Forest Ecology and Sustainable Management

MSC WITH A MAJOR IN FORESTRY SCIENCE OR BIOLOGY

Gain in-depth knowledge of forest ecosystem dynamics and learn how active management influences forest functions and ecosystem services.
Study at one of the world’s top-ranked universities in forest science, learning directly from leading researchers in the field.
Explore forest management based on ecological principles, with a focus on sustainability in the face of global climate change.

Do you want to study Forest Management, rooted in ecological principles and focused on sustainability in the midst of global climate change? Then this is the right program for you. Come and get your degree from the university ranked number 1 in forestry science.

Programme information

This interdisciplinary program combines forest management, ecosystem ecology, ecophysiology, soil science and hydrology to provide young professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute to the development of ecologically, economically and socially sustainable forest management, with a focus on the boreal region – the largest land biome in the world.

This is the ideal degree if you are aiming for a career in applied forest ecology, silviculture, forest management, or a research career within these topics.

In this program, you will learn directly from the researchers who develop forestry science and forest ecology at the cutting edge of their fields.

As a student in the program you have the opportunity to apply, in competition, to the exchange program TRANSFOR-M for your second year of program studies. Within TRANSFOR-M, you have the opportunity to study for a year at one of three partner universities; University of British Columbia, University of Alberta or Lakehead University. After completing your studies, you meet the requirements to apply for a double degree, one from SLU and one from the Canadian university.

Facts and requirements

More information about what supporting documentation is required

Admission: There are two admission rounds for this Master's programme. The first admission round is open to all international applicants at www.universityadmissions.se. SLU strongly encourage all international students to apply in this first admission round.

Content

Within the FESM Master’s program, you will acquire an in-depth understanding of forest ecosystem characteristics and the mechanisms governing the interactions between biotic and abiotic processes, including the influence of active management on forest functioning and forest ecosystem services.

Through studies of vegetation history and historical forest use you will understand the sequence of events that gave rise to today’s forest condition. Then you will focus on the analyses of conventional and novel management measures and forest management systems, and learn to evaluate their consequences for both forest production and ecosystem functions. In the process you will develop skills for evidence-based decision making, to identify future research needs, and to select appropriate tools and methods for research and development work.

You will acquire the specific skills and work with the tools used in forest related research and industries, such as data analysis, modelling, problem identification and solving, decision-making, communication, and writing. The programme also emphasises interactions between students, academic researchers, and professionals within the Swedish forestry and land management sectors and government agencies.

The backbone of the programme consists of four courses in (i) forest history, (ii) forest ecosystem ecology, (iii) silviculture and (iv) sustainable management of boreal forests. During the two-year programme, you are also able to select from a wide range of elective courses to broaden your knowledge in forestry, forest ecology or conservation biology; learn about forestry in other global regions, like the tropics; and develop skills in GIS, statistical modelling or the use of AI and machine learning in forestry.

Welcome to SLU Campus Umeå

SLU’s campus in Umeå offers an inspiring and picturesque learning environment. Surrounded by deep green forests, scenic parks and clear blue lakes, it is easy to see why Umeå is the fastest growing city in Sweden. Known for its youthful and lively atmosphere, Umeå is highly ranked among Swedish students.

Career

Forest Ecology and Sustainable Management graduates are highly competitive in the job market and will have the necessary qualifications for pursuing doctoral studies.

The program is aimed at national and international students aiming for a professional career in the private or public forestry sector. Among others, this includes development departments and staff functions in forestry companies, governmental organisations, consultancies, authorities and universities in Sweden and internationally.