International Programs 

International Resource Management Minor

Think Globally -  Act Locally

Purpose:

Environmental issues continue to persist throughout the world, for example:

  • Deforestation of the tropical forests in Central and South America

  • Desertification and famine in Africa

  • Ecotourism and fair trade issues

  • Environmental and social impacts of global warming across the world

These are only a few of the many concerns that exist across the globe. At UWSP, you receive training to address these and other worldwide concerns that you can use in preparation for possible overseas employement and volunteeropportunities.

Who May Participate?

  • CNR majors will find this minor especially appealing because of the natural resource basis.

  • Other majors, such as Sociology, Anthropology, Political Science, and Foreign Language may also be interested in this minor due to the multidisciplinary aspects of IRM.

Course of Study:

For CNR majors, the minor consists of a minimum of 21 credits and for non-majors a minimum of 31 credits. This minor requires foreign language training in conjunction with a set of relevant courses in international resource management, geography, economics, and sociology or anthropology. Also included is completion of one of the following: environmental seminar, or study abroad approved by the IRM advisor. Majors outside of the College of Natural Resources are required to take introductory coursework in natural resources to provide them with the fundamental concepts of environmental study and management.

Language ability will be a significant factor in international opportunities. For example, French language experience enables work in West Africa, German in Central Europe, and Spanish in Central and South America. The International Program office can advise what language training is needed for your desired location of study.

Career Opportunities:

Opportunities ranging from volunteer positions, internships, to temporary and permanent employment exist overseas and in the United States. The internships and volunteer positions will offer the initial experience needed to place in full-time jobs. Positions with consulting firms, resource-related industries, governmental and nongovernmental agencies also provide employment.

For more ideas about international opportunites, a random sample of websites are listed below. It is also recommended that you do a web search on your own.

For More Information:

IRM Advisor: Dr. Holly Petrillo, Assistant Professor of Forestry, College of Natural Resources, TNR 363 , email: hpetrill@uwsp.edu

Alternate contact: Bobbi Kubish, College of Natural Resources International Programs and Recruitment Coordinator,
TNR 192, tel #: (715) 346-3831, email: bkubish@uwsp.edu