Natural Resources
The Natural Resources Master of Science program at Cornell University provides a research intensive and interdisciplinary academic environment for students seeking to understand how ecological systems, human behavior, and environmental management practices shape the use and conservation of natural landscapes. The curriculum blends ecological science, resource economics, environmental policy, wildlife management, and sustainability studies, enabling learners to explore how natural resources can be protected, restored, and utilized responsibly. With a strong emphasis on resource sustainability, students develop scientific and analytical skills that allow them to evaluate ecosystem dynamics, interpret environmental data, and design management strategies that support ecological resilience and long term environmental health. This integrated approach helps students analyze natural environments from both scientific and human centered perspectives.
Throughout its two year duration, the program offers extensive opportunities for research guided learning, field based study, and interdisciplinary collaboration with faculty who specialize in forestry, conservation biology, aquatic science, climate adaptation, and environmental governance. Students strengthen their scientific depth through ecological analysis, data modeling, observational research, and applied environmental assessment. The academic structure encourages learners to link theoretical frameworks with real world environmental challenges, examining issues such as habitat loss, climate change, water resource protection, and community based conservation. This balanced combination of fieldwork, research, and conceptual study prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to natural resource planning, environmental innovation, and conservation leadership.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Natural Resources
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 March 2026
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Natural Sciences
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Foundations of Natural Resource Science
• Ecosystem Processes and Environmental Systems
• Research Methods in Natural Resources
• Elective in Conservation, Forestry, or Policy
Semester 2
• Wildlife and Habitat Management
• Environmental Data Analysis
• Field Studies in Natural Resource Assessment
• Elective in Water Resources, Climate, or Human Dimensions
Semester 3
• Advanced Natural Resource Modeling
• Resource Policy and Governance
• Laboratory or Field Research Experience
• Elective in Restoration Ecology, Land Use, or Sustainability
Semester 4
• Master’s Research Thesis
• Applied Natural Resource Management
• Professional Development in Environmental Science
• Elective in Advanced Ecology or Resource Planning
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program advance into roles that support environmental protection, conservation science, and sustainable resource management, frequently joining environmental research institutes, conservation and wildlife organizations, government resource agencies, and environmental consulting firms. Their strong preparation in ecological analysis, field research, and environmental policy enables them to contribute to habitat assessments, conservation planning, climate resilience initiatives, watershed protection, and natural resource monitoring. With interdisciplinary scientific training, they support evidence based decision making and help design strategies that safeguard ecosystems, biodiversity, and community resources across both public and private sectors.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent option for students committed to environmental stewardship and scientific inquiry, offering opportunities to develop advanced ecological insight and strong analytical capability supported by Cornell’s expertise in natural resource science. Through immersive fieldwork, rigorous research training, and interdisciplinary coursework, learners gain the tools to evaluate environmental challenges, design sustainable management approaches, and engage in conservation oriented decision making. Its structured two year format ensures deep scientific development and prepares graduates for influential roles in environmental research, conservation leadership, and natural resource planning.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
