PhD in Forestry

The doctoral program in forest science is aimed at candidates who want to add new knowledge in areas such as forest ecology, soil science, silviculture, genetics, wildlife management, economics and wood science. The department describes itself as ranked second nationally among forestry graduate programs. Students shape a plan of study with their advisor and committee, take a graduate seminar and a research methods course, and add an upper-level statistics class. Milestones include a qualifying exam, a research proposal exam, a written dissertation and a final oral defense. Research facilities include a large research forest, laboratory space and greenhouses. Applicants submit the university's online graduate application. The department's pages list degree requirements, research areas and faculty, and prospective students are encouraged to review them and contact the program to discuss fit before applying. Graduates are prepared for roles in industry, government and research, as well as further study. Department news and research highlights are posted online too.