Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Science
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Natural Resources & Environmental Science is ideal for students passionate about protecting the environment and managing natural resources for future generations. This program prepares graduates for careers in environmental consulting, conservation biology, sustainable agriculture, or resource management, equipping them with the knowledge to tackle challenges related to climate change, habitat restoration, and environmental policy.
Program Overview
The Natural Resources and Environmental Science (NRES) major is an interdisciplinary program that provides the knowledge, skills, and field experiences necessary for a career in environmental science, natural resource management, environmental consulting and other environmental work. With coursework across the natural and social sciences, you can tailor this program to your interests by selecting both a skill and an environmental emphasis area as key elements of their degree program. The NRES program emphasizes experiential learning through summer camps, internships, research projects and more. You can pursue many career paths with an NRES degree. To fit your studies with your interests and career goals, you'll choose a concentration area in both analytics and environmental studies: Analytic Area Topics: Economics & Policy Field & Laboratory Analysis Environmental Education & Communication GIS & Computer Mapping. Individualized Environmental Area Topics: Wildlife Forestry Conservation Biology Geology Sustainable Agriculture Soils Water Environmental Planning.
Related Careers
The NRES program has a strong foundation in the natural sciences which prepares you for a variety of technical professions such as:
- Conservation Scientist
- Environmental Law & Policy
- Environmental Quality Manager
- Environmental Scientist
- Land Planning Consultant
- Natural Resource Manager
- Environmental Educator
- Sustainability Coordinator
- Wildlife Technician
- Urban Planner
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What You'll Learn
You can pursue many career paths with an NRES degree. To fit your studies with your interests and career goals, you'll choose a concentration area in both analytics and environmental studies:
Analytical Skills Development Areas:
- Economics & Policy Analysis
- Field & Laboratory Analysis of Ecosystems
- Environmental Education & Communication
- Geospatial Analysis
- Individualized
Environmental System Emphasis Areas:
- Conservation Biology
- Earth System Sciences
- Forestry
- Global Sustainable Food Systems
- Human Dimensions & Natural Resource Planning
- Soil Science
- Water Resources
- Wildlife Ecology & Management
- Individualized
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2025
The faculty were thought-provoking. I would not be in my current position without the effort and preparation that the faculty put into every class.
Tris West
NRES Alum and former Deputy Associate Director of the White House Council on Environmental Quality
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Tuition Rate
For residents of the states listed below, this program qualifies you to receive the University of Kentucky's in-state tuition rate through the Academic Common Marketplace.
West Virginia
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the Martin-Gatton CAFE Living Learning Program
Live in a community full of others who share your interests in agriculture, food and environment! Community members also gain access to specialized programs that foster relationships, professional growth, and community.
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At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
