Restore, Protect and Manage the World’s Forests
Immerse yourself in the world of trees and wildlife as you learn to sustainably manage forest ecosystems and plantations. Our forest management program is fully accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF) and offers students the opportunity to explore a diverse range of subjects, including ecology, soils, sustainable forest management and economics.
In this hands-on program, you’ll take your skills outside the classroom with regular field trips to nearby forests, and graduate prepared to protect wildlife habitats, manage water resources, enhance forest health, produce timber and restore damaged ecosystems.
No. 1 in U.S. Forestry
Ranked the top forestry program in the nation across bachelor, master’s and doctoral degrees (College Factual, 2025).
Global Leader in Forestry
Ranked among the top 1% worldwide, placed at No. 26 in the world (Edurank, 2025).
Career-ready at Graduation
More than 85% of graduates begin jobs in forestry, land management or graduate programs within three months of graduation.
Explore the Curriculum
Whether you’re focused on protecting ecosystems with a concentration in ecology or managing forest resources for industry with a concentration in production, our flexible curriculum allows you to specialize in the area that aligns with your career goals. Popular minors include plant biology, agriculture business management, wildlife, soil science, horticulture and genetics.
“I’ve learned so much through my classes at the College of Natural Resources — from professional development and landowner taxation to the kinds of technical skills that are essential in my forestry career.”
Mary Marriott ’24
Connect with us in-person or virtually through info sessions and 1:1 meetings.
Hands-on Experience that Leads to Jobs
Test your knowledge at our nine-week Summer Practicum following your sophomore year. From mastering forest measurements to exploring fire and wildlife management, it’s an unforgettable journey across the state, including trips to the Croatan and Pisgah national forests, shaping you into a forest steward ready to tackle real-world challenges. But hands-on expereince aren’t limited to summers. You’ll participate in hands-on learning from day one. Other examples include:
- Learn silviculture and forest ecology through field labs in our 93,000 acres of research forests.
- Develop management plans balancing ecology, economics and recreation.
- Use drones, GIS and remote sensing for sustainable forest planning.
“At the core of my soul, I am an outside person. I feel like my happiest, most alive self when I’m in a forest. I’m fascinated by the scientific aspects of ecosystem interactions, but also by how humans have traditionally interacted with the land.”
Gabby Queen ’27
Gain Real-World Forestry Experience
In addition to our Summer Practicum and hands-on classes, you’ll have access to internship opportunities with nearby organizations, including:
- North Carolina Forestry Association
- Hanging Rock State Park
- Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission – Policy and Analysis Division
- North Carolina Estuarine Research Reserve
- Kris Bass Engineering
What can I do with my degree?
Our students graduate prepared for a wide range of professions — from consulting forestry to restoration ecology. In 2025, the median starting salary of graduates with a B.S. in forest management was $48,750 with a 93% job placement rate within three months of graduation. Job opportunities for foresters have been increasing over the last 10 years, with approximately 400 jobs in North Carolina and 12,000 jobs nationally.
Land Conservationist Specialist
Shape the future of forests by creating and leading conservation projects. Recent employers include The Nature Conservancy and the US Bureau of Land Management.
Consulting Forester
Be the expert that landowners trust for managing their forests, from advising on timber sales to wildlife management. Recent employers include Weyerhauser and Georgia-Pacific.
Environmental Biologist
Dive into field research and develop vital strategies to protect wildlife. Recent employers include Rocky Mountain National Park.
Extension Agent
Make a difference in communities by providing essential programs on topics ranging from land management to environmental conservation, with career opportunities at places like NC State Extension.
Certified Forester
Evaluate and manage forest resources to meet both biological and economic goals, working for recent employers like International Paper and Rayonier.
Service Forester
Play a key role in managing forests, enforcing laws, fighting wildfires and educating the public. Recent employers include the NC Forest Service and Alaska Department of Natural Resources.
Timberland Appraiser or Procurement
Navigate the business of forests, assessing and trading timber. Recent employers include J.W. Jones Lumber Company, WestRock, Timbco and Hunt Forest Resources.
Wetlands Specialist
Safeguard water resources and wetland ecosystems, working with recent employers like the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Forestry Technician
Improve the environment while overseeing forest operations from reforestation to habitat improvement, working for organizations like the USDA Forest Service.
Forest Management Specialist
Lead forest management, from mapping to fire control, enhancing forestry practices.
Related Degrees
Interested in getting outdoors but want to expand your focus? Take a look at our Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology degree program, where students step into the world of species identification and conservation strategies.
Program Accreditation
Our Forest Management Program is fully accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF) and is a great fit for students looking for a career that takes them outdoors.
Commitment to Student Support and Professional Ethics
Our college is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students, offering resources through the Office of Culture and Community Excellence to enhance belonging and provide guidance throughout their academic journey. Both this office and the Office of Academic Affairs are available to assist students with concerns or grievances.
Additionally, we follow the SAF Code of Ethics, which serves to protect and benefit society by guiding members in their professional responsibilities. This code inspires and governs our students and professionals as they navigate their careers in forestry and natural resources.
Common Questions (FAQ)
What is forest management?
Forest management prepares students to sustainably manage forest ecosystems and plantations. You’ll learn to protect wildlife habitats, manage water resources, restore ecosystems and produce timber while addressing challenges such as wildfires, pests and climate adaptation.
What types of classes will I take?
Coursework includes ecology, soils, economics and sustainable forest management. Students also gain field experience in forest health, wildlife management and fire ecology.
What concentrations can I choose?
Students choose from two concentrations: ecology, which focuses on natural forest ecosystems, or production, which focuses on forest industry and plantations. Both concentrations prepare graduates for careers in forestry and conservation.
What is the Summer Practicum experience?
After sophomore year, students spend nine weeks at the Summer Intensive, an immersive program held in forests across the state. You’ll study forest measurements, silviculture, fire and wildlife management, and plant community ecology.
What other field experiences are offered?
Students take regular field trips to Schenck Forest, a 245-acre teaching and research forest just 10 minutes from campus. These trips provide training in forest measurements, soil science, ecology and sustainable management.
Do students earn certifications through this program?
Yes. Students often earn certifications such as the Type II Wildland Firefighter certification during summer practicum and other field experiences. These professional credentials strengthen résumés and job opportunities.
What careers can I pursue with this degree?
Graduates work as land conservation specialists, consulting foresters, environmental biologists, extension agents, service foresters and wetlands specialists. Other roles include timberland procurement, forest management, appraisal and restoration.
What is the job outlook for forestry careers?
In 2023, graduates reported a median starting salary of $58,750 with a 93% job placement rate within three months of graduation. Forestry jobs continue to grow, with about 400 openings in North Carolina and 12,000 nationwide.
Who hires forest management graduates?
Employers include government agencies, nonprofit organizations, consulting firms and private companies. Recent employers include the U.S. Forest Service, International Paper, The Nature Conservancy, Georgia-Pacific and the N.C. Forest Service.
Why choose NC State?
The program combines rigorous academics, hands-on experience and professional preparation. It is fully accredited by the Society of American Foresters, and students and faculty follow the SAF Code of Ethics. NC State is also committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment, with resources such as the Office of Culture and Community Excellence available to guide students throughout their academic journey.
The Forest Management Experience
