The Master of Arts in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (MA(NRES)) program offered at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the social dimensions of human-environment interactions, particularly focusing on community-based or regional perspectives. The degree is unique in its emphasis on human perspectives related to historical and contemporary resource and environmental issues, encouraging the exploration of social, cultural, ethical, economic, and political aspects of resource and land use within northern ecosystems.

Students enrolled in the MA(NRES) program have the opportunity to specialize in one of three areas of study: Environmental Studies, Geography, or Outdoor Recreation, Conservation, and Tourism. The curriculum includes core courses, a methods course, elective courses, and a thesis component, totaling 25 credit hours. The core courses provide a foundational understanding of multi-faceted resource and environmental issues, while the elective courses allow students to delve deeper into their specific areas of interest.

Key topics covered in the program include environmental conservation, sustainable resource management, community-based approaches to environmental issues, human-environment interactions, land use planning, and environmental policy. Students gain essential skills such as research methodology, critical analysis, communication, project management, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing them for careers in academia, research, government, non-profit organizations, consulting, and more.

The target audience for this program includes individuals with a strong interest in environmental conservation, natural resource management, sustainable development, social sciences, geography, outdoor recreation, tourism, and related fields. Prospective students are typically required to have an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline, such as environmental studies, geography, sociology, economics, political science, psychology, or a related field. Additionally, a background in research methods, environmental science, or social sciences is beneficial for successfully navigating the coursework and thesis requirements of the program.

Overall, the MA(NRES) program at UNBC offers a rigorous and interdisciplinary approach to studying the complex interactions between humans and the environment, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to address pressing environmental challenges and contribute meaningfully to the field of conservation and environmental science. The program's faculty members, including renowned professors and researchers in various disciplines, provide mentorship and guidance to students throughout their academic journey, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating learning environment. Graduates emerge from the program with a deep understanding of environmental issues, a strong research background, and the ability to make informed decisions and contribute positively to sustainable resource management and environmental stewardship.