Master's Degree in Forest and Natural Resource Sciences
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A master’s program in forest and natural resource sciences is ideal for individuals passionate about conserving ecosystems and managing natural resources sustainably. Graduates often pursue careers as forest ecologists, conservation scientists, or resource managers, specializing in areas like wildlife management, forest ecology, and environmental policy.
Program Overview
The Master’s in Forest and Natural Resource Sciences provides advanced, research-based training in the sustainable management, conservation, and restoration of forests and natural ecosystems. Students work closely with faculty on pressing environmental challenges related to global change, biodiversity, water resources, and land use. With the flexibility to specialize in areas such as ecology, silviculture, wildlife management, or forest economics, graduates are prepared for impactful careers in natural resource management, environmental consulting, conservation organizations, government agencies, and further academic research.
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.
Please view more information on the Forest and Natural Resource Sciences 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!
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!
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