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College of Agriculture, Life, & Physical Sciences

NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Study Natural Resource Management in Big Bend Country

At Sul Ross State University, you’ll learn natural resource management (NRM) where it happens: in the mountains, deserts, grasslands, and water systems of Far West Texas.

Located in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert, Sul Ross offers one of the most hands-on Natural Resource Management programs in Texas. Students gain real-world experience studying wildlife, rangelands, ecosystems, conservation, and land stewardship across millions of acres of diverse landscapes.

With an NRM degree, you’ll build the scientific knowledge and field experience needed for a meaningful career outdoors, and become a wildlife biologist, ranch manager, conservation scientist, habitat specialist, or natural resource professional.

Master's Student with Drone

Choose Your Education Pathway

Whether you’re beginning your journey into natural resource management or preparing to advance your career through graduate study, Sul Ross State University offers degree programs designed to connect students with the landscapes, wildlife, and conservation challenges.

Natural Resource Management
Bachelor of Science (BS)

Concentrations:

  • Conservation Biology
  • Range & Wildlife Management

Build a strong foundation in ecology, wildlife science, conservation, land management, and field research techniques while exploring the unique environments of the Big Bend region. Students gain hands-on experience through field courses, research opportunities, and applied learning that prepares them for careers in natural resource conservation and management.

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Range & Wildlife Management
Master of Science (MS)

Advance your expertise in wildlife ecology, habitat management, and applied research. Students work with faculty and natural resource partners to address real-world conservation challenges through scientific investigation. This program actively engages students through the entire scientific method, from project design through publication. Upon completion of this degree, students are prepared to work as wildlife biologists, range scientists, soil scientists, and other related careers that collect and analyze data to inform management decisions.

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Environmental Sciences
Master of Science (MS), non-thesis

Designed for working professionals, students in this program will gain advanced knowledge of environmental systems, natural resource management, conservation, sustainability, and environmental policy. Students will develop a strong understanding of environmental challenges and solutions that integrates ecological principles, scientific analysis, and applied management strategies. The program emphasizes critical thinking and science-based decision-making to address complex environmental issues.

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Why Choose Sul Ross for NRM?

Learn Hands-On
Many of our courses take you outside the classroom to gain experience in one of North America’s most ecologically diverse regions, including the Chihuahuan Desert, Davis Mountains, Big Bend region, and surrounding rangelands.

Develop Employable Skills
Learn professional field and laboratory techniques, including wildlife monitoring, vegetation assessment, habitat evaluation, GIS applications, and natural resource data collection.

Conduct Meaningful Research
As an undergraduate student, you have the opportunity to work alongside faculty and researchers through the Borderlands Undergraduate Research and Mentorship Program (BUMP). As a graduate student, you will conduct research with the Borderlands Research Institute, an institution recognized for its contributions to wildlife conservation, habitat management, and applied research throughout the Chihuahuan Desert and beyond.

Connect with Industry Professionals
Build professional connections with conservation organizations, ranching operations, state and federal agencies, and research partners throughout Texas and the Southwest.

Browse NRM Courses

Quote

“It is clear that BRI successfully prepares students for becoming wildlife professionals and conservationists, and I am honored to be a part of this team.” – Nicole Dickan, graduate

Nicole Dickan with Bobcat
Students working with Desert Bighorn Sheep

Careers in Natural Resource Management

Graduates pursue careers with organizations such as:

  • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
  • Texas Wildlife Association
  • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  • USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
  • National Park Service
  • Nonprofit conservation organizations
  • Public and private ranch management
  • Environmental consulting firms
  • Universities and research institutions

Live and Learn in Alpine, Texas

When you study at Sul Ross State University, you’re not just earning a degree, you’re experiencing life in Alpine, the heart of Far West Texas and the gateway to the Big Bend region. Alpine offers students a unique blend of outdoor adventure, small-town community, and cultural experiences. From exploring nearby Big Bend National Park, hiking in the Davis Mountains, and enjoying some of the darkest night skies in North America to attending local festivals, art events, and live music, there’s always something to discover beyond the classroom. Alpine’s welcoming atmosphere, thriving downtown, local restaurants, galleries, and year-round events create an unforgettable college experience where students can connect with nature, their community, and opportunities for personal growth.

Alpine Photo Gallery

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