Forest Products

The Forest Products degree program at Virginia Tech offers a comprehensive education focused on the science, engineering, and management of forest resources and wood-based industries. This multidisciplinary program prepares students to pursue careers in sustainable forest management, wood manufacturing, product development, and environmental stewardship. Throughout the course of study, students gain a solid foundation in forestry principles, forest biology, timber harvesting, wood science, and forest policies, complemented by specialized training in forest products engineering, products marketing, and business management. Emphasizing sustainable and responsible use of forest resources, the program incorporates cutting-edge research and innovative practices to address the challenges facing the forest industry today, including supply chain optimization, new material development, and environmental conservation. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and experiential learning opportunities such as internships and cooperative education programs with leading forestry and wood products companies. The curriculum is designed to develop technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and leadership qualities necessary for careers in forest product industries, governmental agencies, and research institutions. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to contribute to the sustainable management of forest resources, production of innovative wood-based products, and advancement of environmental and economic goals in forestry sectors worldwide. The degree program supports students' professional growth and prepares them for certification and further study as they enter a dynamic industry that balances economic development with ecological responsibility. Whether students are interested in research, manufacturing, conservation, or policy, the Forest Products program at Virginia Tech provides a robust educational foundation and real-world experiences to launch successful careers in the vital field of forest resources and wood product industries.

Master of Forestry 

The M.F. is a non-thesis degree intended to serve the needs of those who have a prior sustainable biomaterials degree and who wish to enhance their knowledge and skills, or those who have no previous degree in sustainable biomaterials.
In addition to formal course work at the graduate and senior undergraduate levels that is commensurate with the objectives of the student's degree program, a substantive paper worth three to six hours of academic credit is required. A minimum of 33 credit hours in formal course work, inclusive of hours credited towards the degree paper, must be passed with a minimum GPA of 3.0 for courses in the program of study. 
The M.F. student must pass a comprehensive oral examination covering his/her course work and the degree paper. All Graduate School requirements apply to the nature and timing of the candidate's final examination. 

Master of Science 

The M.S. is a research-based degree. Students work closely with a faculty advisor and graduate committee on original research. Advanced coursework is expected in the areas of expertise required to complete the research project. Students complete a thesis and are expected to publish their research results in peer-reviewed scientific journals at the completion of their degree. Graduates are prepared to continue their professional careers or undertake further study through a Ph.D. program. 
All Graduate School requirements apply regarding the number of credit hours and level of courses required on a student's Plan of Study. M.S. students must complete a research working plan by the end of the second academic semester. Guidelines for the preparation and submission of the working plan are listed in the College of Natural Resources & Environment (CNRE) graduate program procedures. 
M.S. students must pass a final exam. The examination will be a defense of the thesis and an assessment of the student's understanding of appropriate related subjects. 

Courses

• SBIO 5004 - Forest Products Graduate Seminar
• SBIO 5124 - Wood Material Science
• SBIO 5224 - Quantitative Wood Anatomy
• SBIO 5324 - Timber Engineering
• SBIO 5424 - Polysaccharide Chemistry
• SBIO 5424G - Adv Polysaccharide Chemistry
• SBIO 5614 - Forest Products Marketing and Management Strategies
• SBIO 5894 - Final Examination
• SBIO 5954 - Study Abroad
• SBIO 5974 - Independent Study
• SBIO 5984 - Special Study
• SBIO 5994 - Research and Thesis

• Transcripts. Include a scanned copy of your college transcripts with your online application, then arrange for an official copy to be sent to us after you receive an offer of admission.
• Letters of Recommendation. Check to see whether your department requires letters of recommendation from references. If so, you can include their email addresses in your online application, or have them send paper copies directly to your program’s department.
• Application Fees. Degree-seeking students must include a $75 fee with their application, though check to see if you qualify for a waiver or reduced fee.
• TOEFL Paper 550.0, Computer 213.0, iBT 80.0
• GRE General Test 
• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• Institution code: 5859

Scholarships

• University Scholarships
• Global Education
• Assistantships

The Forest Products program at Virginia Tech is a comprehensive academic offering designed to prepare students for careers in the forest industry, focusing on the scientific and technological aspects of forest resources utilization. The program combines coursework in forestry, wood science, and engineering principles to provide students with a solid foundation in the management, processing, and marketing of forest products. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, field trips, and internships, fostering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. The curriculum covers key topics such as wood properties and processing, forest management, sustainable harvesting, forest biomaterials, and environmental considerations related to forest product industries. The program also emphasizes the importance of sustainability and responsible resource utilization, reflecting modern industry demands and ecological considerations.

Faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research, contributing to advancements in wood technology, nanotechnology applications in forest products, and innovations in renewable materials. Virginia Tech's state-of-the-art facilities include laboratories equipped for testing wood and composite materials, as well as pilot plants for processing and manufacturing. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for employment in various sectors, including pulp and paper, lumber, engineered wood products, and renewable energy. Many students participate in cooperative education programs and industry partnerships, which enhance their practical experience and employment prospects. The Forest Products program is also connected with alumni networks and professional organizations, providing students with valuable industry connections and career development opportunities. Overall, it aims to produce graduates equipped with the technical expertise, sustainable mindset, and innovative thinking needed to succeed in the evolving forest industry landscape.