The Department of Human Dimensions of Natural Resources (HDNR) offers a research-based graduate program that is designed to educate and develop professionals in social science aspects of natural resources issues. The program develops professionals who will work and become leaders in the field both through research and practice. The Master of Science degree generally takes two years to complete.

We conduct research in the area of Human Dimensions of Natural Resources (HDNR) and prepare students for careers in conservation leadership and tourism. This area of study focuses on understanding and attending to the needs and values of humans, human society, and culture as they relate to the natural environment. HDNR has more than 90 years of collaborative research in parks and protected areas and contributes to informed decision making while conveying a broad based understanding of the way humans value, use and depend on the natural environment. HDNR is one of the few programs in the United States that offers a comprehensive bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral program.