Natural Resources and Environmental Studies

Program Overview

The Master of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (MNRES) at UNBC integrates science, social science, and resource management perspectives to address complex environmental challenges. It offers a comprehensive curriculum with core courses, methods, and elective options, preparing graduates for diverse careers in natural resources and environmental studies. Students can choose between a thesis or project option, with assessment methods varying based on coursework and research projects.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (MNRES) at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is designed to integrate the various aspects of resource and environmental issues. It emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach that combines traditional science with social science perspectives, as well as resource planning and management. This degree aims to attract students with diverse backgrounds and aspirations who share an interest in transcending traditional disciplinary boundaries.

Objectives:

• Provide a comprehensive understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of natural resources and environmental studies.
• Equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address complex environmental challenges from various perspectives.
• Foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and research abilities in the context of natural resource management.
• Prepare graduates for diverse career paths in the field of natural resources and environmental studies.

Outline:

Core Courses (16 credit hours):

• NRES 700-3 Research in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies
• NRES 701-0.5 Graduate Colloquia (taken twice)
• NRES 792-12 Master of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies Thesis

Methods Course (3 credit hours):

• Selected from approved methods courses relevant to the student's research area

Integrated Resource Management Course (3 credit hours):

• Selected from approved integrated resource management courses

Elective Courses (3 credit hours):

• Chosen from a range of graduate-level courses to pursue specialized interests within an interdisciplinary context

Thesis Option:

• Requires the completion of an independent research thesis (NRES 792-12) that addresses an integrated research problem.
• Students must complete a minimum of 3 elective credit hours with an emphasis on an integrated approach to natural resource issues.

Project Option:

• Designed for students seeking to enhance their professional career skills.
• Requires the completion of a project (NRES 793-6) that addresses a significant problem or issue in the field of natural resources and environmental studies.
• Students must complete a minimum of 9 elective credit hours at the graduate level, resulting in a broad understanding of natural resources and environmental issues.

Assessment:

The assessment methods and criteria used in the MNRES program vary depending on the specific courses and research projects undertaken by students. However, some common assessment methods include:

• Coursework: Regular assignments, quizzes, and exams are used to assess students' understanding of course material.
• Research projects: Students are evaluated on the quality of their research designs, data collection and analysis, and written and oral presentations of their findings.
• Thesis or project: The thesis or project is a major component of the program and is assessed by a supervisory committee.
The assessment criteria include the originality and significance of the research, the quality of the writing and presentation, and the student's ability to defend their work.

Teaching:

The MNRES program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members from various disciplines, including ecosystem science and management, geography, earth and environmental sciences, outdoor recreation and tourism management, and planning and sustainability. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and field trips.

Careers:

Graduates of the MNRES program are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in the field of natural resources and environmental studies. Some potential career paths include:

• Natural resource manager
• Environmental consultant
• Resource planner
• Policy analyst
• Researcher
• Educator