Forest Science (FORSC)
Associate Director for Academic Programs Coordinator of Undergraduate Programs
Dr. Paul Blankenhorn Jamie Murphy
814-863-6972 814-863-0362
http://www.sfr.cas.psu.edu/
Forestry has been a major at Penn State since 1907. Our program was among the first group of forestry programs accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF) in 1935. The SAF is a scientific and educational organization representing the forestry profession and it is the only organization that may accredit forestry curricula in the United States. Penn State’s Forest Management, Forest Biology, and Urban Forestry options are accredited by SAF.
In our technological society, professional foresters are challenged with managing renewable natural resources and improving the quality of our environment. They are concerned with the availability of clean water for people and industries, timber for construction, pulpwood for paper production, wildlife and parks for recreation, and trees to beautify rural and urban landscapes.
For a successful forestry career, several personal qualities are desirable:
- an ethical concern for natural resources and an appreciation of nature
- an analytical mind to cope with complex biological systems and with complex economic and social aspects of managing natural resources
- creative abilities for solving technological problems
- ability to communicate with the public and to supervise employees
The mission of the bachelor of science program in Forest Science is to help students develop the knowledge, skills, and professional ethics for understanding and managing forest ecosystems and living as responsible members of society.
Curriculum
The bachelor of science program in Forest Science provides the education necessary for students to pursue professional careers in one of the following four options: (1) Forest Biology, (2) Forest Management, (3) Urban Forestry, and (4) Watershed Management. These options also prepare students for graduate studies and continuing professional education.
As with many professions, the scope and complexity of the forestry profession has increased since its inception in the United States nearly a century ago. What was once a profession that focused primarily on the management of forest lands for the sustained production of timber and fiber resources, has now become a profession concerned with the scientific management of forest land for a range of multiple resources. Proper management of these resources often takes specialized training as in the case of managing forests for quality water production. The options in the Forest Science program offer students a forestry foundation with specialized training.
Forest Biology Option: This option provides a strong background in the biological and ecological aspects of contemporary forestry and establishes a sound foundation for professional employment and graduate-level study in forest and environmental sciences.
Forest Management Option: This option provides professional training in the management of forest lands consistent with the needs of ownership objectives. Employment opportunities include forest management positions with public agencies, industry, and private consulting.
Urban Forestry Option: This option prepares students to manage community trees and green spaces. It emphasizes technical expertise, communication abilities, and skills for working with diverse people. Employment opportunities include municipalities, consulting firms, arboricultural companies, utilities, and government agencies.
Watershed Management Option: This option focuses on water resources and the integrated management of natural resources with emphasis on water. Graduates qualify for federal employment as hydrologists and for water-related careers in municipal watershed management, state and local government, and environmental/engineering consulting.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Professional foresters are employed by federal agencies such as the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and Natural Resources Conservation Service; various state and municipal departments; forest products industries; and private enterprises. A Forest Science graduate may become
- an administrator managing thousands of acres of valuable timberland, including watersheds, gamelands, and recreation areas;
- an ecologist studying effects of human activities on vegetation and wildlife;
- a consultant surveying timber lands, recommending harvest and reforestation practices;
- a hydrologist measuring streamflow and managing municipal watersheds;
- a biometrician using a computer to analyze and interpret data to determine resource allocation;
- an industrial forester responsible for meeting the company's need for raw materials;
- a park superintendent serving thousands of people enjoying outdoor recreation;
- an economist determining levels of supply and demand for forest resources; or
- an urban forester managing street trees and parks.
Course Scheduling Tips
All Forest Science students should change their campus location to University Park by the start of their sophomore year (your third semester). It is extremely helpful to complete calculus, statistics, and chemistry requirements as early as possible.
When a required course has both a lecture and practicum portion, such as PHYS 250 and PHYS 250P, students are required to take both portions.
Acceptable selections for Arts, Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences, United States and International Cultures, Health Sciences and Physical Education, and First-Year Seminar are listed in the General Education in the Curriculum handbook. United States and international cultures requirements may double-count with a GS, GA, or GH requirement.
Please contact Jamie Murphy with any scheduling questions (814-863-0362).
2006-2007 Student Handbook (PDF)
Recommended Academic Plan
Forest Biology Option (PDF)
Forest Management Option (PDF)
Urban Forestry Option (PDF)
Watershed Management Option (PDF)