Doctoral Degree in Forest and Natural Resource Sciences
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A doctorate in Forest and Natural Resource Sciences is ideal for students passionate about conserving ecosystems, managing natural resources, and addressing environmental challenges like global change and biodiversity loss. This program prepares graduates for careers as environmental researchers, policy advisors, forest managers, or conservation scientists, equipping them with the expertise to manage and protect natural landscapes, guide sustainable resource use, and influence environmental policy at local, national, and global levels.
Program Overview
The Ph.D. in Forest and Natural Resource Sciences program encompasses a wide variety of social and natural science disciplines while addressing issues that range from molecular to landscape and societal levels. This broad scope creates a stimulating atmosphere for graduate education and research, leading to innovative approaches in the sustainable management of forest and other natural resources.
View more information on Forest and Natural Resources Ph.D. program webpage.
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
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Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/12/2025
International
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025
Working as a forester on the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests has been an amazing experience. I have been actively mitigating spruce beetle damage in subalpine stands for sustainable timber products, fuel reduction, and regenerating a healthy new age class. The skills and education that I received in the undergraduate and graduate forestry programs at the University of Kentucky have granted me the opportunity to refine and expand my love for our nation’s forests.
Rachel L.
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Expand Your Learning
Graduate study can be conducted in a variety of disciplines and interdisciplinary topic areas including plant physiology, genetics, forest management, forest soils, economics, invasive species, wood utilization, wildlife biology and management, conservation biology, forest ecology, silviculture, hydrology, natural resource policy, landscape and spatial ecology, restoration ecology (including mine reclamation), and watershed management.
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!
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.
