Biological Sciences (Ph.D.) - Natural Resource Management Specialization

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus

Students in a lab using a microscope.

Program Coordinator/Contact

Michele Dudash, Department Head and Professor
Department of Natural Resource Management
Edgar S. McFadden Biostress Laboratory 138, Box 2140B
605-688-6121

Program Information

The Natural Resource Management specialization will provide training in ecology, evolution, environmental sciences, and range areas of expertise with a focus on basic and applied research.

Course Delivery Format

Biological Sciences courses are delivered face-to-face and enhanced with web-based instruction. Online delivery may be offered for specific courses. Field research may require extended time periods away from campus.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation, students graduating with a Doctor of Philosophy degree from NRM should be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge of the basic and applied aspects of natural resources as appropriate to a Ph.D. degree holder.
Demonstrate the ability to design and implement a research or management program based in the scientific method.
Demonstrate capability in data processing, analysis, and interpretation to draw conclusions from data.
Effectively express themselves orally and in written form.
Make original contributions to research in natural resources through publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
Demonstrate professional development, especially in regard to the need for continued learning after their degree program.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Doctor of Philosophy	60 Credit Plan
	90 Credit Plan

Core Requirements

60 Credit Plan

GSR 601 - Research Regulations Compliance Credits: 1
NRM 790 - Seminar (COM) Credits: 1 (2 credits required)
BIOS 898D - Dissertation (COM) Credits: 1-7 (30-40 credits required)
STAT courses numbered 500 level or higher Credits: 3
Additional graduate courses approved by advisor and committee and noted on the student’s Plan of Study Credits: 14-24

90 Credit Plan

GSR 601 - Research Regulations Compliance Credits: 1
NRM 790 - Seminar (COM) Credits: 1 (2 credits required)
BIOS 898D - Dissertation (COM) Credits: 1-7 (40-50 credits required)
STAT courses numbered 500 level or higher Credits: 3
Additional graduate courses approved by advisor and committee and noted on the student’s Plan of Study Credits: 34-44

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not Required
TOEFL: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

General Requirements

Graduate students must consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework. For additional information, refer to the Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements .