Many researchers believe that the modern world faces enormous environmental problems that have been created by humanity’s interference with nature’s cycles.

Managing changes in climate, population growth and the use of land and water resources will require professional expertise, if we intend to achieve sustainable development.

In local communities in Norway it is also important to link ecological knowledge to knowledge of management and planning, especially if we are to achieve a sustainable future society.

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Ecology and Natural Resources is aimed at students who are interested in the conservation of the natural environment, biodiversity, sustainable management of natural resources, ecotourism and ecological land use planning.

The study programme is interdisciplinary and provides students with ecological insight so they will be able to manage natural resources in both global and local contexts.

The first year of the study programme will provide students with basic knowledge of biological and environmental topics, climate and energy, and man and views of nature.

The second and third year of study will focus on special ecological conditions related to fresh water, mountains, game and fishing, and this will also be viewed in the context of, amongst other things, ecotourism and sustainable nature-based tourism. The relationship between living organisms and environmental conditions will be examined with special emphasis on the human impact.

How land use planning is used to manage conservation areas in accordance with current laws will be examined using geographic information systems (GIS) as a tool.

Fieldwork and excursions are an important part of the study programme. Towards the end of the study programme students will be offered greater choice in the selection of courses.

Students who have completed Nature & Outdoor Studies, 1-year programme, or equivalent studies, may apply to enrol directly to the second year of the programme.