As the world continues to evolve, people are becoming more and more interested in the natural beauty that surrounds them. This has led many to pursue careers in natural resource recreation and tourism, a field that encompasses everything from environmental management to outdoor activities.

But where should aspiring professionals go to get the best education and hands-on experience? Here are some of the best colleges and universities in the world for natural resource recreation and tourism:

1. Colorado State University – Fort Collins, Colorado

Colorado State University offers unique programs in natural resource tourism, natural resources recreation, and tourism. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Tourism, Parks, and Recreation Management, which prepares them for roles such as park ranger, tourism manager, and more.

2. University of British Columbia – Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

The University of British Columbia is home to the faculty of forestry, which offers a bachelor’s degree in forest resource management, a master’s program in forestry, and a Ph.D. program in forestry.

3. University of Utah – Salt Lake City, Utah
The University of Utah is known for its Parks, Recreation, and Tourism program, which focuses on outdoor recreation management, tourism, and parks and protected areas. Students can choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation and Tourism, a Master of Science in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, or a Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism.

4. University of Montana – Missoula, Montana

The University of Montana’s Wallace Stegner Center for Land, Resources, and the Environment offers a variety of programs in environmental law and natural resource management.

5. University of Maine – Orono, Maine

The University of Maine’s School of Forest Resources offers a Bachelor of Science in forest management, as well as Master of Science and Ph.D. programs in forest resources.

6. University of Oregon – Eugene, Oregon

The University of Oregon’s Department of Planning, Public Policy, and Management offers a Bachelor of Science in recreation and tourism management, which provides students with an understanding of natural resource management and sustainable tourism practices.

7. University of Helsinki – Helsinki, Finland

The University of Helsinki’s Faculty of Forestry offers a Master of Science in Environmental Change and Global Sustainability with a focus on management of natural resources.

8. University of Alberta – Alberta, Canada

The University of Alberta’s Faculty of Agriculture, Life, and Environmental Science offers a Bachelor of Science in Conservation Biology and a Master of Science in Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology.

9. Colorado School of Mines – Golden, Colorado

The Colorado School of Mines offers a Bachelor of Science in environmental science and engineering, which prepares students for careers in environmental protection, natural resource management, and more.

10. Cornell University – Ithaca, New York

Cornell University’s Department of Natural Resources offers a Bachelor of Science in natural resources, as well as Master of Science and Ph.D. programs in natural resources management.

When it comes to achieving a fulfilling career in natural resource recreation and tourism, these top colleges and universities around the world offer a solid education, networking opportunities, and practical experience that can help make your aspirations a reality.