Forest Resources, PhD

Program Description

A PhD in Forest Resources provides students with advanced training in scientific-based management of forest resources, products, and services as well as forest ecology and forest science. Dissertation research areas may include but are not limited to forest ecology, forest health, wood products, forest economics, and silviculture. Graduates from the program are working in both private and public spheres to ensure sustainability and quality of resources including timber, water, and recreational value on natural lands. Research opportunities are enhanced by cooperative programs with the U.S Forest Service and S.C. Department of Forestry.

Students are required to have completed a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in forestry, forest products, or a related field. A Master’s degree in forestry, forest products, or a related field is also preferred, but not required. Students accepted without the appropriate course background are required to address these deficiencies as outlined by their advisory committee 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

A minimum of 30 credits past the master’s and 60 credits past the bachelor’s degree, inclusive of research credits, are required to earn a PhD in Forest Resources. A minimum of 18 credits of doctoral research (FOR 9910 ) is required. A minimum of 12 credit hours of non-research courses numbered 8000 or above is required, of which at least eight credit hours must be FOR courses. Special Problems (FOR 7070 ) may be taken for a maximum of six credit hours. 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 credits may be approved by the AC and Graduate Coordinator. Seminar or reading group classes count toward the required 12 credits of non-research 8000-level coursework. In addition to the required coursework, students eligible for graduation must complete and successfully defend a comprehensive exam and dissertation.