Bachelor's Degree in Forestry
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Forestry is perfect for students committed to conserving natural resources, managing forest ecosystems, and promoting sustainability. This program prepares graduates for careers in forest management, environmental consulting, wildlife habitat conservation, or land-use planning, with expertise in areas such as ecology, silviculture, and natural resource policy.
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Forestry at the University of Kentucky combines science, sustainability, and hands-on fieldwork to prepare students for meaningful careers in managing and conserving forest ecosystems. Accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF), this program offers a strong foundation in forest ecology, natural resource management, environmental policy, and sustainability. Students gain practical experience through small classes, outdoor training, and field-based learning, while also tailoring professional electives to match their individual interests and career goals. Forestry is about more than trees—it's about protecting ecosystems that provide clean air and water, wildlife habitat, biodiversity, recreation, and climate resilience. Whether you're interested in forest health, wildlife management, watershed protection, or environmental consulting, this program equips you with the skills to address today’s environmental challenges. Join a community of students and faculty dedicated to stewarding natural resources for future generations.
Our Accreditation
The University of Kentucky’s Forestry program holds accreditation from the Society of American Foresters (SAF), the leading professional body for forestry education and practice in the United States. This SAF accreditation confirms that our curriculum, faculty, and experiential learning meet rigorous peer-reviewed standards—preparing students for professional licensure, certification, and successful careers in forestry and natural resource management.
Related Careers
The Forestry degree will prepare you for careers that help grow, manage, and protect forest ecosystems. Graduates work in a variety of sectors including private industry, academia, government, and nonprofit, such as:
• Arborist
• Consulting forester
• Forester
• Forest health specialist
• Park ranger
• Research scientist
• Silviculturist
• Urban forester
• Wildland firefighter
• Wildlife forester
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Science in Forestry program focuses on the sustainable management, conservation, and restoration of forest ecosystems. Students study subjects such as forest ecology, silviculture, forest measurements, natural resource policy, and wildlife habitat management. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through fieldwork, lab activities, and applied research, helping students develop the technical and analytical skills needed to understand and manage forest resources in a changing world. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
Register Now
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Tuition Rate
For residents of the states listed below, this program qualifies you to receive the University of Kentucky's in-state tuition rate through the Academic Common Marketplace.
Maryland
Expand Your Learning
There are very few majors that offer as many different opportunities to “learn by doing”, and even fewer that focus on learning in outdoor classrooms and laboratories. For example, during the spring semester of the junior year, forestry majors participate in a semester-long, field-oriented immersion into the practice and application of forestry, wildlife, and natural resource management techniques. The first half of the Spring Field Semester is spent traveling throughout Kentucky and the surrounding region to learn about different ecosystems, land uses, landownership types, and wood industry facilities. The second half of the semester is spent at the university’s 15,000-acre experimental forest in southeastern Kentucky to give students additional hands-on field experience.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the Martin-Gatton CAFE Living Learning Program
Live in a community full of others who share your interests in agriculture, food and environment! Community members also gain access to specialized programs that foster relationships, professional growth, and community.
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
