Forest Resources, MFR

Program Description

A Master’s degree in Forest Resources provides students with advanced training in scientific-based management of forest resources, products, and services. Thesis research areas may include but are not limited to forest ecology, forest health, wood products, forest economics, and silviculture. Graduates from this program often pursue careers as foresters with state or federal agencies, private timber companies, or consulting companies. Graduates from this program are also prepared to pursue a PhD in this or a related field. Research opportunities are enhanced by cooperative programs with the S.C. Department of Forestry and U.S. Forest Service.

Students are required to have completed a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in forestry or a related field. Students accepted without the appropriate course background may be required to address these deficiencies as outlined by the prospective advisor and consistent with University admission policies. Before applying, it is recommended that applicants contact faculty members whose research interests align with their own to determine the availability of research opportunities.

Summary of Degree Requirements

Students must successfully complete at least 36 credit hours of graduate coursework, which cannot include thesis research (FOR 8910 ). At least 18 credit hours must be from courses numbered 7000 or above, including at least two credit hours of Special Problems (FOR 7070 ). Students are expected to take Graduate Seminar (FNR 8080 ) twice, for a total of two credits, although substitutions of other graduate reading group or seminar courses for one or both of these credits may be approved by the AC and Graduate Coordinator. Seminar or reading group classes count toward the required 36 credits of coursework. Students who do not have a degree in forestry should consult the Forestry and Environmental Conservation Graduate Handbook for a list of undergraduate courses that would need to be completed in addition to the requirements at the graduate level.