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The Master of Science in Forestry at the University of Wisconsin is a two-year full-time program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills to manage and conserve forest ecosystems. The curriculum integrates core forestry principles with specialized courses in forest management, ecology, wildlife conservation, and sustainable land use practices. Students will learn how to apply scientific research to address environmental challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation, while developing practical skills in forest inventory, land restoration, and resource management. Through a combination of fieldwork, lab-based research, and theoretical coursework, students gain the expertise needed to make informed decisions about land stewardship, conservation policies, and natural resource management.
The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement, offering students opportunities to work on projects that integrate forestry with other environmental sciences, policy development, and community development. Students benefit from faculty expertise in areas such as forest ecology, silviculture, urban forestry, and ecosystem services, while gaining hands-on experience in the field through internships and research projects. Upon completion, graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in forest management, environmental conservation, and land policy, or to further their academic studies in forestry and related fields.
Semester 1 – Foundations of Forestry and Ecology
• Introduction to Forestry and Natural Resources
• Forest Ecology and Biodiversity
• Forest Inventory and Measurement Techniques
• Research Methods in Forest Science
Semester 2 – Forest Management and Conservation Strategies
• Silviculture and Forest Regeneration
• Forest Soils and Watershed Management
• Wildlife Habitat and Management
• Climate Change and Forest Ecosystem Services
Semester 3 – Advanced Forestry Practices and Research
• Advanced Forest Management Techniques
• Ecological Restoration and Land Rehabilitation
• Elective Modules in Urban Forestry, Agroforestry, or Carbon Management
• Independent Research Project in Forestry
Semester 4 – Capstone and Professional Development
• Independent Research Thesis or Project
• Environmental Policy and Natural Resource Management
• Professional Writing and Communication for Forestry
• Seminar in Forestry and Conservation Science
Graduates of the Master of Science in Forestry program are prepared for careers in forest management, environmental consulting, and policy development. Many work as forest managers, conservation scientists, wildlife managers, land restoration experts, or environmental consultants, contributing to the sustainable management of forest ecosystems. Graduates also find opportunities in governmental agencies, NGOs, and private industries involved in natural resource management, timber production, or ecosystem restoration. The program’s emphasis on practical skills, research, and policy analysis ensures that students are well-equipped to lead in the rapidly changing field of forestry. Additionally, graduates can pursue doctoral studies in forestry, environmental science, or related fields.
The Master of Science in Forestry offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary education in forest management, conservation, and ecology. The program emphasizes sustainable forestry practices, land conservation, and biodiversity protection, ensuring graduates are equipped to tackle critical challenges in forest and environmental management. With a strong emphasis on field-based learning, internships, and research projects, students gain hands-on experience and develop the skills necessary to make meaningful contributions to forestry and conservation efforts. Faculty expertise, combined with access to advanced research facilities and field study opportunities, ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for leadership roles in forestry or environmental conservation. Whether working in government, industry, or academia, graduates leave the program with the expertise and knowledge to contribute to the sustainable future of the world’s forests.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA