International Management of Forest Industries

The International Management of Forest Industries Bachelor's degree program at Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the global forestry and wood industries. This program combines core business management skills with specialized knowledge in forest and wood technology, providing students with a unique interdisciplinary perspective essential for managing complex operations in the forestry sector. Throughout the course, students will engage with topics such as sustainable forest management, wood processing technologies, supply chain management, environmental protection, and international trade. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills through internships, project work, and collaborations with industry partners, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of an evolving market. The program also fosters intercultural competence and language proficiency, preparing students to operate effectively in international environments. Students will learn about the economic, ecological, and social aspects of forest management, gaining a deep understanding of sustainable development principles and their application in real-world scenarios. The program aims to develop responsible leaders who can innovate and implement sustainable solutions within the forest industries, contributing positively to environmental conservation and economic stability worldwide. Upon graduation, students will be prepared for careers in forestry companies, international trade organizations, environmental agencies, and consultancy firms, among others. Recognized for its practical orientation and international focus, the International Management of Forest Industries program at Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences is ideal for students passionate about combining business acumen with forestry expertise to build a sustainable future.

Educational organisation

The programme can be started in the winter and in the summer semester. The summer semester is spent entirely in Weihenstephan and the winter semester in Zollikofen. The third semester is reserved exclusively for working on the Master's thesis.
Students enrol at one of the partner universities, where their record as a student is registered until the end of their studies. In the case of a change of study location, a re-enrolment is not necessary, as such a change is organised as an exchange semester.

Study abroad unit(s)

Besides the two study locations in Germany and Switzerland, students have the possibility of writing their Master's thesis in companies abroad.

Forms of assessment

In accordance with the substantive requirements, different types of tests are applied in the modules. These range from a written examination or assignments to project work.

Course objectives

The objective of the studies is to provide management skills that will enable graduates to successfully occupy management positions in various companies in the forestry and wood processing industry at home and abroad.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English and German skills.

For applicants whose native language is German:
English: TELC B2 or equivalent

For applicants whose native language is English:
German: TELC B2, Goethe certificate B2 or equivalent

For applicants whose native language is neither German nor English:
Proof of both languages, English at level B2, German at level B2

Proof of language skills has to be submitted by the end of the first semester at the latest.

Academic requirements

The admission requirement is a recognised Bachelor's degree in the fields of Forestry, Timber Industry or Management of Renewable Energy, with the final grade "good". The admission of candidates with other Bachelor's degrees takes place on an individual basis.

Enrolment fees

The semester fee amounts to about 110 EUR and includes a semester ticket for public transport in Munich.

Costs of living

The cost of living is about 800 to 900 EUR per month.

Job opportunities

During the lecture period, students from EU and EEA countries and from Switzerland are not allowed to work more than 19 hours per week.
Students from other countries are allowed to work a maximum of 120 full days or 240 half days per year in Germany. Student jobs at the university, in university-oriented or scientific institutions are not set off against such days.

Arrival support

For students from abroad, there is a mentoring system with German students.

Services and support for international students

The point of contact for international students is the International Office (Auslandsamt) of Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences.

Accommodation

In Weihenstephan, the accommodation pool of the Faculty of Forestry can be used to look for private rooms and, upon timely notification, the Swiss University of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences will take care of accommodation needs in Zollikofen.