The MS in Forestry program has been shelved and is no longer accepting applications. The College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science (CFRES) offers many graduate degrees, including a Masters of Forestry professional degree and an MS in Forest Ecology and Management.
Evaluate sugar maple dieback trends. Compile and analyze woodland owner surveys. Study past harvesting practices and other stressors to detect trends, improve forest productivity, and decrease tree mortality. Research on pests, tree pathogens, and selecting tree species that adapt to a range of future conditions—preparing forests for multiple recreational and industrial uses, and changing climate. Take part in national climate assessments, and ecosystem services, sustainability, and bioenergy development across the Americas. Learn to evaluate research, propose research, and be capable to carry it out, making an original contribution to science—and be prepared to enter industry, or continue on to PhD studies.
Program Strengths and Opportunities
- Learn how to grow and utilize forests. One of the top three forestry programs in the state, home to a designated Model Forest, Michigan Tech works with public and private landowners, industry, and the University on projects that directly benefit forest health, and commercial and recreational use.
- 6,500 feet of lab space, 2,000 of greenhouse, 5,397 acres of research forest.
- If you are interested in production forestry, focus on bioenergy, biofuels, lumber supply and biomaterial production—management is the objective. There is also outstanding potential in forest restoration, in Michigan, and other parts of the world.
- Tap into the wide breadth of expertise within our small, friendly academic community. Get to know us, and find who you want to work with.
- Research degrees are non-specific, and we intentionally set a low number of required classes, unless your committee requires them.
- Explore your interests with your committee and your advisor to define the optimal educational experience.
"An improved understanding of the complex etiology associated with sugar maple dieback in the Upper Great Lakes region is necessary to make appropriate silvicultural decisions."
Funding Opportunities
- We work diligently to continuously acquire research funding—and we are successful. Our research expenditures total more than $300,000 per faculty member, the highest external funding level of any academic unit at Michigan Tech.
- Research the researchers. Match your area of interest with a faculty member, and contact him or her directly—your best chance to be matched with an assistantship and research project.
- Check our open research positions often, where you will also find a listing of fellowships, jobs, and other funding opportunities.