Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
The Environmental and Natural Resource Economics Program focuses on environmental and natural resource economics policy. Coursework prepares students for careers at all levels of government and in private industry. A special feature of the program is the opportunity to explore the interdisciplinary nature of environmental problems and links between natural resource and economic development issues.
Program Admission and Curriculum
Students who meet University admission requirements may be accepted directly into the Davis College as Environmental and Natural Resource Economics majors. To earn a bachelor’s, all students must complete 128 credit hours including the General Education Curriculum required by the University.
Much of the program’s coursework can be planned around the special interests of the student. Students will take courses in economics, business, mathematics, computer science and applied science.
Examples of core courses include but are not limited to agricultural and natural recourse law, applied demand analysis, environmental and resource economics, and agriculture, environmental and resource policy. In addition, restricted electives must be approved by an adviser, include at least four courses from the college with at least one course in agronomy and one in plant sciences, and a capstone experience.
It is recommended that students who plan on continuing their education at the graduate level take upper level economics courses in intermediate microeconomic theory, mathematical economics and econometrics. Complete course listings and descriptions can be found in the current WVU Undergraduate Catalog.
Employment Opportunities
Graduates of the program may find employment with the federal and state agencies involved in environmental, natural resource and agricultural issues. There are also many opportunities with private consulting companies and nonprofit environmental organizations. Entry-level salaries for students with a bachelor’s degree range from $30,000 to $40,000 with opportunities for advancement.
