South Dakota State University (SDSU) – Department of Natural Resource Management

About the Department of Natural Resource Management

The South Dakota State University (SDSU) Department of Natural Resource Management advances conservation, management and restoration through interdisciplinary research, education and outreach to empower people with the knowledge to address environmental and natural resource challenges.

Natural Resource Management Mission

• Academic programs – We train students to be professionals of distinction who work to support natural resources and the environment.
• Research and scholarly activity – We address critical environmental and natural resource challenges through rigorous investigation and scientific dissemination.
• Outreach – We foster stewardship of the environment and natural resources by providing evidence-based information and help implement it to benefit society.

What Does This Department Do?

The Department of Natural Resource Management:

• Offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in natural resource fields

• Provides hands-on field labs and outdoor learning experiences

• Conducts research related to conservation, ecology, and land management

• Partners with public agencies and private organizations

• Prepares students for professional certification and careers in natural resource industries

Students gain both classroom knowledge and applied field experience to understand ecosystems and sustainable resource management practices.

What Careers Exist Here?

Graduates from this department pursue careers in natural resources, conservation, and environmental management.

Natural Resource & Field-Based Careers

• Wildlife Biologist

• Fisheries Biologist

• Forester

• Rangeland Management Specialist

• Conservation Officer

• Park Ranger

• Habitat Manager

Environmental & Technical Careers

• Environmental Consultant

• Natural Resource Specialist

• Land Management Planner

• Restoration Technician

Research & Education Pathways

• Research Scientist

• Graduate Research Assistant

• Extension Specialist

• Environmental Educator

Students are prepared for employment with state and federal agencies, private consulting firms, nonprofit conservation organizations, and land management entities.

How Do People Grow or Move Up Here?

Students develop professionally through:

• Field-based coursework and applied lab experiences

• Internships with government agencies and conservation organizations

• Undergraduate research opportunities

• Graduate study and advanced research training

• Professional networking with industry partners

Career growth pathways may include:

• Entry-level field technician → Biologist or Specialist

• Specialist → Program Manager or Regional Supervisor

• Continued graduate education → Research or Leadership Roles

Students graduate with both technical knowledge and practical field skills that support long-term career advancement.