Program Overview

Introduction to the Dual Master's in Forestry Program

The Dual Master's in Forestry program, also known as TRANSFOR-M (Transatlantic Forestry Master), is a unique dual degree program that offers qualified students the opportunity to earn a course-based Master of Forestry (MF) degree from the University of British Columbia (UBC) and a thesis-based Master of Science degree from one of the five participating universities in Europe in two years.

Program Overview

This program aims to educate the next generation of globally-minded forest and environmental managers and scientists on the cultural differences, diverse historical contexts, and differing economic drivers that exist in Canadian and European natural resource management approaches. By drawing on the expertise and opportunities through UBC MF degree and various graduate programs across five forestry schools in Europe, the program provides unparalleled possibilities and experiences for participants.

Program Structure

The program allows students to earn two master's degrees from two world-class forestry schools in two years of study. Students register in the MF program at UBC for two years, spending one year in Europe completing degree requirements at the chosen partner institution and the second year at UBC-Vancouver completing the MF degree requirements.

Partner Universities

Each UBC TRANSFOR-M student will receive upon completion of the program the UBC Master of Forestry (MF) degree and one of the degrees offered by the European Host Universities:

• Bangor University (Wales, UK) – School of Agricultural & Forest Sciences, offering degrees in MSc Agroforestry and Food Security, MSc Conservation and Land Management, and MSc Environmental Forestry.
• Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (Sweden), offering degrees in MSc Forestry Science or Biology, MSc Biology, MSc Bioeconomy Management, and MSc Forestry Science.
• University of Eastern Finland (Finland) – Faculty of Forestry, offering degrees in MSc Agriculture and Forestry.
• University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (Austria), offering degrees in MSc Mountain Forestry.
• University of Padova (Italy), offering degrees in MSc Forest Science.

Program Benefits

Earning two master's degrees from two world-class forestry schools enhances the opportunities available to graduates. The program provides students with a unique learning experience, allowing them to develop a learning plan that outlines courses to be taken during the 2-year program.

Tuition Fees

Each student will pay the UBC MF tuition fees for two years but will receive a tuition fee waiver at the Host University in Europe.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Earthshot Foundation's Terranaut Graduate Scholarship in Forestry offers $20K scholarships available for TRANSFOR-M 1st year students.

Student Testimonials

Students who have participated in the program have praised its unique opportunities and experiences. For example, Cheryl, an MF (TRANSFOR-M) student, has two international degrees thanks to the Transfor-M program and knows that forestry is a global resource, making her a very marketable candidate. Cèilidh Smith, another MF (TRANSFOR-M) student, is pursuing a Dual Master's with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and UBC Forestry.

Graduation Requirements and Timeline

Admitted students must fulfill the individual program requirements for each institution's degree. The program is designed to be completed in two years, with one year spent in Europe and the second year at UBC-Vancouver.

Conclusion

The Dual Master's in Forestry program offers a unique opportunity for students to earn two master's degrees from world-class forestry schools in two years. With its diverse range of partner universities and degree options, the program provides students with unparalleled possibilities and experiences, enhancing their opportunities and making them highly marketable candidates in the field of forestry.