Forest Science and Management

The Master of Forest Science and Management is a postgraduate qualification in plantation and natural forest management. Concerns about climate change, carbon sequestration and environment-friendly building materials have rekindled the demand for professional forest managers. Worldwide, forest management is becoming more intensive, with many forest products traded internationally as commodities. As a result, forest management agencies now require foresters with enhanced skills in strategic planning and management, which are both features of this course.

The course structure is flexible to accommodate students who are interested in operational forestry or those who wish to pursue a research career.

Forestry units involve fieldwork in eucalypt forests, rainforests, plantations and on farms. The course provides targeted forest science and management education and training. It includes studies in natural resource management, measuring trees and forests, fire ecology and management, plant physiology and ecology, wood science, forest operations, silviculture, forest health and pest management.

Students enrolled in the Masters course can also select to undertake a minor thesis, research project, or pilot study, and choose from a range of elective units including financial, strategic and project management.

Core

• Measuring Trees and Forests
• Native Forests Silviculture
• Fire Ecology and Management
• Plantation Silviculture

Electives

• Extension and Professional Practice in Natural Resource Management
• Forest Modelling and Management
• Forest Operations
• Plant Physiology and Ecology
• Forest Health: Pest and Disease Management
• Wood Science and Utilisation
• Agroforestry and Farm Forestry
• Natural Resources Policy
• Product Development and Marketing
• Protected Area Management

Electives

• Accounting for Managers
• Minor Thesis (Part 1 of 2)
• Minor Thesis (Part 2 of 2)
• Postgraduate Independent Study - Science I
• Entrepreneurship and Marketing
• Project Management
• Organisational Behaviour
• Strategic Knowledge Management
• Leading and Managing People
• Corporate Governance
• Quantitative Research Methods
• Land Degradation and Rehabilitation
• Environment and Development
• Environmental Governance
• Wildlife Conservation
• Geographical Information Systems
• Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis
• Postgraduate Independent Study - Science I
• Postgraduate Independent Study - Science II
• Postgraduate Independent Study - Science III
• Postgraduate Independent Study - Science IV

Requirements

1. Qualification equivalent to an Australian Bachelor degree. 
2. All applicants must have an assessable entry qualification from a country where English is the main language and where the medium of instruction for that qualification was English, or demonstrate proficiency of English by an IELTS overall score of 6.0 with no less than 5.5 across each of the bands of reading, writing, speaking and listening.
3. Applicants from Russia and CIS  need to go through an Education Agent.
4. Certified copy of academic transcripts (including grading system).

The financing options for the Forest Science and Management program at Southern Cross University are designed to support students in achieving their academic and career goals. Students can explore a variety of funding sources including government-funded schemes such as FEE-HELP, which is a student loan scheme that allows eligible domestic students to defer part or all of their tuition fees. This option provides flexibility by enabling students to manage their finances over the duration of their studies without the immediate financial burden. Additionally, the university offers scholarships aimed at students pursuing studies in environmental sciences, forestry, and related fields. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as leadership qualities or community involvement. Applicants should regularly check the university’s official scholarships webpage for up-to-date information on available funding opportunities, application procedures, and deadlines. International students have different financial arrangements; they are generally responsible for paying their tuition fees upfront or through approved payment plans, as FEE-HELP is not available to them. Private financial institutions also offer study loans and bursaries which students might consider to finance their degree. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external sponsorships, government grants, or industry-funded scholarships, particularly for research projects or internships that are integral to the program. The university provides financial counseling and resources to help students plan and manage their finances effectively throughout their studies. Some students might be eligible for part-time work opportunities on or near campus, which can assist in covering personal expenses. Overall, the program’s financing structure is designed to be flexible and supportive, ensuring that qualified students can access quality education without undue financial hardship.

The Bachelor of Forest Science and Management at Southern Cross University is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for careers in sustainable forest management and conservation. The program covers a broad range of topics including ecology, forest biology, environmental management, and resource assessment, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to address contemporary challenges in forest environments. Students learn about sustainable harvesting, forest policy, and spatial analysis, integrating scientific principles with practical application. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience through fieldwork and projects, fostering an understanding of forest ecosystems and their management in real-world scenarios. The program also offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as forest ecology, resource management, and environmental policy, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests or career goals. Graduates of this degree often pursue careers in government agencies, environmental consulting firms, non-governmental organizations, and private forestry companies. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills vital for effective management and decision-making in forestry and environmental sectors. Southern Cross University supports an active learning environment with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, field stations, and research facilities. The program also emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and the role of forests in combating climate change, promoting environmental stewardship among students. In addition to technical knowledge, students gain insights into legal and ethical considerations related to forestry and land use. The duration of the program typically spans three years for full-time students and offers flexible study options to accommodate working professionals. Graduates are well-positioned to contribute to the sustainable management of forest resources, ensuring ecological health and economic viability for future generations.