Environmental Resource Management

The Environmental Resource Management (E R M) major is an interdisciplinary science-based major designed for students who want to use problem-solving, decision-making, and communications skills to address resource management or environmental issues.

The E R M curriculum is three-tiered, beginning with foundation courses in biology, chemistry, math, and physics. Students then take a series of E R M and other interdisciplinary courses focusing on topical environmental issues. The third tier of courses provides students with the opportunity to specialize by choosing, in consultation with their adviser, an approved minor or an 18-credit group of courses specific to one area of the environment. Minors and specialization areas include watershed and water resources, soil resources, geographic information systems, energy and air pollution, ecology, hazardous waste management, environmental engineering, wildlife and fisheries science, and others.

E R M students are encouraged to participate in internships, independent study, and study abroad during their time at Penn State, and can earn University credits through these experiences.

Why Major In Environmental Resource Management?

You may be interested in the E R M major if you want to

• experience hands-on learning through field- and lab-based resource management courses;
• develop and apply science-based solutions to environmental issues;
• resolve conflicting issues regarding the conservation and management of natural resources;
• pursue graduate or professional degrees subsequent to completing the E R M major.

Career Opportunities for Environmental Resource Management Graduates
E R M graduates find exciting professional opportunities in government agencies at the local (e.g., municipal and county resource agencies), state (e.g., Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources), and federal (e.g., Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service) levels. Private sector jobs involve environmental consulting firms responsible for stream restoration, wetland delineation, environmental assessments, and land management and development. Nonprofit organizations such as watershed associations and conservancies also offer interesting opportunities. In addition, a significant number of students attend graduate or professional schools.

For additional information about Environmental Resource Management, contact

    Dr. Robert Shannon
    119 Agricultural Administration Building
    University Park, PA 16802

    Phone: 814-865-6942
    E-mail: rds13@psu.edu

Or visit the Environmental Resource Management Web site:
http://erm.cas.psu.edu/