Environmental Science and Natural Resource Journalism The University of Montana

Overview

The Environmental Science and Natural Resource Journalism programme at The University of Montana offers an advanced, skills-based curriculum for aspiring media professionals. Students engage in deep field reporting to address complex issues affecting society and the global environment through various multimedia platforms.

This degree is specifically tailored for applicants who already hold undergraduate qualifications in journalism, earth sciences, or natural resource management. The university also welcomes professionals with experience in environmental non-profit organisations or the resource industry who seek to refine their communication expertise.

Participants in the programme produce media that matters, with work frequently appearing in major international publications and national radio broadcasts.

Why Environmental Science and Natural Resource Journalism at The University of Montana?

The University of Montana provides a unique learning environment often described as a premier outdoor laboratory. Students benefit from the institution's cutting-edge research in fields such as wildlife biology, fire management, and environmental health, which serves as a foundation for their reporting.

A distinctive feature of the school is the Crown Reporting Project, which supports students as they investigate stories across Northwest Montana and Canada. This initiative allows emerging journalists to work alongside veteran mentors to explore landscape-level conservation and community climate resilience.

The faculty consists of professionals with decades of experience and deep ties to both the media and natural resource sectors. This ensures that students receive personal attention and build valuable industry connections that are essential for a successful career in specialised journalism.

Facilities and partnerships at the university facilitate collaborative learning, such as the Story Lab course. This specific module pairs journalists with scientists to improve the communication of complex news, bridging the gap between technical research and public understanding.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 38750 per year
• National fee: USD 38750 per year
• Local fee: USD 11158 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Story Lab
• Crown Reporting Project
• Video
• Podcasting
• Design
• Documentary
• Social Media
• Storytelling
• Reporting

Careers with Environmental Science and Natural Resource Journalism

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for diverse roles within the modern media landscape. Many alumni secure positions as science reporters, environmental journalists, and multimedia content creators for prestigious news outlets and international magazines.

Beyond traditional newsrooms, the skills gained at The University of Montana allow graduates to work with environmental non-profits and conservation organisations. They often find employment in roles involving public relations, science communication, and digital strategy for natural resource industries.

The programme's emphasis on multi-platform storytelling ensures that graduates can adapt to various sectors, including public radio and digital publishing. Their ability to translate complex scientific data into compelling narratives makes them highly sought after in the global job market.