The management option focuses on the biological, ecological and economic characteristics of forests and society. Students gain knowledge and experience in active forest management, including monitoring the health of forests and natural resources, maintaining species inventory, timber cruising, planning and executing harvesting operations, focusing on conservation and sustainability of natural resources such as wildlife, and protecting the forest from harmful weeds, insects, disease, erosion and fire.
Forestry Management, Associate of Science
The Forestry Management Associate of Science (AS) degree provides students with an introduction to the technical and scientific knowledge related to the field of forestry and forest management. This set of classes satisfies the requirements for an AS degree and also meets the lower division requirements at Oregon State University (OSU) for a Bachelor of Science in Forestry. There is a signed articulation agreement with the Forestry Department at Oregon State University that allows students who complete this AS degree and two additional courses to enter OSU as a junior in the forestry program.
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 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:
- Integrate technical field skills with analytical skills to identify important forest management challenges and identify potential solutions for these problems.
- Explain and discuss important current issues, and social and political components of forest management in the United States and other countries.
- Demonstrate basic skills in forest surveying, recreation management, soil science, remote sensing, geographic information systems, and spreadsheet applications.
- Identify important tree species in the Pacific Northwest.