Forest Ecology and Management

USU's forestry degree is the only one in Utah that is nationally accredited with the Society of American Foresters, and USU is the only university in the state with a college devoted to the study of natural resources.

In the program, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to manage public or private forests. The program focuses on providing future foresters with the broadest possible understanding of the biological, physical, economic, political, and social aspects of forestry. This multidisciplinary degree consists of courses in biology, math, chemistry, statistics, forest ecology, inventory, water quality, wildlife habitat, tree species, and geographic information systems.

Forest ecosystems supply water, maintain climate, help purify the air, protect soils, provide recreational experiences, and serve as habitat for wildlife. Foresters develop, use, and communicate their knowledge to sustain and enhance these forest resources for diverse benefits now and in the future. Foresters also oversee the use of timber, recreation, and water, and by doing so strive to ensure biological diversity.

Bachelor Degree Minimum Requirements

Admission to USU is test optional for Spring 2022, Summer 2022, and Fall 2022. ACT/SAT test scores will still be considered if submitted.

• 2.8-4.0 GPA - Admitted in Good Standing
  • Students with less than a 2.8 high school GPA may still be admitted in good standing based upon the combination of their GPA and ACT/SAT score. See if you qualify.
• 2.79 GPA & below - Considered for Earned Admission path.

Associate Degree Minimum Requirements

Most USU Eastern and USU Blanding Associates Degrees and Certificates are open enrollment and do not require a minimum high school GPA or ACT/SAT score.

Recommended High School Prep Work

• 4 years of English
• 4 years of Math (One class beyond math 3)
• 3.5 years of Social Science
• 3 years of Lab-Based Science (one each: biology, chemistry, and physics)
• 2 years of a world language (same language, taken progressively during grades 9-12)

With a degree in forestry, students may be qualified for the following careers:

• Forester for state/federal land management agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, private consulting firms, private timber industries, nonprofit environmental organizations, etc.
• Manager of urban tree resources for city government or utilities
• Provide assistance and advice to private landowners

Career Services provides counseling and information on hundreds of job and internship opportunities and even helps students apply and interview.