Natural Resources and Rangeland Ecology - Rangeland Ecology and Management Montana State University

Overview

The Natural Resources and Rangeland Ecology - Rangeland Ecology and Management programme at Montana State University offers students a comprehensive foundation in the ecological principles required to manage vast landscapes. This degree focuses on the complex interactions between livestock and rangeland habitats to support both public and private land agencies.

Students engage with a curriculum that balances scientific theory with practical application in the field. The programme covers essential topics such as watershed management, rangeland restoration, and vegetation ecology. This ensures that graduates are well-equipped to handle the environmental challenges facing the western United States.

The flexible nature of the course allows individuals to tailor their studies toward specific interests.

Why Natural Resources and Rangeland Ecology - Rangeland Ecology and Management at Montana State University?

Montana State University is recognised as the leading research enterprise in the state, with annual expenditures exceeding $200 million. This research-intensive environment provides students with unique opportunities to engage in cutting-edge scientific discovery. The institution is also ranked as the top public university in Montana for value and student experience.

The Department of Animal and Range Sciences maintains exceptional world-class facilities for hands-on learning. Students have access to various experimental ranch facilities, including the Red Bluff Ranch and the Bandy Experimental Ranch. these sites allow for practical experimentation and observation in real-world rangeland settings.

Career support is a significant priority, with over 96% of graduates finding employment or continuing their education within a year. The Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success provides dedicated career coaching and professional skills workshops. These resources help students refine their communication and networking abilities for the job market.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 33782 per year
• National fee: USD 33782 per year
• Local fee: USD 8946 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Year One

• College Algebra
• Natural Resource Conservation
• Montana Range Plants
• Biological Diversity
• Economic Way of Thinking
• Animal Science
• Leadership Development for Agriculture
• Public Speaking
• General Chemistry

Year Two

• Living Systems
• Range and Pasture Monitoring
• Natural Resource Ecology
• Forages
• Soils
• Business Communication
• Technical Writing
• Livestock in Sustain Systems
• Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry
• Identification of Seed Plants
• Statistics

Year Three

• Fire Ecology and Mgmt
• GIS Science & Cartog
• Restoration Ecology
• Agrostology
• Plant Systematics
• Wildlife-Livestock Nutrition
• Vegetation of Western Wildlands
• Biomes of Western Wildlands
• Grazing Ecology and Management

Year Four

• Habitat Inventory and Analysis
• Landscape Pedology
• General Ecology
• Plant Physiology
• Riparian Ecology & Management
• Range & Wildlife Policy and Planning
• Wildlife Habitat Ecology

Careers with Natural Resources and Rangeland Ecology - Rangeland Ecology and Management

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles within environmental and agricultural sectors. Common career paths include federal land management, rangeland consultancy, and professional rangeland management. These roles are vital for maintaining the health and productivity of natural landscapes.

Other opportunities exist in natural resource conservation and land-use planning for government or private organisations. The skills gained in resource inventory and restoration ecology are highly valued by employers. Career coaches at the university assist students in navigating these various professional pathways effectively.