Renewable Materials is a multidisciplinary program that prepares students to work with renewable, plant-based materials to solve challenging world problems. Renewable materials such as wood, bamboo, canes, and agricultural fibers are examined to understand their characteristics and how to make useful products. Students gain broad perspectives on current issues associated with the sustainable utilization of renewable materials, including global trade, business innovation, energy production, and environmental impacts.

Students in the art and design option are concerned about wood products on an aesthetic level. This option prepares students to engage with renewable materials on an aesthetic level, whether as interior designers, fine artists or entrepreneurs. Students will gain an in-depth knowledge of how renewable materials can function visually within the human space. In addition, students will achieve an understanding of green building materials and green architecture.

This degree was designed to transfer to Oregon State University's College of Forestry. Other transfer options may be available, consult your advisor for details. 

The forestry field is projected to have many career opportunities coming up in the next decade as many forestry and natural resources professionals retire in the next few years. Students who enjoy working outdoors and want to have a career that focuses on managing our valuable forest lands to conserve and protect resources as well as produce valuable products for society should consider this degree.

Graduation Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 90 credit hours with a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 or better. All courses must be completed with a grade of 'C' or better. Twenty-four (24) credits must be completed at Southwestern before the AS degree is awarded.

Courses that are developmental in nature, (designed to prepare students for college transfer courses), are not applicable to this degree.

Complete the graduation application process one term prior to the term of completion (e.g., spring term graduates must apply during winter term).

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate fundamental knowledge of wood and similar renewable materials that make them challenging to utilize as industrial and building materials.
• Demonstrate command of renewable material moisture content and specific gravity calculations.
• Demonstrate ability to find, compile, analyze, and communicate technical communication.
• Demonstrate familiarity with the diverse complexity of the Renewable Materials industry, and the challenges it faces with balancing business and environmental goals.
• Demonstrate a combination of technical and business acumen that allows effective management of process and people.
• Demonstrate ability to creatively self-direct learning outcomes within the classroom environment and/or through independent undergraduate research.
• Gain information and knowledge to become a better global citizen.

Math and writing placement are unique to each student and are determined during the admissions and intake advising process.  Additional math or writing courses may be required prior to taking the math or writing program requirements in this degree. For more information on placement methods used, visit our college placement policy here.

Program Guide