The two master's degrees offered by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment are designed for students desiring careers in resources management and students planning doctoral work, as well as those wishing to be better-informed citizens. The courses and curriculum for the two degrees were developed in cooperation with groups and agencies that work professionally with resource management in Alaska. These agencies, including the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service contribute significantly to the programs by providing guest lecturers and internship and research opportunities for students.<br><br>The master's degree in natural resources and environment is designed to prepare students for a management career in natural resources planning and administration, communication and public information, and/or operational innovation, improvement and impact assessment. While not requiring scientific research, the work is expected to involve critical reflection, empirical inquiry and intellectual honesty. A written product and an oral presentation demonstrating sound scholarship will be required. Final acceptance of the project will be by the student's committee and the chair of DNRE.