The College of Natural Resources at UC Berkeley was established in 1868 as the College of Agriculture, making it one of the oldest colleges at the university. It was renamed the College of Natural Resources in 1974 to better reflect its expanded mission beyond agriculture to encompass forestry, conservation, environmental science, and sustainable resource management. The college has been at the forefront of addressing critical environmental challenges, from climate change to biodiversity conservation, for over 150 years.
The College of Natural Resources is internationally recognized for its groundbreaking research and innovative academic programs that integrate biology, economics, policy, and social sciences to solve complex environmental problems. It houses world-renowned departments including Environmental Science, Policy and Management; Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology; and Plant and Microbial Biology. The college is home to leading research centers such as the Berkeley Food Institute and the Center for Forestry, and its faculty and alumni have made significant contributions to sustainable agriculture, wildlife conservation, and environmental policy worldwide.
Students in CNR experience a close-knit academic community within the larger UC Berkeley campus, with smaller class sizes and direct access to faculty mentors. The college emphasizes hands-on learning through field stations, research opportunities, and community engagement projects. CNR students are passionate about environmental stewardship and social justice, creating a collaborative culture focused on using science to create positive change. The college's location in the San Francisco Bay Area provides unique access to diverse ecosystems, leading environmental organizations, and sustainability-focused companies.
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Berkeley, California |
| Founded | 1868 |
| Total students | 45,057 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 20:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 11% |
| Graduation rate | 92% |
| Average starting salary | $73,000 |
| In-state tuition | $14,312 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $44,066 |
| Room & board | $20,982 |
| Average financial aid | $23,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 65% |
| SAT range | 1330-1530 |
| ACT range | 31-35 |
| Average GPA | 3.90 |
| Regular deadline | November 30 |
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.