Forest Sciences
Bachelor's degree
In Aberdeen
Description
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Type
Bachelor's degree
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Location
Aberdeen (Scotland)
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Duration
4 Years
Facilities
Location
Start date
Start date
Reviews
Course programme
Programme Structure & Content
First Year
Students cover the basic sciences in Biology and Chemistry, and foundation courses including Ecology and Environmental Science, Geology, Plant Ecology and Taxonomy and Sustainable Land Management and two field courses on Plant Ecology and the Forest Environment. Some choice of courses is available in first year depending on entrance qualifications.
Second Year
These courses provide an essential grounding in many fundamental concepts of Forest Science. Subjects include Soil Science, Ecology, Plant Physiology and Diversity, and Research Skills. A field course on Forest Ecology and Management supports what is learned in the classroom. Other course choices are available depending on the particular interests of the students.
Third Year
Third year is a combination of pure and applied sciences where the subjects of forest ecology and stand dynamics are developed. These include Silviculture, Applied Forest Ecology, Forest Measurement, Plant Biogeography and Conservation, Behavioural Ecology, and Experimental Design, Analysis and Skills. Other choices are available depending on the particular interests of the students.
Fourth Year (Honours)
The final year involves the preparation of an individual research project. Students also have the option of preparing a forest management plan; with 3 weeks spent studying a 500 hectare forest where the soils, vegetation and the forest stands are studied. Observations and measurements made are used to prepare a five-year plan that ensures the sustainable management of the forest. Students have to choose four specialist subjects from a wide range of available options that includes Biology & Ecology of Forest Health, Tropical Forest Ecology & Management, Trees in the Urban Environment, Special Topics in Forestry, Plant Biogeography & Conservation, Plant/ Animal Interactions, Nature Conservation in Britain, and Wildlife Conservation & Management. A trip to study forestry in southern Germany completes the programme.
Teaching & Assessment
Teaching is by a combination of lectures, laboratory practicals, tutorials and field visits. Opportunities are provided for verbal and written presentations, and reports, which are related to topics covered. Assessment is by an appropriate balance of examinations and continuous assessment for each course. Students are required to attend field courses, which are assessed as part of the degree.
Additional information
Career opportunities: There is a demand for well-motivated and educated individuals to improve the level of knowledge and understanding of forest ecosystems. This knowledge becomes the basis of sustainable forest management. This degree will give you an opportunity to develop a career in forest conservation, environmental management and research. As a Forest Scientist with a knowledge of forest management, you will be in increasing demand for similar posts, but with an advantage over other graduates in the wider environmental sciences due to the range of subjects and skills acquired.
Forest Sciences