Forestry Auburn University

Overview

The Forestry programme at Auburn University provides students with the essential scientific and managerial skills required to lead in the conservation and sustainable use of forest resources. This curriculum integrates physical, social, and biological sciences to prepare graduates for roles as responsible stewards of both public and private lands.

The degree is structured to address the complex ecological, environmental, and economic considerations of modern timber production and resource protection. Students gain a deep understanding of how to manage land for multiple uses, ranging from industrial timber harvesting to environmental conservation and public recreation.

Why Forestry at Auburn University?

This major is professionally accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF), ensuring that the curriculum meets the highest industry standards. Upon graduation, students are eligible to participate in the SAF examination to become Registered Foresters, a prestigious professional designation awarded after two years of employment.

A distinctive feature of the programme is the nine-week Forestry Practicum held at the Solon Dixon Forestry Education Center. This intensive summer session provides vital field skills and hands-on learning experiences that bridge the gap between classroom theory and professional practice in a real-world forest environment.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 18011 per semester
• National fee: USD 18011 per semester
• Local fee: USD 6659 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is divided into pre-professional and professional stages, focusing on core scientific principles and advanced management techniques. Modules may include:

Year 1

• Organismal Biology
• Principles of Biology
• Renewable Natural Resources
• Statistics for Biological and Health Sciences
• Pre-Calculus Trigonometry

Year 2

• Microeconomics
• GIS Applications in Natural Resources
• Chemistry
• Public Speaking
• Forest and Manufacturing Operations
• Forest Management Strategies
• Field Mensuration
• Forest Biology
• Forest Surveying

Year 3

• Dendrology
• Forest Tree Physiology
• Forest Resource Sampling
• Forest Biometrics
• Forest Soils
• Forest Ecology
• Forest Products and Packaging
• Forest Economics
• Harvesting

Year 4

• Forest Health
• Forest Management and Administration
• Natural Resource Policy
• Silviculture
• Senior Capstone Project
• Forest Regeneration and Seedling Production

Careers with Forestry

Graduates are prepared for diverse employment opportunities across the forest resource sector. Many find roles within the forest industry, managing lands where timber production is the primary objective, while others work for private non-industrial landowners focusing on multi-use land management.

Career paths also extend to the public sector, where graduates manage lands dedicated to environmental protection and outdoor recreation. The programme’s accreditation ensures that alumni are well-positioned for advancement into high-level managerial responsibilities within government agencies, conservation organisations, and private forestry firms.