Forestry Core Requirements and Options

 

Core Curriculum

Listed here are the required curriculum for both the current and previous years. These courses are required for all Forestry students no matter which of the above options they choose. These courses act as a foundation for which the classes within the desired option are built upon.

 

Forestry Camp

Forestry students attend Fall Forestry Camp during their sophomore year at ISU. This experience often helps students choose their option when they return to campus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In addition to the core curriculum for Forestry, students choose an option, or specialty area. Students declare their chosen option during their sophomore year at ISU.

 

Forest Ecosystem Management

The Forest Ecosystem Management option concentrates on management of the complete forest ecosystem. It deals with the spectrum of forestland use from wilderness preservation to timber harvest to supply the nation's demand for wood products. Students in this option study forest biology, ecology, and management, including recreational use, water quality, timber production, prescribed burns and wildlife habitat.

Careers: District Forester, Land Manager, Park Ranger, Plant Health Care Specialist, Nursery Manager, Forest Ecologist, Forest Fire Fighter, Recreation Specialist

 

 

Interpretation of Natural Resources

The Interpretation of Natural Resources option concentrates on natural history, earth science and communication techniques with the basic forestry education background. Students in this option will learn to communicate environmental information and values with the public.

Careers: Environmental Educator, Naturalist, Interpreter, Park Ranger, Extension Educator, Natural Resources Policy or Public Relations worker, Spokesperson

 

 

Natural Resource Conservation & Restoration

The Natural Resource Conservation and Restoration option concentrates on the management of natural resources other than timber harvest. Students learn about the care of forests and natural areas with an emphasis on ecosystem conservation and preservation, environmental benefits and human impact.

Careers: Conservation Technician, Wilderness Ranger, Restoration Ecologist, Natural Resource Policy, Environmental Consultant

 

 

Sustainable Materials Science & Technology

The Sustainable Materials Science and Technology option concentrates on the development and use of wood products ranging from structural lumber to veneer to paper products that we depend on every day. Students in this option study the anatomical, physical and chemical properties of wood and different wood processing operations.

Careers: Industrial Forester, Wood Products Sales, Wood & Bio-based Product Development, Log Procurement Specialist, Mill Plant Manager

 

 

Urban & Community Forestry

The Urban and Community Forestry option concentrates on the management of trees in urban settings such as city parks, greenbelt areas and boulevards. Students learn to implement site assessments, long-term management plans and pest management along with effectively communicating with their peers and the public.

Careers: Arborist, Municipal Forester, Arboretum Director, Plant Health Care Specialist, Nursery Manager