Forests are an important natural resource and we as human beings depend on them for our survival. They provide a habitat for animals, livelihood for human beings, prevent soil erosion and regulate the global climate. Hence, it is very vital for us to conserve and manage them. As a subject Forestry is the science of planting, maintaining, and conserving forests, woodlands, and their related resources. Pursuing a program in Forestry gives students the knowledge and skills required to manage forests, new and old plantations, and their related resources. The study aims at creating and implementing systems required to ensure the continuation of forest supplies and to make sure that they do not become extinct. Students studying Forestry receive theoretical as well as practical knowledge regarding forestry and studies related to it. There are certain qualities that a candidate interested in studying forestry must possess and these include a spirit of adventure, enthusiasm, and adaptability to a new environment. They should also be interested in global concerns and assess the steps required to improve the environment. Forestry is multi-disciplinary and is linked to other subjects like biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Its focus is not just on trees but it also gives equal importance to soil health, climate, and the entire ecosystem. The study of Forestry is included in industries like agriculture, supply chains, water management, wildlife preservation, and conservation of natural resources.

Study levels

Candidates who are interested in pursuing a degree in Forestry must have completed their 12th in a science stream covering subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Students can opt for the following courses in the study of forestry:

• B.Sc in Forestry
• Bachelor Degree in Forest and Natural Environment Engineering
• Bachelor in Wood and Digital Transition of Production
• B.Sc in Forest Management
• Bachelor of Engineer Forestry
• Bachelor in Environmental and Forest Sciences
• Bachelor in Forest Science
• M.Sc in Forestry
• Master in European Forestry
• Master Degree in Forestry Engineering
• Master in Forest Sciences
• Master in Plant and Forest Biotechnology
• Master in Sustainable Management of Forest Ecosystems
• Master in Management of Forest Resources
• M.Sc in Agroforestry
• M.Sc in Tree Improvements

Besides the above mentioned courses, various certificate and diploma courses in Forestry are also available, including:

• Certificate Course in Wildlife Management
• Diploma in Zoo and Wild Animal Health Cure and Management
• Post Graduate Diploma in Forestry Management
• Post Master’s Diploma in Non-Wood Forest Products

Upon completion of their Masters's Degree, students can choose to study further to complete their Ph.D. and research in Forestry.

Specializations:

Candidates pursuing a degree in Forestry have a number of specializations options to choose from. This not only gives them a more in-depth understanding of the subject but also helps them look at different career options.

The areas that they can specialize in include:

• Forest Economics
• Forest Management
• Commercial Forestry
• Wildlife Science
• Watershed Management
• Eco-Tourism
• Forest Genetic Resources
• Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Technology.
• Forest Biology
• Forest Ecosystem Decision Making
• Wood Properties and Identification
• Wood Science and Technology
• Urban and Community Forestry
• Silviculture
• Forest Insects and Diseases
• Ecosystem Management
• Forest Biometry
• Plant Physiology
• Tree Genetics and Breeding

Employability

A lot of career opportunities are available in the field of Forestry both in the public and private sectors. Job roles that graduates in Forestry can take up include:

• Forester
• Forest Range Officer
• Forestry Technicians
• Forest Officer
• Natural Resource Technician
• Foresters Silviculturist
• Teacher or Lecturer
• Audit Officer-Forestry
• Land Conservation Specialist
• Consulting Forester
• Environmental Biologist
• Wetlands Specialist