Management and Restoration of Aquatic Ecosystems

Utah State University is the only university in the state with a college devoted to the study of natural resources, and the management and restoration of aquatic ecosystems degree is unique in that it allows students the opportunity to integrate physics, chemistry, and biology to understand watershed systems. Clean and adequate water supplies and wetlands are essential elements of human society, and understanding the interactions between water and the rest of the world is necessary to the management of all ecosystems.

Ranked third nationally in research productivity in aquatic sciences, the department deploys experiential learning opportunities through field trips to local rivers, streams, and lakes where students can gain hands-on experience within the environments they study. Watershed scientists work throughout the nation, as well as in other developed and developing countries, with the goal of understanding, managing, and restoring water supplies, water quality, and ecosystem health.

Emphases:

• Aquatic Habitats:  
• Water Quality:  
• Hydrology and Water Resources:  
• Geomorphology:  
• Human Dimensions:  

Bachelor Degree Minimum Requirements

Admission to USU is test optional for Spring 2022, Summer 2022, and Fall 2022. ACT/SAT test scores will still be considered if submitted.

• 2.8-4.0 GPA - Admitted in Good Standing
  • Students with less than a 2.8 high school GPA may still be admitted in good standing based upon the combination of their GPA and ACT/SAT score. See if you qualify.
• 2.79 GPA & below - Considered for Earned Admission path.

Associate Degree Minimum Requirements

Most USU Eastern and USU Blanding Associates Degrees and Certificates are open enrollment and do not require a minimum high school GPA or ACT/SAT score.

Recommended High School Prep Work

• 4 years of English
• 4 years of Math (One class beyond math 3)
• 3.5 years of Social Science
• 3 years of Lab-Based Science (one each: biology, chemistry, and physics)
• 2 years of a world language (same language, taken progressively during grades 9-12)

With a degree in management and restoration of aquatic ecosystems, students may pursue the following careers:

• Watershed, stream, or wetland restoration specialist
• Fish or bird habitat designer or manager
• Wetland manager Watershed manager
• Water quality specialist
• Hydrologist/geomorphologist
• Field technician - hydrologic, geomorphic, fisheries, invertebrate
• GIS Technician/Geospatial analyst
• Research scientist
• Conduct field research and analyses for private consulting firms
• Managing watersheds or wetlands for nonprofit organizations, conservation districts, state agencies or EPA
• Environmental scientist
• Fishery biologist

Career Services provides counseling and information on hundreds of job and internship opportunities and even helps students apply and interview.