Bachelor of Science in Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management

The Department of Ecosystem Science and Management offers two programs leading to a Bachelor of Science degree. These are Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management and Agroecology (an interdepartmental program offered through the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management and the Department of Plant Sciences). The coursework requirements necessary for obtaining an agroecology degree are described in the department of Plant Sciences section of this publication. Either degree can also be obtained as an affiliate degree in conjunction with the School of Environment and Natural Resources. Six minor degree programs are offered through the department: Insect Biology, Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management, Soil Science, Agroecology, Forest Resources, and Reclamation and Restoration Ecology. Obtaining a minor to complement a B.S. major degree program provides credentials and knowledge that can expand career opportunities. The degree programs reflect the department's diverse expertise in natural resource and agriculture sciences. Students completing degrees offered through the department are well prepared for careers in natural resource management and sustainable agriculture (e.g., range management, watershed management, restoration ecology/reclamation of degraded land, wildlife habitat management, biocontrol/integrated pest management, soil science, and various types of environmental consulting) or other science careers. Student Learning Outcomes The goal of the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management is to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge in several different areas in addition to their specific area of study. These expectations ensure that students may take these learned skills and successfully apply them in their post-graduate endeavors. Assessments in all areas are based on knowledge, skills, and attitude. These areas include: Oral communication encompasses all the abilities necessary for effective expression and sharing of information, ideas, and feelings in a format including verbal and nonverbal symbols. Proficiency in written communication will ensure that students will be able to write for different audiences, from expressive writing to technical writing, using a range of sophistication in language. Professional behavior involves attaining high standards of behavior and appropriate attitudes, not only through acquiring knowledge and experience, but a lifelong commitment to learning and achievement. Competency in critical thinking and problem solving will enable students to engage in reasonable, reflective thinking focused on deciding what to believe or do. Computer and information literacy ensures that students will be viewed as trainable and adaptable in a computerized work environment. Proficiency in this area also enables students to effectively access online information, and skillfully make use of it. The results in these different areas will aid the department in: Planning instructional strategies to address student strengths and weaknesses; Evaluating and describing overall student achievement; Counseling students for academic and career options; and Evaluating the effectiveness of instructional programs.