Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The MS in Forestry combines core forest science with applied methods training and opportunities for thesis or non‑thesis projects. Typical coursework covers forest ecology and dynamics, silviculture, fire ecology and fuels management, mensuration and forest biometrics, forest health and pathology, ecosystem restoration, and remote sensing/GIS for natural resources. Students also take statistics or quantitative methods for ecological data and seminars in current forestry topics.

Programme structure is flexible and commonly includes a mix of classroom instruction, laboratory work and extensive field components. Students may complete an independent research thesis under faculty supervision or pursue a non‑thesis option that emphasises additional coursework and a professional practicum. Fieldwork frequently uses nearby forest types — including ponderosa pine ecosystems — and integrates partnerships with federal and state land management agencies.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A bachelor’s degree in forestry, ecology, natural resources, environmental science, biology, or a closely related discipline. Strong quantitative coursework is preferred (e.g. statistics, calculus, or ecology/soil/biology lab courses).
• GPA: Competitive applicants normally present a satisfactory undergraduate record; meeting the department’s minimum GPA is required for consideration.
• Supporting documents: Official transcripts, a statement of purpose describing research or professional interests, a current résumé or CV, and two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Standardised tests: The programme may not require the GRE for all applicants; check current graduate admissions guidance. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through approved tests unless exempt.
• Experience: Relevant field, laboratory or professional experience is advantageous, especially for applicants proposing applied research or practicum projects.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MS in Forestry move into a wide range of careers across public agencies, non‑profits and the private sector. Typical roles include forest manager, restoration ecologist, conservation scientist, wildfire mitigation specialist, forest health specialist, natural resources consultant, and GIS/remote sensing analyst. The degree also provides preparation for doctoral study and research positions, or for leadership roles in land management agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, state forestry departments, tribal natural resource programmes, and environmental NGOs.

Alumni often work on issues such as wildland fire management and risk reduction, ecosystem restoration after disturbances, sustainable timber management, invasive species control, and landscape‑scale planning for climate resilience.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

• Field‑based training: NAU’s location in Flagstaff offers immediate access to a diversity of forest ecosystems, enabling intensive, hands‑on field courses and long‑term ecological studies.
• Research partnerships: The School of Forestry collaborates with federal and state land managers, research stations and regional conservation organisations, providing real‑world project opportunities and practicum placements.
• Faculty expertise: Faculty have expertise in areas such as fire ecology and fuels management, forest restoration, forest health, landscape ecology and remote sensing, supporting a range of student research topics.
• Facilities and resources: Students benefit from university laboratories, GIS and remote sensing resources, and access to nearby national forests and long‑term research sites for applied study.
• Small cohorts and mentorship: The programme typically admits relatively small cohorts, allowing close mentorship, collaborative field teams and tailored research supervision.