Forest Technology (2 FORT)
Program Coordinator
Mr. Craig Houghton
717-749-6239
www.ma.psu.edu/forestry
Penn State Mont Alto is now in its second century of forestry education. It is one of more than twenty programs in North America recognized by the Society of American Foresters. What began in 1903 as one of the first forestry schools in the U.S. is now the associate in science degree in Forest Technology.
The major provides a hands-on education where students get outdoors for much of their learning. They learn about plants, trees, and forest ecosystems and how to identify, measure, inventory, map, grow, protect, and manage forests. Forest Technology students learn about wildlife, recreation, forest products, and how to carefully harvest and utilize forest resources. Students can even learn how to safely climb trees!
Why Major in Forest Technology?
Students come to Mont Alto to study Forest Technology because they like:
- the outdoors
- being active
- hands-on, applied education
- small classes where instructors know you
Career Opportunities for Forest Technology Graduates
Graduates often continue their education and most can complete a bachelor's degree in forestry in an additional two years. They may also enter the work force as forest technicians with local, state, and federal agencies including the Pennsylvania Bureaus of Forestry or Parks and the U.S. Forest Service or Natural Resources Conservation Service. They work in the private sector with forestry consultants, wood products companies, utility companies, and other outdoor-related positions. They also work as arborists and plant health care specialists with tree care companies and gardens, land surveying firms, conservation organizations, or private landowners.
Penn State Mont Alto
Both years of the Forest Technology degree program are completed at Mont Alto.
Recommended Academic Plan
Forestry Technology: Mont Alto (PDF)