Program Overview

Forest Ecology and Management Option

The Forest Ecology and Management option prepares students to manage and conserve forest ecosystems.

What is Forest Ecology and Management?

This option is part of the Natural Resource Ecology and Management major, which focuses on the study of tree biology, forest ecology, and economics through hands-on experience in forest measurement, silviculture, and management planning.

Option Details

• Option: Forest Ecology and Management
• Major: Natural Resource Ecology and Management
• Department: Natural Resource Ecology and Management
• College: Ferguson College of Agriculture
• Available At: OSU Stillwater Campus

Other Major Options

• Fisheries and Aquatic Ecology
• Rangeland Ecology and Management
• Wildlife Biology and Pre-Veterinary Science
• Wildlife Ecology and Management

Career Paths

The professional positions our graduates pursue upon graduation are as varied as the natural resources they wish to protect and enhance. Potential jobs include:

• Environmental consultant
• Forest resource manager
• Refuge/preserve manager
• Research scientist
• Forester
• Recreational manager
• Tree nursery manager
• Urban forester

Scholarships

$1.8 million in undergraduate scholarships are awarded by the Ferguson College of Agriculture and its departments annually.

Highlights

Senior Capstone Course

In your senior capstone course, you will tackle a real resource management problem for a land or resource agency, working with a professional or private landowner. This will prepare you for your first professional assignment.

Fast Fact

The option is accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF), the specialized accrediting body for forestry programs in the U.S. Requirements for this option include the successful completion of two, three-week field camps in May, which are scheduled to follow the sophomore and junior years, and are held annually in diverse forest settings.

Student Involvement

You can become an active member of one of the many student organizations in the department. Participation in these organizations gives you the chance to attend state, regional, or national meetings to gain valuable advantages through networking, student competitions, and interacting with various career-related activities.

Real-World Experience

Depending on your course of study, an internship or professional summer job experience may be required. This will provide you with real-world experiences, enhance your education, and may lead to permanent employment following graduation.