College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences
At the College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences (CEFNS), we lead students to careers that not only advance a sustainable future–they protect the biodiversity of today. Dig into fascinating research topics and get lost in the forest, in the stars, in the lab, in what’s possible.
Why students choose CEFNS
#1
forestry school in Arizona
#5 in Physical Sciences bachelor’s degrees for Native American
#7
Forestry School in the U.S.
Develop skills for tomorrow
The path to a successful career
STEM careers are in high demand, and NAU’s College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences (CEFNS) prepares you to succeed in this field. CEFNS students develop essential skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and the ability to learn from challenges. With small classes, dedicated faculty, and hands-on research opportunities, you’ll explore how science and technology play a key role in addressing today’s challenges.
CEFNS offers undergraduate and graduate programs in biology, chemistry, environmental sciences, mathematics, computer science, forestry, and more. Through internships, fieldwork, and research with industry and academic partners, students gain valuable experience that prepares them for a wide range of career paths.
CEFNS offers an exceptional undergraduate education with opportunities for immersive, real-world experiences across a range of disciplines. The Astronomy & Planetary Science program offers experiential learning with top-notch facilities, while the Department of Mathematics & Statistics emphasizes problem-solving and logical thinking in fields like mathematics, statistics, and data science. The School of Forestry fosters a collaborative environment focused on solving critical forest and ecosystem challenges, while the Applied Physics & Materials Science program boasts a high level of faculty engagement, enhancing student success. The School of Earth & Sustainability offers personalized guidance and practical experience for students tackling societal issues. Chemistry students benefit from exceptional faculty mentorship and opportunities beyond the classroom.
Real experience. real impact.
Research that matters. As a top-tier R1 research institution, NAU offers extensive research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. At CEFNS, you’ll work side-by-side with faculty who are actively engaged in research and gain hands-on experience.
Real world learning. CEFNS students don’t just study science they do science. You’ll apply what you learn in the lab and in the field, solving real-world challenges with your professors and external research partners.
Career-ready support. In collaboration with NAU’s Career Development office, the CEFNS career development team helps you discover your path. While many students go into public sector jobs, there are also plenty of opportunities in business and industry. More and more students are using their STEM background in new ways, and a CEFNS education can open those doors for you too.
Take the next step
College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences featured degrees
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BS in Astronomy -
BS in Biology -
BS in Biomedical Science -
BS in Chemistry -
BS in Chemistry with Chemistry Advanced emphasis -
BS in Chemistry with Forensics & Criminalistics emphasis -
BS in Chemistry with Health Preprofessional emphasis -
BS in Chemistry - American Chemical Society -
BS in Chemistry - American Chemical Society with Biochemistry - Certified by the American Chemical Society emphasis -
BS in Data Science
School of Earth and Sustainability
- BS in Environmental Sciences with Environmental Communication emphasis
- BS in Environmental Sciences with Environmental Management emphasis
- BS in Environmental Sciences
- BS in Environmental Sciences with Environmental Geology emphasis
- BS in Environmental Sciences with Applied Statistics emphasis
- BS in Environmental Sciences with Environmental Administration and Policy emphasis
- BS in Environmental Sciences with Biology emphasis
- BS in Environmental Sciences with Chemistry emphasis
- BS in Environmental Sciences with Climate emphasis
- BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies
- BS in Environmental and Sustainability Studies
- BS in Geology
- BSED in Secondary Education - Earth Science
- BSED in Secondary Education - General Science
- MS in Climate Science and Solutions
- MS in Environmental Sciences and Policy
- MS in Environmental Sciences and Policy with Science and Policy emphasis
- MS in Environmental Sciences and Policy with Paleoenvironmental Sciences emphasis
- MS in Geology
- PHD in Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability
- PHD in Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability with Climate and Environmental Change emphasis
- PHD in Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability with Earth Systems emphasis
- PHD in Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability with Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology emphasis
- PHD in Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability with Engineering Sustainable Systems emphasis
- PHD in Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability with Environment and Society emphasis
Department of Biological Sciences
- BS in Biology
- BS in Biomedical Science
- BS in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
- BS in Exercise Physiology
- BS in Microbiology
- BSED in Secondary Education - Biology
- MS in Biology
- MS in Biology with Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology emphasis
- PHD in Biology
- PHD in Biology with Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology emphasis
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
- BS in Chemistry
- BS in Chemistry with Chemistry Advanced emphasis
- BS in Chemistry with Forensics & Criminalistics emphasis
- BS in Chemistry with Health Preprofessional emphasis
- BS in Chemistry - American Chemical Society
- BS in Chemistry - American Chemical Society with Comprehensive - Certified by the American Chemical Society emphasis
- BS in Chemistry - American Chemical Society with Biochemistry - Certified by the American Chemical Society emphasis
- BSED in Secondary Education - Chemistry
- MS in Chemistry
Department of Applied Physics & Materials Science
- BS in Physics
- BS in Physics and Astrophysics
- BSED in Secondary Education - Physics
- MS in Applied Physics
- MS in Materials Science
- PHD in Applied Physics and Materials Science
- PHD in Applied Physics and Materials Science with Applied Physics emphasis
- PHD in Applied Physics and Materials Science with Materials Science emphasis
Forestry
Department of Mathematics and Statistics
Department of Astronomy and Planetary Science
I wanted to find a college that would allow me to get out of my comfort zone and to explore new horizons. I had NAU on my mind because it’s known for making a difference in the biological and environmental sciences, something that is meaningful to me.
Ready to apply?
Applying to college is a big step—but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you're exploring programs or preparing your application, our team is here to guide you. At CEFNS, you’ll find a welcoming environment, personalized support, and a clear path toward your future in science and technology.
Support the students shaping the future
Your gift to the College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences helps students turn their passion for science into meaningful careers. By supporting scholarships, research, and hands-on learning, you empower tomorrow’s environmental leaders, innovators, and changemakers.