rainbow over the mountains

Geosciences & Natural Resources Department

Build a career that can shape the world we live in through Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ's leading programs on the environment.
Students have extensive opportunities for hands-on learning through field experiences, undergraduate research, and professional mentorship by internationally-recognized faculty.

Students gain hands-on learning in the field while our campus and region provide many fieldwork opportunities. The department maintains close relationships with affiliates that support educational and research experiences for students. 

Our Degree Programs

The Geosciences and Natural Resources Department is comprised by a wide range of geoscience-based disciplines, which are represented through 5 different programs.
Students outside with protective gear studying an area recently hit by wildfires
With four concentrations, students to gain a deep understanding of their chosen field, while maintaining an broader knowledge of another discipline while preparing them to teach science at the secondary level.
Environmental Science students working outdoors together in a field
Flexibility and customization is the hallmark of this interdisciplinary program where students interested in protecting the environment develop expertise in evaluating the human effects and building sustainable solutions.
Student smiling for the camera next to a globe and geography documents
Through diverse areas of study, Geography students develop a strong understanding of physical and cultural landscapes, geospatial technologies, and environmental processes while preparing for careers in a variety of fields.
A student standing outside holding a magnifying lens as they study a rock and its composition
An interdisciplinary science, students explore a curriculum in the heart of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. They gain a solid foundation applicable to many careers with hands-on projects, field research, and career-focused concentrations.
Natural Resources Conservation Management students in the woods hiking up a steep slope
Located in one of the most bio-diverse regions globally, students have access to resources in a natural laboratory for hands-on studying focused on the conservation and sustainable management of our natural resources. 

Beyond Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ

Kara McMullen smiling for the camera at a scenic overlook in Panthertown Valley
A Wild Beginning: Alumni Kara McMullen on a career in Panthertown
Kara McMullen'
Environmental Science '2022
Kara McMullen's Story
The Western Carolina Hydrological Research Station (WCHRS) serves three distinct, but mutually supportive roles
Lord, M. ; Kinner, D. A. ; Campbell, T. R.

What Your Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ Degree Can Get You

  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Urban Planning
  • Environmental Consulting
  • Sustainability Management
  • Natural Resource Management
  • Wildlife Conservation
  • Emergency Management
  • Conservation Planning
Career Services