M.S. in Natural Resources & Ecology

Entry requirements for postgraduate students:

Application Fee: US $75

Academic Qualifications:

• Applicants are expected to have a strong academic background, with a minimum requirement of 80% in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5.
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum overall score of 80 in the Internet-based Test (iBT).
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum overall score of 53.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 120.

Standardized Test Requirements:

• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): The specific GRE score expectation is a minimum of 290. 

SUNY Plattsburgh is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community, and as part of this commitment, the university offers various scholarship opportunities for international students. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic achievement, leadership qualities, and the potential for making a positive impact. 

International Student Academic Excellence Scholarship: The Academic Excellence Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students based on their academic achievements. Eligibility criteria often include a strong academic record, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. The scholarship aims to support students who have demonstrated exceptional scholarly abilities.

Global Diversity Scholarship: SUNY Plattsburgh values diversity and recognizes the unique perspectives that international students bring to the campus community. The Global Diversity Scholarship is designed to celebrate and support students from different cultural backgrounds. Recipients are often selected based on their contributions to promoting diversity and inclusion.

International Student Leadership Scholarship: This scholarship is geared towards international students who have demonstrated exemplary leadership skills, both in their academic pursuits and extracurricular activities. Leadership roles, community service, and a commitment to making a positive impact are often considered in the selection process.

Community Engagement Scholarship: SUNY Plattsburgh encourages international students to actively engage with the local and campus communities. The Community Engagement Scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated a commitment to community service and engagement. Applicants may need to provide evidence of their involvement in community initiatives.

Global Scholars Program: The Global Scholars Program is a comprehensive scholarship initiative that may include financial support, mentorship, and specialized programming. This program is designed for high-achieving international students who aspire to make a significant impact in their academic and community endeavors.

Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at SUNY Plattsburgh offer specific scholarships for international students within their respective fields. These scholarships may be tied to academic majors, research interests, or career goals.

Graduates of the Master of Science (M.S.) in Natural Resources & Ecology program at SUNY Plattsburgh are well-equipped to embark on impactful careers contributing to the preservation and sustainable management of natural environments. The program's STEM designation and interdisciplinary approach prepare graduates for a diverse range of opportunities within the field of natural resources and ecology. The M.S. in Natural Resources & Ecology program at SUNY Plattsburgh not only provides a solid foundation in ecological principles but also prepares graduates to address the complex challenges of the environmental sector. With a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and a commitment to sustainability, individuals completing this program can look forward to meaningful and impactful careers in natural resource management and ecological conservation.

1. Environmental Scientist: Graduates can pursue roles as environmental scientists, conducting research and analysis to assess the impact of human activities on ecosystems. They contribute to the development of strategies for sustainable resource management.

2. Ecologist: With a deep understanding of ecological principles, graduates may choose to work as ecologists, studying the relationships between organisms and their environments. They contribute valuable insights to ecological conservation and restoration projects.

3. Conservation Biologist: Graduates can specialize as conservation biologists, focusing on the protection and management of endangered species and ecosystems. They may work with governmental agencies, non-profits, or environmental consulting firms.

4. Natural Resource Manager: Individuals may pursue careers as natural resource managers, overseeing the sustainable use of resources such as forests, water, and wildlife. They play a crucial role in balancing human needs with environmental conservation.

5. Wildlife Biologist: Those passionate about wildlife conservation can work as wildlife biologists, studying animal behavior, population dynamics, and habitat requirements. They contribute to the development of conservation plans for diverse species.

6. Environmental Consultant: Graduates may choose to work as environmental consultants, providing expertise to businesses and organizations on sustainable practices, compliance with environmental regulations, and ecological impact assessments.

7. GIS Specialist: Leveraging their proficiency in Geographic Information System (GIS), graduates can pursue roles as GIS specialists, mapping and analyzing spatial data to support environmental planning and decision-making.

8. Research Scientist: Some graduates may opt for careers as research scientists, contributing to academic institutions or research organizations. They engage in groundbreaking research to address pressing environmental challenges.

9. Educator/Outreach Coordinator: Individuals with a passion for education and outreach may become educators or outreach coordinators, working to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices in communities.

10. Environmental Policy Analyst: Graduates can influence environmental policies by working as policy analysts, evaluating the impact of policies on ecosystems and advocating for sustainable practices at local, regional, or national levels.