Wood science

En choisissant ce baccalaureat, vous aurez les connaissances pour optimiser et ameliorer les produits du bois comme les materiaux de construction qui servent, entre autres, a la conception de batiments verts. Vous participerez a la conception de produits d'ingenierie en bois utiles au quotidien (charpentes, planchers, meubles, portes, fenetres, composites a base de bois) ou encore a la mise en oeuvre d'applications innovantes du bois comme sources d'energie ou de produits verts issus du bioraffinage.Vous etudierez la mecanique, le dessin technique, la structure et la chimie du bois, les charpentes, les adhesifs, les procedes de sechage et de transformation du bois et le genie industriel. Vous acquerrez egalement des competences en mise en marche de produits. Grace a des laboratoires ultramodernes, a une equipe d'experts et a des stages en industrie, vous beneficierez d'une formation novatrice axee sur la pratique.

Field of study: Forest Engineering

Wood Science at Laval University is a comprehensive and multidisciplinary program designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge of the properties, processing, and utilization of wood and wood-based materials. The program combines principles from engineering, biology, and environmental sciences to prepare graduates for careers in the forest industry, manufacturing, research, and sustainable resource management. Throughout the coursework, students explore the biological characteristics of wood, its structural properties, and the environmental factors influencing its growth and durability. They also learn about advanced techniques in wood processing, including mechanical, chemical, and thermal treatments, aimed at enhancing the performance and value of wood products. The curriculum emphasizes sustainability and the development of innovative solutions for the efficient use of wood resources, aligning with efforts to promote eco-friendly practices in the industry. Students gain practical experience through laboratory work, field studies, and internships with industry partners, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. The program also includes courses on wood product design, manufacturing technologies, and quality control, equipping students with skills to optimize production processes and ensure product standards. Graduates of the Wood Science program at Laval University are well-prepared to work in various sectors, including timber production, wood product manufacturing, research and development, and sustainable forestry management. They are also equipped to pursue advanced studies or research positions, contributing to innovations in wood utilization and environmental conservation. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, the program fosters critical thinking, technical expertise, and leadership qualities necessary to address contemporary challenges in the forest industry. The supportive academic environment at Laval University ensures students receive personalized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty members dedicated to advancing the field of wood science.

The Bachelor of Science in Wood Science at Laval University requires completion of a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the scientific principles related to wood and forest products. The program includes compulsory courses in basic sciences such as chemistry, physics, and biology to establish a fundamental understanding of natural materials. Students must also undertake specialized modules in wood properties, wood processing, and manufacturing technologies, covering topics like wood anatomy, wood harvesting, drying, preservation, and manufacturing processes. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable practices and environmental considerations, preparing students to address challenges related to renewable resource management and ecological impacts.

In addition to coursework, students are expected to participate in laboratory work and practical training to develop hands-on skills in wood characterization, testing, and quality control. Courses in project management, economics, and business are incorporated to equip students with interdisciplinary competencies necessary for industry positions and research activities. The program typically includes a final year project or internship, which provides real-world experience and opportunities for research collaboration with industry partners. English proficiency is assumed for the academic and technical language used throughout the program. To graduate, students must successfully complete all required courses, maintain a minimum academic standing, and submit a comprehensive thesis or report as specified in the final year requirements. The overall program duration is four years, with possibilities for specialization in areas such as forest products engineering, wood technology, or environmental sustainability.

The Laval University Wood Science program offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for domestic students are determined by the Quebec government and are generally lower compared to international students. For Canadian residents, annual tuition fees are approximately CAD 3,000 to CAD 4,000. International students may expect to pay between CAD 15,000 and CAD 20,000 per year, depending on the program specifics and course load. Beyond tuition, students should budget for mandatory fees, accommodation, books, supplies, and personal expenses, which can vary widely but typically amount to an additional CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 annually.

Financial aid options available to students include government grants and bursaries, which are often awarded based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria such as geographic origin or field of study. The Quebec government provides scholarships and bursaries for eligible students, including the Fonds de solidarité FTQ and other provincial assistance programs. Laval University also offers internal scholarships based on academic merit, leadership, or involvement in university activities, which students can apply for each year.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding opportunities such as scholarships from industry partners, professional associations related to forestry and wood sciences, or private foundations supporting higher education. Part-time work opportunities on campus and internships can also help students finance their studies. Laval University’s Career Development Office provides resources and guidance for job searching and maximizing employment opportunities during studies.

Additionally, the university participates in federal and provincial student loan programs, which provide low-interest loans and repayment options tailored to students' financial situations. International students may need to seek funding from their home country, such as government-sponsored scholarships or sponsorship programs, and should explore bilateral agreements or international exchange programs that may offer additional financial support.

International students can also consider private loans, though they should carefully review terms and interest rates. Many students combine multiple sources of funding to cover their total expenses. Laval University provides financial counseling services and workshops to help students manage their finances effectively and plan for the duration of their studies in the Wood Science program.

The Wood Science program at Laval University offers students a comprehensive education in the science and technology of wood and wood-based products. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in industries related to forestry, wood processing, and furniture manufacturing. The curriculum emphasizes the understanding of the physical and chemical properties of wood, how to sustainably manage forest resources, and how to develop innovative wood products. Students learn about the processing techniques used to transform raw lumber into finished products, including drying, machining, and finishing processes. The program also covers topics such as wood durability, preservation methods, and the environmental impacts of forest harvesting and processing.

Throughout their studies, students engage in both theoretical coursework and practical laboratory work, providing them with hands-on experience critical for their professional development. The program collaborates with various industry partners to offer internships and cooperative education opportunities, enabling students to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in manufacturing companies, research institutions, government agencies, and consulting firms focused on forest resources and wood products.

Laval University's emphasis on sustainability and innovation is reflected in its approach to teaching wood science, integrating environmental considerations and new technological advancements. The program is supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities that enable students to participate in cutting-edge research projects. Graduates often go on to pursue advanced studies or research roles, contributing to the development of sustainable practices and innovative products in the wood industry. Overall, the Wood Science program at Laval University combines scientific fundamentals with practical skills, positioning its graduates as key contributors to the sustainable development and technological advancement of the wood sector.