Bachelor of Science in Energy Land Management

This major focuses on energy land management and how it relates to energy development with an emphasis on the management, coordination, and development of surface and mineral interests. This program provides a strong foundation in the key aspects of energy land management and produces trained professionals that are critically needed in the energy and regulatory sectors. Upon completion of this program, students will understand how energy lands are managed and associated energy resources can be developed and used for maximum social, economic, and environmentally responsible benefit. Students will develop a detailed knowledge related to the identification and leasing of mineral estates; be proficient in drilling site development, transportation planning, pipeline development, and route planning; will have a thorough knowledge of post-processing planning and infrastructure development; and comprehend the ethical, regulatory, and environmental framework in which they must operate. Major Learning Goals This new B.S. degree program and major will provide undergraduate students a knowledge-based framework that will develop skill sets essential to a successful career in Energy Land Management. Upon graduation from this degree program and major, students will be able to: Demonstrate the role of professional energy land managers in energy development Compare and contrast land management activities associated with multiple energy production systems Demonstrate the impacts of energy development on local communities and be able to develop plans that minimize impacts Explain the role of media in the energy business, the necessity of appropriate communication in crisis situations, and the concept of non-technical risks associated with energy development Demonstrate a complete knowledge of ethics and standards of practices in association with energy development and an understanding of common negotiating strategies Interpret the types of interests in energy resource ownership including the ability to recognize the differences between mineral and surface estates, the ability to interpret mineral and surface deeds, and the ability to understand the key elements of energy-related leases Recognize the basic process of permitting of energy development at both the State and Federal level, and be able to manage the complexities of energy land development through the use of lease and production management software Apply their collective experience and knowledge gained through the Energy Land Management Curriculum as a professional energy land manager upon graduation. Careers Professional Land man Law school Coordinating field exploration activities Negotiating leases and contracts Serving as a liaison between lease owners and exploration companies Ensuring community and environmental quality during energy development