The Master of Arts in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (MA NRES) at the University of Northern British Columbia provides a distinctive postgraduate pathway for students interested in the social dimensions of human-environment interactions, particularly from community-based or regional perspectives. This degree is ideal for those seeking to understand the human perspectives on historical and contemporary resource and environmental issues, encouraging a deep dive into the social, cultural, ethical, economic, and political dynamics of resource and land use, and environmental change, especially within northern ecosystems. You will develop a nuanced understanding of complex environmental challenges through specialized study.
This full-time, on-campus MA program is structured over two years, integrating core graduate colloquia, research methods, and a substantial 12-credit hour thesis project. You will select electives to focus on specialized interests, with a minimum of 6 credit hours emphasizing the human dimensions of resource issues, and potentially more if required for professional accreditation. Throughout your studies, you will engage in critical analysis and research, culminating in the defense of an independent research thesis. You will graduate prepared for careers in environmental management, policy analysis, community development, and conservation organizations.