Detailed Look at Online Forestry Degrees
If you feel most alive on a hike through the woods, are fascinated by trees and the different worlds a forest ecosystem can hold, or are passionate about conservation and rewilding, then you might be a good candidate for a forestry degree.
Forestry degrees are available at all academic levels, with jobs in the field growing steadily, and earning your forestry degree online can be a convenient way to access some of the top forestry programs in the nation without the hassle and expense of moving. Learn more about online forestry degrees and how they might work for you with STEPS.
An Intro to Forestry Degrees
There are forestry degrees ranging from two-year associate degrees to doctoral programs that take five or more years to complete. However, there’s one thing all forestry degrees have in common: trees.
Whether you’re studying tree conservation and wildlife preservation, or urban forestry and how human-built environments can be modified and adapted for the clearer air and biodiversity of forests, forestry degrees involve studying trees and how we humans interact with them.
Which type of degree you choose will not only impact how long you’ll be studying for, but also if you’ll be primarily in the classroom or researching independently, and more.
Still interested? Let’s take a deeper look at career paths in [subject] and see which one might be the right fit.
Job Paths for Forestry Students
Forestry is a broad field, and the types of jobs you apply for after completing your online forestry degree will depend on your interests as well as degree type. Here are a few sub-fields and some of the many options you’ll have to consider:
Conservation
Some of the most important forestry-related work right now is to do with conservation. Keeping forests and around the world safe from human interference can have major impacts on everything from the quality of the air we breathe to the survival of entire species.
Conservation is a diverse field that blends the scientific with the political. Some conservation careers in forestry may include:
- Environmental Scientist
- Forester
- Conservation Scientist
- Park Ranger
- Conservation Technician
Urban Planning
While you might think of forestry as a career based in the wilderness, much of forestry comes down to making human-created environments more ecologically friendly with a greater diversity of living things. This is where urban planning can be crucial, and a forestry education can help you know what ideas are feasible in eco-conscious urban design for humans and plants alike. This can lead forestry graduates to roles like these:
- Urban Planner
- Regional Planner
- Landscape Architect
- Parks Designer
Public Policy
Many of the key decisions around the fate of the nation’s forests come from the public sector. Public policy has the power to make decisions, good or bad, affecting huge swaths of natural resources across the country and around the world.
Forestry graduates have valuable insight into the delicate balance of forest ecosystems, and their broader impact on human populations. This makes a forestry expert a great candidate for public policy jobs like these:
- Public Policy Advisor
- Consultant
- Community Services Manager
- Policy Analyst
Salary and Career Details
| Area | Occupation | 10th Percentile | 90th Percentile | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Occupations | $30,010 | $56,640 | $35,520 |
| U.S. | Forest and Conservation Technicians | $34,570 | $78,420 | $51,880 |
| U.S. | Forest and Conservation Workers | $28,600 | $50,450 | $33,940 |
| U.S. | Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists | $35,000 | $92,170 | $54,080 |
| U.S. | Foresters | $46,700 | $98,590 | $67,330 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Occupation | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Forest and Conservation Technicians | 31,500 | 31,700 | 200 | 0.60% |
| United States | Forest and Conservation Workers | 11,300 | 10,300 | -1,000 | -8.80% |
| United States | Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists | 2,400 | 2,800 | 400 | 16.70% |
| United States | Foresters | 11,300 | 11,600 | 300 | 2.70% |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
What is the Difference Between Levels of Forestry Degree?
There are forestry programs, either online or in person, at all degree levels. Which one is the best fit for you will largely depend on your prior academic experience. That said, you should also investigate the exact focus of the program you’re interested in, as they vary in terms of a focus on conservation, tree science, environmental policy, and more. Here are a few different types of degrees and specific programs for you to consider:
Undergraduate Certificate Information
Undergraduate certificates in forestry and related subjects are designed to prepare students for entry-level jobs in a range of occupations with federal, state, and municipal public agencies, as well as private businesses and nonprofit organizations. Curriculums often mirror the major-subject coursework of an associate degree program minus that degree’s general education requirements.
Online undergraduate forestry certificate programs are available from both two-year and four-year schools. Credit requirements vary by program, but most are designed to be completed with one year of full-time study. Programs are typically offered in a fully online format with asynchronous coursework.
STEPS Pick: Best Online Undergraduate Certificate Program
University of Florida’s Undergraduate Certificate in Urban Forestry
The undergraduate certificate in Urban Forestry at UF is primarily intended as a complement to a bachelor’s degree, rather than a standalone program. This certificate program builds biology and urban design knowledge so that you can earn more advanced qualifications.
| Cost | Credits | Mode | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| $295/credit | 19 | Online | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) |
All About Associate Degrees
Associate degrees in forestry serve two basic functions for students. First, they prepare students for entry-level positions in forestry, environmental science, natural resources, and other related fields. Second, they allow students interested in obtaining a bachelor’s degree in forestry (or closely-related field) to complete much of their general education and foundational major-subject coursework in a convenient and affordable associate program prior to transferring to a bachelor’s degree program.
Titles for associate degrees currently offered online include:
- AAS in Natural Resource Management
- AAS in Urban Forest Management
- AS in Natural Resources
Specializations, such as environmental science, natural resources, and earth science, may also be available.
STEPS Pick: Best Online Associate Degree Program
Pennsylvania College of Technology’s AAS in Forest Technology
The AAS in Forest Technology at Pennsylvania College of Technology is a hybrid program accredited by the Society of American Foresters. In this two-year degree program, you’ll be learning through both traditional classroom courses, and in hands-on outdoor environments across twenty acres of timberland.
| Cost | Credits | Mode | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| $515-$773/credit (residency-dependent) | 61 | In person/Hybrid | Society of American Foresters |
Bachelor’s Degrees in Forestry
To qualify for most forestry jobs, you will likely need to earn a bachelor’s degree. For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a bachelor’s degree in forestry or a related field is typically required for a career as a forester or conservation scientist.
Unfortunately, online bachelor’s degree programs in forestry are extremely rare. In fact, fully-online bachelor’s degree programs specifically in forestry are practically nonexistent in the U.S. There are, however, online bachelor’s programs in forestry-related major subjects, such as natural resources, environmental science, environmental studies, and geosciences. You will also find traditional on-campus programs that feature general education and even some major-subject coursework that can be completed online.
STEPS Pick: Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Program
University of Montana‘s BS in Forestry
The BS in Forestry at the University of Montana is part of the oldest forestry program in the Western US, which has been accredited by the Society of American Foresters for over ninety years. This is an on-campus program, which includes working on the University of Montana’s Lubrecht Experimental Forest.
| Cost | Credits | Mode | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| $249/credit | 83-88 | In-Person | Society of American Foresters |
Specialize with Graduate Certificate Programs
Online forestry degree options grow substantially when you reach the graduate level, and this is particularly true for graduate-level certificates. Online graduate certificates in forestry are designed to provide training to forestry professionals seeking to expand their knowledge base in a specialized area. They’re also an excellent option for professionals working in fields such as environmental science, agriculture, and natural resources, who are interested in expanding their career opportunities to include positions in forestry.
Online graduate certificate programs in forestry are available from public and private colleges alike, and there are often multiple relevant fields available.
STEPS Pick: Best Online Graduate Certificate Program
University of Florida’s Graduate Certificate in Forest Health and Resilience
The Graduate Certificate Program in Forest Health and Resilience at the University of Florida can be completed in less than a year. This is an ecological program which focuses on socioeconomic factors related to forestry, although there is also a botany and tree health emphasis.
| Cost | Credits | Mode | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| $565-$620/credit | 12 | Online | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) |
Forester’s Guide to Master’s Degrees
Online master’s degrees in forestry are quite popular and are designed primarily for mid-level professionals who are looking to pursue leadership and management positions in their areas of practice. Programs highlight knowledge and training in a range of subjects, including forest management, forest economics, and natural resource law and policy.
Some online programs require completion of a thesis or capstone project, which may include an in-person component, or work at a field site which, while not on campus, may require travel. Final oral examinations which sometimes require an on-campus appearance may also be part of the degree program.
STEPS Pick: Best Online Master’s Degree Program
University of Florida’s MS in Forest Resources and Conservation
The MS in Forest Resources and Conservation at the University of Florida is a fully online degree program with both thesis and non-thesis options. However, the thesis option does require some in-person visits to campus, while the non-thesis option can be completed entirely online.
| Cost | Credits | Mode | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| $449-$1,139/credit (residency-dependent) | 30 | Online | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) |
Details on Doctoral Degrees
Online PhD programs in forestry are rare, but traditional on-campus programs are available from public and private colleges throughout the nation and more online programs may be offered in the future.
Forestry PhD programs teach students advanced skills and deep subject knowledge. The curriculum often covers both high-level topics and specialized areas such as forest management, forest economics, restoration ecology, biotechnology, silviculture, hydrology, and natural resource and environmental policy.
Degree programs feature intensive coursework and research leading to the writing, presentation, and defense of a dissertation. PhD degrees in forestry prepare graduates for high-level forestry careers, as well as research and teaching positions in postsecondary academia.
STEPS Pick: Best Online Doctoral Degree Program
University of Montana’s PhD in Forest and Conservation Sciences
The PhD in Forest and Conservation Sciences at the University of Montana is a part of their highly prestigious forestry program. While half of the 60 credits in the program may be taken online, the remaining 30 must be taken at their Missoula campus. You must complete a dissertation to graduate.
| Cost | Credits | Mode | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition varies by hours taken and residency. | 60 | Hybrid | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Which Online Forestry Program is Right for You?
An online, hybrid, or in-person forestry degree can be a major commitment, both in terms of time and finances. This is why it’s vital that you do sufficient research and plenty of reflection before you choose a program. Before you start applying for online forestry programs, take your time to ask yourself the following questions and see which program, if any, is the best fit for you:
Do I want to work outdoors?
Forestry, with its focus on the natural world, is a field where many jobs involve working at least partially outdoors. For some, this is a major draw, while for others, if this is a negative, it may be better to consider forestry roles in consultancy, etc.
Have I worked with or studied plants before?
This is both a question to ask regarding the appeal of forestry, and what degree level is appropriate for you. Even if you already hold a degree, if it’s in a field completely unrelated to forestry, you should probably not pursue a postgraduate degree just yet.
Where do I want to live after graduation?
Forestry graduates tend to work, to put it plainly, where the forests are. While this may seem like a trivial consideration, it can be an important one. If you have your heart set on moving to the Nevada desert or the middle of the Alaskan tundra after graduation, this could be an issue.
Do I do well in high-pressure situations?
Some forestry roles, particularly those like park rangers who work directly in forests, can be high pressure, and put you face-to-face with the natural world. Consider your relationship to pressure before you enroll in a program that prepares you for a specific role.
Am I good at working towards a multi-year, long-term goal?
Many forestry roles are focused on conservation, with an eye towards mitigating the long-term impact of climate change. These are roles which look years, decades, or even centuries into the future. Ask yourself if you would enjoy taking on a role where the goals you’re working towards may outlast your time at any given job.
Pricing for Forestry Degrees
As you’ll have seen in the school spotlights above, the cost of online forestry programs, and on campus programs, vary substantially from degree to degree, and from school to school. Certificate programs and associate degrees are typically the least expensive, while graduate degrees have the highest tuition costs. Beyond that, whether the school in question is public or private, and, if public, whether you’re eligible for in-state tuition, can have a major impact.
However, the “sticker price” of your program may not be the full story on costs. Be sure that you look into financial aid options from your school, as well as filling out your FAFSA and any scholarship applications that you may be eligible for. Remember, regarding scholarships, both federal and private, it’s important to keep track of deadlines and be sure that you apply on time to as many programs as you’re eligible for.
If you’re studying in person, be sure to account for any relocation costs and living expenses once you arrive on campus. In making your choice, keep in mind that these expenses are likely to be significantly lower in an online or majority online program.
Quick Guide: FAQs for Forestry Students
How do I know if an online forestry degree is high quality?
There are many things that indicate quality in an online forestry degree program. You can look at academic ranking tables, but also consider availability of support, how long the program has existed, and physical amenities. This is especially important in the case of hybrid or on campus programs, where you may prefer a program with an onsite forest.
Is it important that my online forestry degree be accredited?
It is critical that your program be from an accredited institution. This means that the school has been recognized as meeting certain standards, and gives your degree legitimacy, both to future employers and any other school you choose to apply to. Institutional accreditation, such as the one held by the AAS at Pennsylvania College of Technology, can also add extra prestige.
How long does it take to complete a forestry degree online?
As you have seen above, time to complete an online forestry degree varies substantially depending on the degree type. Generally, an associate degree or a master’s will be the quickest to complete, at two years of full-time study, while a doctorate, which can take five years or more, is the longest. However, time to completion can vary if you choose part-time study over full-time options.
Are there scholarships for online forestry degrees?
In a word, yes. While forestry-specific scholarships, let alone scholarships for online forestry degrees, are a bit rare, there are many scholarship opportunities that you can pursue while you study for your degree. These can be scholarships for your degree level, or for underrepresented student groups if you are a part of them (POC students, LGBT students, etc.). Be sure to do your research and apply by the relevant deadlines.
Can I work while studying my online forestry degree?
Whether or not to work while you’re studying for your online forestry degree will depend on the demands of your degree and the demands of your job. Many online forestry programs are flexible, but can still be very demanding, and whether you will be able to give your program the attention it needs while also holding down a job is something only you can really know.
Your Final Decision
Even after everything you’ve read, it can still be difficult to know if you should start applying for online forestry programs, and which school could be right for you. While hopefully some of your questions have been answered, you should continue to do research, both on forestry, career options, and more, and on any specific programs you’re especially interested in. That said, whichever decision you make, if you’ve explored all your options and considered all the angles, you can trust that it will be the right one for you.
Best-Ranked Online Forestry Programs
While many of the things that distinguish different online forestry programs are neither “good” nor “bad,” and are a matter of personal preference, there are also more specific and objective considerations to bear in mind. This is where rankings come in. These ranking lists consider academic factors, as well as student support resources, financial aid, and more, so have a look at the best online forestry degrees:
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of graduate students at the school taking at least one class online.
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for graduate students per academic year.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio: Schools with lower ratios ranked higher.
- Percentage of students admitted. More selective schools ranked higher.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Gainesville, Florida
The University of Florida's School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatic Sciences offers a Master of Science (MS) in Forest Resources and Conservation, and the program's 30 credits can be completed in-person or online. You will have the option of completing original, graduate-level research if you choose the thesis option for your degree program. Regardless of whether students choose thesis or non-thesis plan, everyone is assigned faculty advisors. The thesis students are assigned three advisors, while non-thesis students are only assigned one advisor. You will also have the option of choosing a specialization in one of several focus areas, including geomatics, natural resource policy and administrtion, and ecological restoration. Interested prospective students should apply online if they have an accredited undergraduate degree.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Forest Resources & Conservation
- Credits: 30
- Length: 1-2 Years
- Cost: $565-$620/credit
- Mode: In-Person, Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
2
Auburn, Alabama
The College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University offers two different online master's degree programs--the Master of Forest Business and Investment, and the Master of Natural Resources. While the former focuses on the forest industry from a business perspective, and the economics of forestry, the latter is an interdisciplinary program which can be personalized to include diverse courses such as forest ecology and businessaspects of natural resources. For both programs, prospective students with an accredited undergraduate degree and a minimum GPA of 2.75 should apply online. Neither degree has a requirement for thesis or GRE score.
Program Highlights:
Master of Forest Business and Investment; Master of Natural Resources
- Credits: 30-31
- Length: 1-2 Years
- Cost: $594 (in-state)-$1,782 (out-of-state)/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
3
Mississippi State, Mississippi
Mississippi State University offers a fully-online Master of Science in Foresty program. The program consists of 30 credits, which focus on the ecological sciences as they pertain to forestry, natural resource management, hydrology, and forestry from a business perspective. Students will also become well-versed in forestry measurements and statistics. All online degree students are eligible for in-state tuition, regardless of residency. Interested students should hold an accredited undergraduate degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and apply online. Applications are open twice per year.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Forestry
- Credits: 30
- Length: 1-2 Years
- Cost: $537/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
4
Columbia, Missouri
5
Fort Collins, Colorado
6
Corvallis, Oregon
7
East Lansing, Michigan
