Curriculum

Field Naturalists (FNs) enroll in University of Vermont courses to deepen their knowledge of key disciplines such as field botany, field zoology, geomorphology, landscape ecology, hydrology, statistics, and soil science. Field courses designed by the Program's faculty integrate and expand upon traditional University offerings. From alpine areas in the Green Mountains to sand plain forests of the Champlain Valley, Field Naturalists learn a "layer cake" and "pieces, patterns, and process" approach to understanding the dynamic forces that shape and drive natural ecosystems. Hands-on courses help students progress from refining observational skills to tackling complex ecological problems. Much learning occurs in small group settings, with each entering class of four to five students working closely together, and with ecological planners, on field assignments.

Note: The 2013-14 Program begins 15-16 August 2013

Curriculum - 2012/13

Summer
Reading the Landscape (16-17 August 2012, non-credit)

Fall
Fundamentals of Field Science
Field Naturalist Practicum
Field Botany for Natural Resource Professionals
Envisioning a Sustainable Future (EP requirement)

Winter Break
Winter Ecology (Typical Elective)

Spring
Place-based Landscape Analysis
Professional Writing
Elective

Summer
Master's Project Field Research

Fall
Professional Writing 
Land Conservation: Science and Practice (Typical Elective)
Professional Writing (0.5 credits)
Elective
Master's Project Research

Spring
Conservation, Systems, and Sustainability
Professional Writing (0.5 credits)
Elective
Master's Project Research

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Example Elective Courses

• Field Geology and Soil Science for Natural Resource Professionals
• Environmental Conflict Resolution
• Dendrology
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Watershed Hydrology
• Statistical Methods

Focus on Communication

While Field Naturalists learn to master the science behind sound environmental decisions, they also acquire the skills to spark any audience's interest. FNs work one-on-one with professional writers, editors, and public speaking coaches. Whether composing a slide program or scientific manuscript, an essay or a municipal report, Field Naturalists learn to inform and inspire by writing and speaking in language that is clear, concise, and powerful.

Masters Project

The Masters Project is designed in collaboration with a conservation organization (e.g. The Nature Conservancy, the Appalachian Mountain Club, the National Park Service). The field research spans the summer and second fall semester. Students work closely with an advisor and studies committee to ensure that projects are scientifically sound, intellectually challenging, and ecologically relevant.

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Field Naturalist Program - Department of Plant Biology
111 Jeffords Hall - 63 Carrigan Drive
University of Vermont - Burlington, VT 05405
(802) 656-2930 - Lillian.Reade@uvm.edu

Last modified May 24 2012 02:57 PM