Rocky landscapes, woodland areas, and waterways—these are just a few of the resources the earth provides. Though we don’t create them, we recreate them into products that enrich our lives.

Why study natural resources at Sewanee?

Studying natural resources and the environment at Sewanee means you’ll get a degree that integrates coursework in both forestry and geology. You’ll study renewable and non-renewable resources, viewing them through both a managerial and a restorative lens. With biodiversity as your backdrop, you’ll explore some of the most precious resources our earth has to offer.

You will develop a spectrum of knowledge as a natural resources major. From religious critiques on consumerism to the sedimentary geology of the Cumberland Plateau, no consideration will be left undiscussed. The research potential on the Mountain is as eclectic as the integrated nature of the coursework surrounding it.

First Destinations: Natural Resources majors

Sewanee graduates secure positions in a variety of fields. Some you would expect, others are a bit of a surprise. Sewanee prepares you for your profession and your passion. Below is a sampling of recent graduates' first jobs.

  • Scientist, Olsson Associates, Loveland, Colorado.
  • Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Strike Team Manager, Tennessee Forestry Division, Chattanooga, Tennessee.
  • Natural Resources Technician, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Snowhill, Maryland.
  • Chemist, Clean Harbors, Chattanooga, Tennessee.
  • Firefighter, Wildland Restoration International, Duxbury, Massachusetts.
GRADUATE SCHOOL & PRE-PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS: Natural Resources MAJORS

Sewanee graduates enjoy extraordinary acceptance rates to top graduate and pre-professional programs–about 95 percent to law school and over 85 percent to medical school. Below is a sampling of where Sewanee grads continue their education.

  • Master's in landscape architecture, Clemson University.
  • Master's in forestry, Mississippi State University.
  • Master's in engineering geology, Newcastle University.

A Sampling of Courses

Archaeology of the Cumberland Plateau
Anthropology

This course examines the cultural history of the Cumberland Plateau through anthropological archaeology. Considering one of the most biologically diverse regions on earth, the class investigates the Plateau's rich prehistoric and historic archaeological record, which spans at least 12,000 years. Students also participate in site visits and field surveys to explore both the Native American and European American record left as rock art, as well as that found in open habitation, cave, and rockshelter sites.

ANTH 316
Soils Lab
Forestry

A study of soils as they relate to land use, bedrock and geomorphology, site quality, and vegetation processes. Emphasizes field interpretation of soils as one component of terrestrial ecosystems.

FORS 303
Dendrology
Forestry

This course explores the identification, biology, and morphology of woody plants. Primary focus is on the ecophysiological characteristics of species and their roles in forest succession, species distribution across the landscape, and responses to disturbance and environmental stress. Includes field identification of native trees and shrubs of the Eastern United States, with special emphasis on the Cumberland Plateau and the Southeast. Lecture, laboratory, and weekend field trips.

FORS 211
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Natural Resources & the Environment

Programs of Study & Related Programs

Requirements for the Major in Natural Resources & the Environment 

Requirements for the Minor in Environmental Studies | Website

Requirements for the Major in Environment & Sustainability | Website

Requirements for the Major in Environmental Arts & Humanities | Website

Requirements for the Major & Minor in Geology | Website

Requirements for the Major & Minor in Forestry | Website

Requirements for the Minor in Religion & Environment | Website

Meet some professors

Martin Knoll
mknoll@sewanee.edu

Martin Knoll earned a B.A. at the University of the South, an M.S. at Vanderbilt University, and a Ph.D. at the University of Texas, El Paso. His areas of expertise include paleontology, paleoecology, hydrology, geoarchaeology of the Cumberland Plateau, and climbing.

Professor of Geology
Karen Kuers
kkuers@sewanee.edu

Karen Kuers is the coordinator of a 50-acre instrumented watershed (Split Creek) located on the Domain of the University of the South. The project began with her participation in a multi-college research project entitled "Collaboration Through Appalachian Watershed Studies. She teaches forestry, dendrology, silviculture, urban forestry management, watershed measurements, and more.

Professor of Forestry
C. Ken Smith
ksmith@sewanee.edu

Ken Smith currently teaches forestry and environmental studies classes, supervises independent research with students, conducts other research related to human impacts on soils, and conducts forest management activities on University property including the use of forest harvesting and prescribed fire (oak and shortleaf pine restoration). He also served as University forester for 12 years. He worked on 20 thinning or harvest units and, as a Tennessee certified burn manager, conducted more than 40 prescribed fires on the property.

PROFESSOR AND ASSISTANT DEAN OF THE ENVIRONMENT
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Contact

Sarah C. Sherwood
Associate Professor and University Archaeologist

sherwood@sewanee.edu

Snowden Hall 220, Ext. 3396

C. Ken Smith
Professor and Assistant Dean of the Environment

ksmith@sewanee.edu

Cleveland Annex 101A, Snowden Hall 209, Ext. 3219

The Domain: An Immersive Experience

Integrated Program in the Environment
6 Majors, 6 Minors, 13,000 Acres

Sewanee's Integrated Program in the Environment is one of the premier collections of environmental offerings in the country. A working farm, a 13,000-acre forest, and well-funded internships offer opportunities to apply your classroom learning. An expansive curriculum—including natural and social sciences as well as the humanities and fine arts—offers students multiple pathways for gaining an understanding of the ecological complexity and wonder of the earth we inhabit.

Explore Your Options
Stewardship & Sustainability
Hands-on Experience

The Office of Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability offers students myriad opportunities to engage with the outdoors. Whether your passions are natural resources management, food production, animal care, field research, or sustainability, there's a place for you to get your hands dirty on the Domain!

Get Involved
The University Farm
Where Growth Happens

The University Farm offers students a transformative experience through the immersive and intimate practice of restorative agriculture. At the farm you'll find many opportunities to enhance your education and connect with the history of agriculture. And if you’re lucky, there will be some baby goats around during finals.

Yes, I love baby goats