How to become a Forester

Undergraduate study

Southern Cross University, Lismore NSW and at Mt Gambier S.A., offers a four year undergraduate course (Bachelor of Forest Science and Management). Graduates of this degree develop skills and understanding of the multi-faceted aspects of sustainable resource management. They have the opportunity to specialise in small or large scale plantations, restoration forestry, provision of environmental services, wood utilisation, forest inventory and planning, or international forestry. There are opportunities for the degree to be taken externally, although with some short periods of residence to undertake practical exercises. Outstanding students may continue for a fifth year to the degree of Bachelor of Forest Science and Management with Honours.

Australian National University, Canberra ACT offers a four year Bachelor of Science (Forestry) degree (Course currently under review). This degree offers students a challenging education in forest science and forest resource management with wide application in environmental science and resource management. The curriculum is based on knowledge of the basic physical and biological sciences relevant to forest ecosystems, of the applied sciences and technologies which support sustainable forest management and of their application in the context of the political, economic and social dimensions of resource use.

Postgraduate study

Several universities are participating in the National Forestry Masters Program. The program offers graduate students from any background access to teaching, field and industry experience and research opportunities in forestry across Australia.

Students enrol in degrees or professional development programs at one of the 5 partner universities and complete the core requirements of that university. Participating universities are the Australian National University, Southern Cross University, University of Melbourne, University of Queensland and University of Tasmania.

Southern Cross University offers several options for graduate students. Those with a suitable three-year degree may enrol in the Graduate Diploma of Forest Science and Management. This requires the equivalent of one year of full time study, leading to a qualification equivalent to the normal four-year undergraduate degree in forestry. The University offers also a degree in Master of Forest Science and Management, aimed at professional development in areas of interest to the student; this may be undertaken in conjunction with elements of the National Forestry Masters Program. The University offers also Master of Science (by research) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs for suitably qualified applicants of high ability.