Program Overview

Introduction to the Forest Management Program

The Forest Management program at the University of British Columbia is designed to prepare professionals for the stewardship and use of forests to meet specific environmental, economic, and social goals. This interdisciplinary program combines adventure, field work, and experiential learning to tackle significant challenges in natural resources.

Program Description

Forest management is the process of planning and implementing practices for the stewardship and use of forests. The program explores forestry as a sustainable and vital human activity, covering topics such as renewable timber production, ecotourism, biodiversity assessment, public communications, and seedling production to landscape-level management. Graduates are eligible to become Registered Professional Foresters (RPF) with essential skills applicable to silviculture, community forestry, research, and policy decision-making.

Learning Outcomes

The program aims to equip students with the skills to manage forests and a variety of natural resources to optimize ecosystem services with a strong environmental and social focus. Students will become well-rounded and interdisciplinary professionals with skills in:

• Key topics of Earth Sciences such as Biology, Ecology, Hydrology, and Wildlife
• Field measurements and data analysis
• Biological, physical, and social foundations of forestry (applied to different ecosystems and jurisdictions)
• Characterization of forests, their interactions, and ways they can be managed to yield a socially desirable mix of goods and services
• Professional management of forests for a broad array of uses
• Scientific writing, communications, economics, and policy

Field School

Students majoring in Forest Management will participate in an immersive fall camp, providing them with essential skills and knowledge to effectively address real-world forestry challenges.

Mission Statement

The Forest Management major covers the biological, physical, and social sciences upon which forest resource management is based and provides a working knowledge of the characteristics of forest resources, their interactions, and the ways in which they can be managed to yield a socially desirable mix of goods and services.

Accreditation

This program is accredited by the Canadian Forestry Accreditation Board (CFAB), allowing students to immediately enroll with Forest Professionals British Columbia (FPBC) to become Registered Professional Foresters (RPF) — legally authorized to practice their profession in BC and easily transfer these credentials to other Canadian jurisdictions. The program has also been accepted for candidacy for accreditation by the Society of American Foresters (SAF), allowing students in the future to become professional foresters in the United States.

Employment Opportunities

The Forest Management and Forest Operations majors have a high level of employment upon graduation, partly because of the valuable RPF designations that they can provide. The Faculty of Forestry runs periodic alumni surveys that reveal close to 95% employment rate after graduation (including 10% who choose graduate programs). Alumni can work in government agencies, private industry, NGOs, continue graduate studies, or become successful entrepreneurs in forestry, natural resources, or multiple related sectors.

Dual Degree Option

Earn a Bachelor of Natural Resources in Forest Management and a Master of Management from the Sauder School of Business in 4.5 years with the Forestry Dual Degree program.

Land One Option

The Land One program is a great option for first-year students who want a smaller classroom experience. Learn about forest management and food security in a tight-knit cohort environment.

Co-op Option

Apply for the Forestry Co-op Program to gain paid work experience related to your degree and acquire the experience necessary to launch your career.

Program Details

• Program length: 4 years, full-time
• Academic year: September - April
• Location: UBC Vancouver Campus
• Tuition (Year 1 - 2024/25):
  • Canadian students: $6,079.20 CAD
  • International students: $51,040.50 CAD

Conclusion

The Forest Management program at the University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to forest management, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this field. With its strong focus on environmental and social sustainability, this program is ideal for students who want to make a positive impact on the world.