Bachelor of Natural Resource Science (BNRS)

In a world where specialization is the norm, professionals who are well versed in all aspects of natural resources are in demand.

This unique program consists of 120 credits which can be completed in four or five-years on a full-time basis, or up to seven- years on a part-time basis once admitted to the program. You will take courses in biology, chemistry, ecology, scientific methods, and specific resource management courses.

The program prepares you for a wide range of natural resource sector careers and for further study in graduate school. You will be ready to work in resource management and planning for government or industry.

For students interested in certification by a professional association, TRU is seeking accreditation for selected specific courses from the Association of British Columbia Professional Foresters.

Completion of the BNRS degree fulfils the academic requirements of the B.C. Institute of Agrologists and College of Applied Biology.

Students wishing to enter a teaching program at the secondary level can do so with an additional six credits of upper-level biology courses. Contact your chairperson before planning electives.

Fieldwork experience

Field study offers a valuable learning experience. Many of the courses offered by the natural resource science department include a field component. As you progress through the program, you will gain field experience in areas including vegetation analysis, soil analysis, forest stand measurements, lake analysis, and vertebrate and invertebrate sampling techniques.

Course field trips are numerous and diverse. They include visits to the TRU Education and Research station adjacent to Wells Gray Provincial Park, grassland ecosystems, coastal and interior forest ecosystems, forest research stations, active mining sites (reclamation), local ranches, and fish hatcheries (locations change from year to year).

International field school in Belize

This 14-day course in Belize, Central America examines the issues, approaches and people involved with natural resource management in a tropical country. Belize has good facilities and many of its diverse natural resources are in the early stages of development. Students will make short-term trips to various sites throughout the country to examine a wide array of areas, concepts and subjects. Some of the resource sectors you will investigate include animal and plant conservation, costs and benefits of ecotourism, government policies, cultural resources (e.g., Mayan temples), industrial development, fisheries and agriculture.

Field school highlights:

• Course length is 14 days in Belize, Central America
• Learn first-hand how tropical ecosystem management impacts tourism opportunities
• Many guest speakers
• Enrolment is open to students in various degree programs at TRU and other universities and colleges
• TRU students are eligible for a $500 bursary from TRU World