What is Natural Resource Ecology & Management?

Natural resource ecology and management combines biology, ecology, wetland science, and environmental science. You’ll explore Louisiana’s forests, wetlands, and coastal ecosystems while learning to solve real environmental challenges in wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, forestry, and aquaculture. A major in natural resource ecology and management prioritizes hands-on learning and real-world experience through fieldwork in diverse ecosystems. You'll build the skills necessary for a strong career in wetland, wildlife, fisheries, and more. LSU offers concentrations in Conservation BiologyEcological RestorationFisheries and AquacultureForest Resource ManagementPre-Veterinary Medicine (Wildlife and Fisheries)Watershed ScienceWetland SciencesWildlife Ecology, and Wildlife Habitat Conservation & Management.

Program Highlights
Louisiana Advantage Study and participate in research in one of the country's most active environmental hubs — where diverse ecosystems of forests, wetlands, and water systems and real challenges make every class and field visit meaningful.
Forest Facilities Train at unique facilities like the School of Renewable Natural Resources' Lee Memorial Forest — LSU’s working research forest.
Agriculture Residential College Live and learn with your peers in Blake Hall — your residence with dedicated support from faculty and staff, shared classes, and special activities to jumpstart your journey and promote academic success, creating a smaller network within the larger LSU campus.
Customized Career Path Choose from one of nine specializations — conservation biology, ecological restoration, fisheries and more — to align your studies with your future career.

What You Can Do

An LSU degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths and professional opportunities. With a strong academic foundation, real-world learning, and support from a powerful alumni network, you’ll graduate prepared for success in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re planning to work in a corporate setting, nonprofit organization, government agency, creative industry, or research lab, LSU equips you with the in-demand skills and hands-on experience employers value most.

Potential Careers

Conservation Biologist
Forester
Forestry & Environmental Consultant
Wildlife & Fisheries Ecologist
Wildlife & Fisheries Veterinarian
Environmental Lawyer
Wetland Scientist
Wildlife Veterinarian

Workplace Settings

National & State Parks
Federal & State Environmental Agencies
Zoos, Aquariums, Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers
Nonprofit Conservation Organizations
Environmental Law Firms
Research Institutions & Universities
Wetland & Habitat Restoration Organizations

$51,000
Average alumni Natural Resource Ecology & Management salary 5 years after graduation
Building Skills
Master Field Research Gather and analyze environmental data in real-world field settings.
Habitat Restoration Apply ecological techniques to rebuild forests, wetlands, and coastal areas.
Wildlife Protection Develop conservation strategies that support biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Science Communication Break down complex topics so anyone can understand your message.
Advance your Career
Post-graduate education
LSU offers competitively ranked post-graduate programs designed to help you innovate and lead in your field. Engage in advanced coursework, contribute to impactful research, and learn from expert faculty who are solving real-world challenges across Louisiana and beyond. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise, pivot into a new industry, or accelerate your career, LSU’s graduate programs open the door to a world of opportunity.
Apply Today!