Be original

The Sustainability, Ecology and Policy Program provides an academic framework that allows students to pursue their intended and emergent interests. It engages students in building knowledge and skills in both the ecological and social science dimensions of the environment. The Program curriculum combines coursework from disciplines within and outside the Rubenstein School to produce an individualized major for each student.

The Sustainability, Ecology and Policy Program was formerly named the Natural Resources Program. The Natural Resources degree name and degree requirements will remain for students enrolled in the program prior to Fall 2022.

Concentrations

Students may choose to concentrate their studies in one of two Sustainability, Ecology and Policy concentrations.

Applied Ecology Concentration

The Applied Ecology curriculum explores the biology and ecology of plants and animals in both aquatic and terrestrial systems and allows students to select courses around specific individual interests.

8 Semester Plan for Applied Ecology (PDF)

Environmental Planning, Policy and Law Concentration

The Environmental Planning, Policy and Law curriculum explores interactions among individuals, communities, and society with nature, resources, and the environment. It allows students to select courses around specific individual interests such as natural resource planning and community, policy and economic dimensions of resource planning, and international dimensions of resource planning.

8 Semester Plan for Environmental Planning, Policy and Law (PDF)

Integrated Natural Resources Concentration.

The Integrated Natural Resources option is the right choice for students who have strong interests in natural resources and the environment, clear academic direction, and the motivation to develop a well-focused, personally meaningful course of study. Working closely with a faculty advisor, students create an individualized program.

Catalogue listing for Integrated Natural Resources

Resource Ecology and Resource Planning Concentrations

For students enrolled prior to Fall 2022, information on the Resource Ecology and Resource Planning Concentrations can be found here:

All 8-Semester Program Plans

Beyond the classroom

Experiential learning is a hallmark of the Rubenstein School. Intensive field courses and study abroad provide opportunities for students to learn thoughout the United States and internationally. 

Explore Rubenstein School Off-Campus Study Programs

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Graduate employment rate

95%

of UVM graduates are employed or continuing their education within 6 months of graduating.

Careers

  • Environmental Outreach Specialist
  • Community Planner
  • Aquatic Ecologist
  • Field Ecologist
  • Natural Resources Manager
  • Sustainability Program Specialist
  • Policy Analyst
  • GIS Analyst
  • ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Analyst

Where alumni work

  • Non-profit environmental & social organizations
  • Regional planning commissions
  • Local, State, and Federal Government agencies
  • Land conservation organizations
  • Private consulting firms

Graduate Schools

  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of Colorado, Boulder and Denver
  • Vermont Law School
  • Pace University
  • University of Vermont

Related Information

Dual Degree and Accelerated Master's Programs