSERY MANAGEMENT
& TECHNOLOGY
Our hands-on program gives you real-world experience with the tools, techniques, and technology used in the North American nursery industry. You’ll learn how to grow trees, shrubs, and native plants—from tiny seeds to healthy young plants—using high-tech methods in our state-of-the-art greenhouses at the University of Idaho’s Pitkin Forest Nursery in Moscow. We're one of only two universities in the country that run a forest nursery on a commercial level, producing over 400,000 seedlings a year—and we’re still growing!
Your experience includes:
n Hands-on learning at the Pitkin Forest Nursery, one of the only commercial forest nurseries affiliated with a U.S. university
n Gaining essential sales and marketing skills
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Nursery Technician
n Nursery Manager
n Forest Nursery Sales
"I always knew I wanted to get a degree in natural resources or plants. I started out in a different degree program then heard about the Forest Nursery management degree and I knew it was perfect fit for me. This degree perfectly combines my love of the outdoors with my passion for growing plants and I could not be happier that I've chosen this degree"
- Madison Walker, A.S. Forest Nursery Management Student
A.S. FOREST OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Be part of one of the top forestry programs in the country, where you’ll use cutting-edge harvesting equipment and technology to help manage the University of Idaho’s 10,000+ acre Experimental Forest near Moscow. You’ll build real-world skills through flexible classes, handson training with modern tools, and work alongside professionals from both private companies and public land agencies.
Your experience includes:
n Earning professional certification (e.g., Idaho Logger Education and Advance Professionalism and gain hands-on expereince operating modern logging equipment
n Networking with industry partners
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Logging Equipment Operator
n Logging Contractor
n Forestry Technician
"I would recommend this associate program for people who are handson learners and are hardworking and love being outside." -- Maria Kinne, A.S. Forest Operations and Technology Student
Maria Kinne was among the first students to enroll in University of Idaho’s two-year program, which covers logging equipment operation, timber sale planning, logging safety and business skills.
ACADEMICS
A.S. WILDLAND FUEL & FIRE TECHNOLOGY
Launch your career as a wildland firefighter or fire suppression technician with a flexible, fully online twoyear degree. Learn from expert instructors and build connections with fire professionals across the country— on your schedule, from wherever you are.
This program is perfect for those already working seasonally or full-time in wildfire management, or anyone looking to break into the field while balancing work or other commitments.
Based on our nationally ranked Fire Ecology and Management bachelor’s degree, this associate program combines expert training in wildland fire and fuels with a strong network of professionals at the state and federal levels.
Your experience includes:
n Learn from active wildfire professionals and experts
n Expand your network to help enhance your career opportunities
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Wildland Firefighter
n Fuels Technician
n Dispatcher
n FFT1- Squad Boss
n FEMO- Fire Effect Monitor
CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Turn your passion for nature into a career with a degree in Conservation Biology. This flexible yet challenging major will prepare you to protect wildlife, conserve ecosystems, and help save threatened and endangered species.
You’ll learn how to tackle real-world conservation problems through a mix of hands-on labs and classes in biology, ecology, and environmental science. Plus, you’ll lead your own research project and work one-on-one with a professor to complete your senior capstone— giving you a unique experience that sets you apart.
Your experience includes:
n Hands-on labs and coursework that cover forestry, wildlife, conservation, and ecology.
n A faculty-guided, personalized undergraduate research project where you explore a topic that interests you.
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Conservation Biologist
n Conservation Scientist
n Natural Resource Manager
n Park Naturalist
n Environmental Restoration Planner
"The College of Natural Resources has given me opportunities I couldn’t find anywhere else. From eDNA river sampling and pygmy rabbit surveys to conversations with ranchers and projects in land conservation I’ve built skills rooted in real experience. With world-class faculty and field courses, CNR has prepared me for a successful career in natural resources."
- Abby Evans, Conservation Biology student
ACADEMICS
ECOLOGY & ECOSYSTEM SCIENCE
Focused on understanding how organisms interact with their environment, our ecology and ecosystem science degree will help you understand how plants, animals, and humans are connected as you learn to solve complex problems facing ecosystems around the world.
In this program, you’ll study a mix of natural and social sciences to understand how species interact with each other and their environments. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills to help protect, restore, and manage both natural and developed landscapes – both locally and globally.
Building upon an understanding of foundational ecological principles and processes, you can choose from three emphasis areas – terrestrial ecology, aquatic ecology, or ecosystem ecology. Across all areas, you’ll learn from world-class faculty from across the College of Natural Resources and have the opportunity to conduct undergraduate research across a variety of landscapes in Idaho and the western U.S.
Your experience includes:
n Hands-on learning focused on your chosen emphasis area, like aquatic, terrestrial, or ecosystem ecology.
n Flexible undergraduate research projects where you work closely with a faculty member.
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Restoration Ecologist and Manager
n Field Ecologist
n Riparian and Stream Ecologist
n Naturalist
n Natural Resource Manager
Catherine “Duck” Zeigler is a student focusing on field biology, and spends her summers working to survey forest stands, examine freshwater mussel habitats, monitor bighorn sheep lambing sites, and collect samples from streams.
“I love how broad the Ecology and Ecosystems degree is – it helped me fit into and find my interests when I wasn’t sure what I wanted to focus on, but know I wanted to work outside."
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Discover your future in the Environmental Science Program at the University of Idaho. This is where a strong scientific foundation meets real-world application. Our university-wide, interdisciplinary Environmental Science (ENVS) degree begins with a solid understanding of the science behind today’s environmental challenges.
You’ll learn from faculty across campus who bring current, field-based research into the classroom, creating engaging, relevant learning experiences. Explore critical topics like climate change, natural resource management, sustainability, policy, restoration, and more through the lenses of science, society, politics, and the humanities. This broad, hands-on approach prepares you to think across disciplines and launch a meaningful, impactful career.
Your experience includes:
n Field-based courses
n Hands-on labs
n Interdisciplinary Experience
n Access to faculty in all colleges
n Senior research project
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n GIS Specialist
n Climate Analyst
n Renewable Energy Associate
n Community Planning Outreach
n Author & Magazine Contributor
The Environmental Science program offers 5 emphasis areas, giving students the tailor their education to their interest area. Choose from: Integrated Sciences, Ecological Restoration, Culture and Communication, Policy, Planning and Management, or Sustainability Sciences
FIRE ECOLOGY & MANAGEMENT
Each year, the challenges associated with managing and mitigating the risks of wildland fire increase dramatically. At the University of Idaho, you will learn from top fire experts in one of the first fire science degree programs in the country.
In the Fire Ecology and Management program, you’ll focus on “hand-on” courses that integrate fire ecology, fire management, and economic and policy analysis, preparing you for a career in wildland fire management across different sectors. You’ll also have the opportunity to practice prescribed burning and other fuel reduction techniques to help build more resilient forest and rangelands.
This program is accredited by the Association for Fire Ecology, and it prepares you to make a real impact in the world of wildfire science and management.
Your experience includes:
n Conducting research on more than 10,000 acres at the University of Idaho’s Experimental Forests
n Using spatial analysis software and remote sensing tools to track and predict how wildfires spread.
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Fire Ecologist (AFE Certified)
n Wildland Fuels Specialist
n Fire Planner and Fire Analyst
n Fuels Technician
To get extra experience in the field, students can join the Student Association of Fire Ecology (S.A.F.E). Every year, members take part in prescribed burns and fuel reduction projects with local landowners, travel across the country for hands-on training, and earn important wildland fire certifications through a partnership with the Idaho Department of Lands.
FISHERIES SCIENCES
Help protect fish and aquatic ecosystems in this handson, science-based major. You’ll learn about fish biology, ecology, aquaculture, and how to manage fisheries in a way that supports both nature and people.
In this program, you’ll get real research experience in one of our three on-campus fish labs—working side by side with expert faculty who are leaders in the field. Whether you're interested in conservation, science, or shaping environmental policy, this degree sets you up to make a difference.
Choose specialized focus areas such as aquaculture, conservation law enforcement, and science & management.
Your experience includes:
n Hands-on labs and classes taught by experts in fish disease, genetics and population management
n Field trips to some of the country’s most unique learning spots, like the Frank Church/River of No Return Wilderness in central Idaho.
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Fisheries Biologist
n Fisheries Manager
n Fish Culturist
n Hatchery Manager
n Conservation Officer
The Aquaculture Research Institute (ARI) advances sustainable aquaculture through integrated research, education and outreach focused on food production, fisheries enhancement and stock restoration. ARI researchers study a variety of native and nonnative species — including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, redband trout, sturgeon, burbot, tilapia, and catfish
FOREST & SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS
Jump into a growing industry with a bright future! Thousands of people in Idaho work in forest and sustainable products, and they need smart leaders to create new, eco-friendly products and improve how they’re made.
In this program, you’ll learn the science behind making and using wood and other natural materials, plus the business side of bringing those products to market. Our program is accredited by the Society of Wood Science and Technology—so you’ll be ready to take on real-world challenges in this fast-moving field.
Your experience includes:
n Lab work that challenges you to create new products from organic materials.
n Research in the fast-growing fields of bio-based energy and bioplastics.
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Product Designer
n Bio-energy and Bio-materials Specialist
n Manufacturing Operations Manager
n Forest Products Marketing Specialist
n Structural Product Designer
The ICCU Arena on the University of Idaho campus is more than just a sports venue—it’s a real-world example of sustainable forest product innovation. Built using mass timber, the arena brought together wood products industry partners from across Idaho. This one-of-a-kind building serves as a living laboratory, showing the full journey from forest nursery to sustainable forest management and cutting-edge wood product design.
FORESTRY
Study in one of the nation’s top forestry programs and explore forest ecosystems, sustainable forestry, and how to manage forest and watersheds responsibly. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills to create forest management plans that balance all the different ways forests are utilized for timber, wildlife, clean water, recreation, and other important values.
You’ll study in the classroom, laboratory and field (including our own 10,000-acre Experimental Forest) learning traditional forestry methods as well as cuttingedge technologies that are transforming forest industry. Our forestry allows you to tailor your forestry education with four different emphasis areas including general forestry, forest operations, forest biology, and forest hydrology and watershed management.
Our forestry program has been accredited by the Society of American Foresters for more than 80 years, showing its strong reputation for quality education.
The Student Logging Crew on the University of Idaho Experimental Forest provides students with impactful training and educational opportunities. University of Idaho is the only 4-year forestry program in the United States with a fully mechanized production Student Logging Crew.
Your experience includes:
n Hands-on learning in the field, where you’ll explore operational forestry and the latest scientific practices.
n Access to university-owned forest lands, natural areas, and outdoor classrooms for real-world experience.
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Forester
n Forest Scientist
n Operations Forester
n Forest Hydrologist
n Forest Health Specialist
ACADEMICS
NATURAL RESOURCE ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT
Outdoor recreation is a booming $450 billion industry and a major force in the U.S. economy. The NREM degree prepares students to lead in this fast-growing sector, blending natural resource science with business and entrepreneurship.
This one-of-a-kind undergraduate program gives you the tools to succeed in the business of conservation, recreation, and land management. You’ll explore how to manage and grow outdoor-focused enterprises, guided by expert faculty and real-world experience. With two emphasis options tailored to your career goals, you’ll build the skills employers want— while making a meaningful impact on the natural world.
Whether you’re managing public lands, running a recreation business, or launching your own outdoor venture, this degree gives you the foundation to thrive. No matter the landscape, you’ll gain the knowledge and experience to turn your passion for the outdoors into a successful and purpose-driven career.
Your experience includes:
n Developing outdoor skills
n Managing groups and projects
n Interning with industry professionals in relevant, impactful positions
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Stewardship Coordinator
n Conservation Project Manager
n Communications Director
n Rafting, Fishing, or Hunting Outfitter
n Lodge or Resort Manager
Vandal Ventures is a first-year adventure that helps you transition into life at the University of Idaho. Before classes even begin, you'll hit the river with other new students and CNR instructors. You'll collect real field data for ongoing projects, learn about different majors in natural resources, and best of all, raft some of the best whitewater in the country while building friendships that last.
RANGELAND ECOLOGY & MANAGEMENT
Discover the rangelands and grasslands that cover half the world’s land surface. Managing these natural landscapes and wild habitats, and how people and livestock interact with them, requires specialized skills and science-based knowledge.
You’ll study rangelands through a variety of hands-on and fieldbased courses, learning how to manage, conserve and restore rangelands. Deeply rooted in ecology, the program provides a solid understanding of ecological restoration and the effects of soil, animal grazing, and wildland fire plant communities. You will also study topics in livestock management, wildlife, social factors, recreation, agriculture and other areas of natural resource management.
Graduates of the Rangeland Ecology and Management program are in high demand for careers in restoration ecology, wildlife habitat management, land management and livestock management. Our program is also accredited by the Society for Range Management, ensuring you’ll get a quality education that prepares you for a great career.
Your experience includes:
n Hands-on learning in labs, on field trips, and through conversations with rangeland professionals out in the field.
n The chance to customize your degree by choosing an emphasis area that matches your interests and career goals.
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Rangeland ecologist
n Restoration specialist
n Rangeland livestock manager
n Watershed/riparian ecologist
Emma Macon, B.S. Rangeland Ecology & Management, earned a research fellowship to study virtual fence ear tags for cattle, becoming the first student to analyze optimal size, weight, and placement. Her findings will guide more humane, accurate, and cost-effective livestock management technology across rangelands.
ACADEMICS
WILDLIFE SCIENCES
Learn how to manage wildlife in a way that keeps populations healthy and thriving. In this handson, science-focused program, you’ll build a strong foundation in biology, ecology, and genetics. You’ll also study the environmental, social, and political issues that affect wildlife, helping you understand the challenges behind wildlife policy and management.
Emphasis areas include conservation law enforcement, human-wildlife interactions, or wildlife sciences and management.
Your experience includes:
n Hands-on labs and classes led by experts in wildlife biology, genetics, and wildlife management.
n Field trips to amazing places like the National Bison Range, where you’ll see wildlife conservation in action.
Career Opportunities
Prepare for in-demand careers such as:
n Wildlife Biologist
n Wildlife Manager
n Wildlife Technician
n Conservation Officer
Annie Vaage, B.S. Wildlife Sciences, is an undergraduate researcher who entered the field to collect data on the impact of beaver dams on songbird occupancy. Vaage’s project tests the hypothesis that beaver activity increases songbird occupancy in riparian areas of western rangelands.
GROW YOUR FUTURE INTERNSHIPS and CAREERS
At the University of Idaho’s College of Natural Resources, our students land real jobs! You’ll jumpstart your dream career with internships and summer work opportunities. Every year, you’ll have access to hundreds of job and internship listings, some available only to our students, thanks to strong connections with employers who want to hire you.
Plus, University of Idaho Career Services is here to help you every step of the way. They’ll help you write your resume and cover letter, practice interview skills, and even guide you through job applications. We encourage you to connect with Career Services early and often to get the most out of your college experience.
uidaho.edu/career-services
FINANCIAL AID and SCHOLARSHIPS
There are several ways to pay for your college education.
Financial Aid: You can apply for grants, scholarships, and loans to help cover costs.
Scholarships: As a student in the College of Natural Resources, you have access to over 90 scholarships worth more than $400,000 annually, thanks to the generous support of alumni, parents, and local organizations.
Work: Many students earn part of their tuition by working on campus. We offer plenty of jobs right here in the college, including positions at the Pitkin Forest Nursery and the University of Idaho Experimental Forest.
For more information contact: Student Financial Aid Services 208-885-6312 | finaid@uidaho.edu
UNIQUE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Semester in the Wild
Semester In The Wild takes place at the Taylor Wilderness Research Station, right in the middle of the Frank Church— River of No Return Wilderness. During your fall semester, you’ll earn 17 credits while learning in one of the most remote classrooms in the Lower 48— accessible only by hiking or flying.
Exploring Natural Resources
NR 1010: Exploring Natural Resources is a course all incoming freshmen and transfer students take during their first semester. Almost every week, you’ll go on field trips, explore local landscapes, and work in teams to study important topics like forestry, wildlife, fisheries, rangelands, wildfire, and community planning.
You’ll get to tackle real-world natural resource and environmental issues while learning from different perspectives.
Undergraduate Research
Get hands-on experience by doing research with expert faculty, building sought-after employment skills. Starting as early as your freshman year, you’ll have chances to take part in research both in the classroom and out in the field.
Internships
Gain hands on experience and kickstart your dream career with internships and summer work experiences. Every year, you’ll have access to hundreds of job and internship opportunities—some available only to College of Natural Resources students—thanks to strong connections with employers who want to hire you.
Student Clubs and Organizations
Getting involved in student clubs and organizations is a great way to boost your college experience. You’ll meet natural resource professionals, build a community, and gain hands-on experience that will help you in your future career.
Some of the student groups affiliated with the College of Natural Resources include:
n American Fisheries Society (AFS), Palouse Unit
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers
Conservation and Environment Club
Logger Sports Club
Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences
Range Club / Society for Range Management, Idaho Section
Student Chapter
Society of American Foresters (SAF), Student Chapter Society for Conservation Biology (SCB)
Student Association for Fire Ecology (SAFE)
The Wildlife Society (TWS), U of I Student Chapter
Leadership
Build your leadership skills by becoming an officer in student clubs and organizations. You’ll meet career professionals, learn how to handle different leadership challenges, and make friendships that can last a lifetime.
In your second year, you can apply to be a College of Natural Resources Student Ambassador. As a CNR Ambassador you’ll boost your communication and leadership skills while networking with professionals and building connections across the University of Idaho.
College of
Natural Resources Living Learning Community
The College of Natural Resources has its own residence hall where all natural resources students can live together. You’ll share the space with others who are just as passionate about the outdoors and your field of study.
Study with your roommates in on-site meeting rooms, and connect with natural resource professionals to explore internships and job opportunities—all right where you live.
