A master's degree in Natural Resources provides students with research focused knowledge and experience in conservation and management of diverse natural resources such as wildland animals, plants and water. Each student works with a faculty advisor and committee to develop and implement an individual plan of study and research topic (thesis). Students will gain hands-on experience while working with distinguished faculty in state-of-the-art facilities. Our master's students also have an opportunity to complete a dual degree program in Business Administration.Graduate students in the M.S. and Ph.D. programs work with a faculty advisory committee during their first semester to develop an individual plan of study including choosing a research topic, identifying appropriate coursework and transfer credit, and selecting potential thesis committee members.Prior to the meeting, students must provide the committee a proposed program of study and a description of their background, general research area, and career objectives. The committee will either accept the proposal or suggest modifications to be made within two weeks. Our M.S. program require a minimum of 30 to 36 units, depending on the program, while our Ph.D. requires a minimum of 63 units. Non-thesis options are available in some programs.A fisheries conservation and management emphasis within our graduate program prepares you for professional careers with state and federal fish and wildlife agencies, non-governmental conservation organizations, private consulting firms, or for research and academic roles.Research programs range from field studies in rivers and streams, springs, reservoirs, and high mountain lakes, to many types of laboratory and aquaculture experiments. You’ll develop an individual plan of study focused on your selected area of research. Students in this program frequently collaborate with the Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the Arizona Game and Fish Department, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.