Forestry and Environmental Management degrees (TRANSFOR-M)

Program Overview

---

The Forestry and Environmental Management degrees (TRANSFOR-M) program is a dual master's degree spanning two years, offering specialized knowledge and practical skills in forestry, environmental management, and related fields. Students spend their first year at Bangor University, UK, and their second year at one of the partner universities in Canada or Europe. The program emphasizes international collaboration, cross-cultural communication, and practical training, preparing graduates for successful careers in various sectors, including forestry research, conservation, resource management, and sustainable development.

Program Outline

---

Degree Overview:

---

This program offers a dual master's degree in forestry and environmental management, spanning two years of study.

Students spend their first year at Bangor University, followed by their second year at one of the partner universities located in Canada.

---

Objectives:

• Equip students with specialized knowledge and practical skills in forestry, environmental management, and related fields.
• Prepare graduates for successful careers in various sectors, including forestry research, conservation, resource management, and sustainable development.
• Foster international collaboration and exchange between students and faculty from different countries and academic institutions.
• Promote responsible forest management practices, environmental stewardship, and sustainability awareness.

---

Program Structure:

The TRANSFOR-M consortium comprises eight universities, including Bangor University in the UK, three universities in Canada, and four in European Union member states. Students select one of the consortium universities as their "home" institution and another as their "host" university in the partner country.

---

Participating Universities:

• Bangor University, UK
• University of Eastern Finland, Finland
• University of Padova, Italy
• University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
• Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Sweden
• Lakehead University, Canada
• University of Alberta, Canada
• University of British Columbia, Canada

---

Bangor University Degrees:

• MSc Agroforestry and Food Security
• MSc Conservation and Land Management
• MSc Environmental Forestry

---

Partner University Degrees:

• Master of Forest Management (Lakehead University)
• MSc (University of Alberta)
• Master of Agriculture, MAg (University of Alberta)
• Master of Forestry, MF (University of Alberta)
• Master of Forestry, MF (University of British Columbia)

---

Student Selection:

Students apply to their chosen home university, which collaborates with the partner university to select qualified candidates. The selection process prioritizes applicants with strong academic backgrounds, relevant experience, and a demonstrated interest in international collaboration. Preference is given to those with potential for future involvement in international forestry and environmental management work.

---

Outline:

The program's curriculum delves into various aspects of forestry and environmental management, encompassing theoretical knowledge and practical skills application. The curriculum typically includes:

---

Core Courses:

• Principles of Forest Management
• Sustainable Forest Management
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• Climate Change and Forestry
• Forest Policy and Law
• Conservation Biology
• Geospatial Technologies for Natural Resource Management

---

Elective Courses:

• Agroforestry
• Forest Economics
• Social Forestry
• Forest Fire Management
• Watershed Management
• Non-Timber Forest Products
• Adaptive Forest Management

---

Individualized Research Project:

Students undertake an independent research project under the supervision of faculty members. The project allows them to apply their acquired knowledge and skills to a specific topic of interest within the forestry and environmental management domain.

---

Fieldwork and Practical Training:

Fieldwork and practical training experiences are integrated into the program, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities in forestry and environmental management practices. These experiences may involve:

• Working with forestry professionals in the field
• Conducting field experiments and data collection
• Visiting and studying different forest ecosystems
• Engaging in community-based forestry and conservation projects

---

Assessment:

Student performance is evaluated through various assessment methods:

• Coursework: Assignments, projects, and presentations contribute to the overall grade.
• Examinations: Written and/or oral exams assess students' knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
• Research Project: The quality of research design, data analysis, interpretation, and communication are evaluated.
• Fieldwork Performance: Assessment of students' practical skills and ability to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting.

---

Teaching:

The program employs a diverse range of teaching methods:

• Lectures: Engaging lectures delivered by experienced faculty members introduce key concepts and theoretical frameworks.
• Seminars and Tutorials: Interactive sessions provide opportunities for in-depth discussion, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
• Fieldwork and Practical Training: Experiential learning through field visits, hands-on exercises, and involvement in practical projects.
• Individual Supervision: Personalized guidance and support from faculty members for the research project.
• Guest Speakers and Industry Experts: Presentations and workshops by professionals from various sectors of the forestry and environmental management industries.

---

Faculty:

The program draws on the expertise of renowned faculty members at Bangor University and partner institutions, all of whom are actively engaged in research and professional practice in the field. The faculty possess a wide range of expertise in various areas, including:

• Forest Ecology
• Silviculture
• Forest Management
• Forest Economics
• Forest Policy
• Conservation Biology
• Climate Change
• Geospatial Technologies

---

Careers:

Graduates of the TRANSFOR-M program are well-positioned for diverse career paths in forestry, environmental management, and related fields. Potential career options include:

• Forest Management Specialist
• Conservation Planner
• Environmental Consultant
• Policy Analyst
• Researcher
• Educator
• Project Manager

---

Other:

• The program provides students with the opportunity to develop valuable cross-cultural and communication skills through interaction with faculty and peers from different countries.
• The dual degree earned from Bangor University and the partner institution enhances graduates' employability and career prospects both in their home countries and internationally.
• Students have the chance to expand their professional network and build connections with experts in the forestry and environmental management sectors.
• The program promotes international collaboration and exchange, fostering understanding and cooperation among partners from different countries and academic institutions.

---

Additional Notes:

• Fees for the program vary depending on the specific participating universities involved.
• Admission requirements may differ slightly between universities.
• Applicants are encouraged to contact the TRANSFOR-M consortium for further details and application procedures.

---

Conclusion:

The Forestry and Environmental Management degrees (TRANSFOR-M) program is a comprehensive and internationally recognized postgraduate program that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for success in diverse careers related to forestry, natural resource management, and sustainable development. The program's unique dual degree structure, international collaboration opportunities, and emphasis on practical training make it an attractive choice for students seeking a rewarding and impactful career in this field.