Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Forestry] From Michigan State University

Foresters are specialized environmental scientists who address societal issues such as carbon sequestration, biofuel production, wood products manufacturing, habitat management, recreational lands management, and the development of a sustainable, biologically based economy.

Our internationally renowned faculty guide students through active learning, preparing them to be leaders and stewards in sustainable forest management. The forestry major is accredited by the Society of American Foresters.

“How can forest ecosystems and all their recognized values be sustained in the modern world?” This is a fundamental question for the 21st century, as forest ecosystems are facing grave threats all over the world, including large-scale deforestation, forest degradation, invasive pests and pathogens, and global climate change. In the face of these threats, forestry professionals have a great responsibility and opportunity to maintain, restore and enhance the sustainability of forest ecosystems.

Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science Degree in Forestry program develop an in-depth understanding of the natural and social sciences in order to manage forest ecosystems. Through hands-on laboratory experiences and field studies, students learn how to manage forests for a wide range of goals and acquire the skills to evaluate and ensure the ecological, economic, and social sustainability of forests. They place emphasis on development of analytical and communications skills necessary to create a positive exchange of ideas between forestry professionals and non-technical audiences. Students who graduate from this program will possess the professional training to enable them to contribute significantly to resolution of forest-centered environmental and resource problems.

Forest professionals are employed in a variety of settings. Many choose careers with public land management agencies, such as the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service, the National Park Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service, the Soil Conservation Service, or state departments of natural resources. Conservation organizations, such as the Wilderness Society and the Nature Conservancy, also hire forestry professionals.

Forestry professionals are in high demand in the forest products industry, including in sustainable production of environmentally responsible wood products and management of bio-energy plantations. Increasingly, forestry expertise is required to combat climate change through work on forest-based climate mitigation projects, often in international settings. Forest professionals work with the Peace Corps and other international development organizations in reforestation projects. There are also rewarding careers for forestry professionals in urban and suburban settings, with municipal forestry organizations or with private tree and shrub-care companies in promoting green, sustainable, and livable environments.

The high quality education afforded by the bachelor’s degree provides the knowledge and skills needed for the career opportunities listed above, and many others, as well as the rigorous background needed for graduate studies in forestry and related fields, including ecology, soil science, environmental science, geography, economics, social science, public policy, and law.