This major prepares you to apply economic tools to evaluate natural resources and the management of our environment. By studying economic theory, you’ll gain an understanding of environmental issues and learn how to predict effects of government policies. You’ll work to explore solutions to pressing economic and environmental problems. In contrast to other natural resource courses, this major focuses on weighing the private and public implications of choices that we make on local and global scales. This major is also available online.

Environmental and resource economists are employed in a wide range of fields from education and research to business and government. Profit and non-profit organizations employ economists in international and community development, international relations, and environmental and conservation analyses. Some examples include, but are not limited to, energy resource analyst, environmental researcher/analyst, resource policy analyst, natural resource analyst, environmental pollution analyst, environmental policy analyst, economic analyst/forecaster, land use planner, international development specialist, rural community organizer, community development specialist, financial analyst, foreign trade analyst, market forecaster, and extension agent. Participation in internships, volunteer activities, and cooperative education opportunities is highly recommended to enhance practical training and development. Graduates who seek further specialization are prepared to pursue advanced studies.