Tropical Forestry
The Master of Science in Tropical Forestry at Technische Universität Dresden is an internationally oriented graduate program designed for students aiming to manage and conserve tropical forest ecosystems sustainably. Offered as a full-time program over four semesters, the curriculum combines ecological, socio-economic, and management aspects of forestry with a strong international perspective. The program is taught entirely in English and admits students exclusively in the winter semester.
Students explore topics such as forest ecology, biodiversity, climate protection, sustainable forest management, urban forestry, and development policy. Partnering with renowned institutions like AgroParisTech, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Università degli studi di Padova, and Københavns Universitet, the program offers students practical experience, international networking opportunities, and interdisciplinary training. Graduates are prepared for careers in sustainable forest management, environmental protection, conservation organizations, research, and international development projects.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Dresden / Tharandt
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Tropical Forestry, Forest Science, Sustainability, Environmental Protection, Nature Conservation, Development Co-operation
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Tropical Forestry
- Introduction to Forest Ecology and Biodiversity
- Principles of Sustainable Forest Management
- Basics of Development Policy and Environmental Protection
- Forest Data Collection and Analysis
Semester 2 – Applied Management and Policy
- Climate Protection and Urban Forest Management
- Socio-economic Aspects of Tropical Forestry
- Forest Resource Management Techniques
- Research Project I
Semester 3 – Advanced Topics and Field Practice
- Tropical Forest Conservation and Restoration
- Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services
- International Development and Forest Policy
- Research Project II / Field Work
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
- Independent Research Thesis
- Applied Forest Management Project
- Scientific Presentation and Defense
- Preparation for Professional or Academic Career
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master of Science in Tropical Forestry at Technische Universität Dresden are prepared for a wide range of professional roles in sustainable forest management, conservation, and international development. Career paths include forest manager, biodiversity and ecosystem consultant, climate change analyst, environmental policy advisor, and project manager for NGOs, governmental organizations, or international development agencies. Graduates gain the skills to work in tropical and subtropical regions, addressing challenges related to climate protection, natural resource management, and sustainable development.
Why Choose This Program
The M.Sc. in Tropical Forestry at Technische Universität Dresden offers a unique combination of ecological, socio-economic, and management training for tropical forests. The program emphasizes sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and climate protection while providing practical skills in forest management, field research, and data analysis. Students benefit from a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach that integrates theory with real-world applications.
Its international orientation and partnerships with renowned institutions such as AgroParisTech, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Università degli studi di Padova, and Københavns Universitet give students the opportunity to gain global perspectives and network with experts in forestry, environmental protection, and development cooperation. Graduates leave prepared for impactful careers in research, conservation, policy-making, and sustainable resource management worldwide.
Contact Information
Technische Universität Dresden – Student Advisory Service
Fritz-Foerster-Bau, Mommsenstr. 6
01069 Dresden, Germany
Tel: +49 351 463-42000
Fax: –
Email: studienberatung@tu-dresden.de
Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Department of Forestry – Programme Contact
Cotta-Bau (COT), Pienner Str. 7, 01737 Tharandt, Germany
Tel: +49 35203 38-31822
Email: tropen@forst.tu-dresden.de
Contact Person: Dr. Eckhard Auch
International Office – TU Dresden
Fritz-Foerster-Bau, Mommsenstr. 6
01069 Dresden, Germany
Tel: +49 351 463-42000
Fax: –
Email: studium.international@tu-dresden.de
