Forest Sciences
Forest Sciences majors develop a range of skills that support a variety of occupations. Below are some examples of those skills, as well as a list of sample occupations where those skills may be useful.
These are not exhaustive lists, but they can help you see how your skills as a Forest Sciences major may be relevant in the workplace.
What skills do Forest Sciences majors bring to the workplace?
- A strong foundation in basic biological and environmental sciences
- Knowledge in genetics, soil, weather and climate, tree form and function, ecology, entomology, pathology, silvics, silviculture, and fire science
- Strong knowledge in a specific area of concentration
In addition, as a Forestry student, you develop the ability to analyze problems, identify tools and pathways toward a solution, and communicate results. You may also gain experience working cooperatively within a team of people from a variety of professional, academic, and cultural backgrounds.
What are some career possibilities to consider?
Occupations that Forest Sciences graduates might pursue include:
Forester
- Foresters must have strong management skills and an understanding of the science of forestry to efficiently manage forest harvesting and restoration plans, and to decide on the best locations to build camps and access roads with as little damage as possible to the forest.
- Learn more about becoming a forester at Career Cruising (Campus-Wide Login required).
Forestry Technician
- Areas forestry technicians work in include research, management, harvesting and conservation. Hands-on tasks include monitoring logging activities, forest mapping, collecting information on tree growth and inspecting fisheries.
- Learn more about becoming a forestry technician at Career Cruising (Campus-Wide Login required).
Next Steps
1. Explore your career options
Career Cruising is an online listing of occupational profiles. To explore your career options:
- Log in using your Campus-Wide Login
- Click “Explore Careers” in the left-hand menu
- Type in an occupation to view its profile
- Select the occupation and learn more by clicking the following menu items.
| Menu item | What you’ll learn |
|---|---|
| Job description | Skills and qualifications the employer wants in applicants, and duties/tasks of the position. |
| Education | Educational requirements for the career, including additional training and certification. |
| Earnings | Expected earnings or salary ranges. Note: These are general estimates of salary ranges. Actual salaries vary with your experience and where you work. |
| Working conditions, photos |
The occupation’s work environment. |
| Sample career path | Chart the roles people have taken to help develop the skills and experience necessary for their ideal role, beginning with entry-level positions. |
| Related careers | Other occupations that might be of interest. |
| Other resources | Networks and professional associations that offer opportunities to network, access job postings, volunteer opportunities and more. |
2. Build your portfolio at UBC
Don’t wait until after graduation to get started on your career. As a UBC student, you can get involved in campus work and leadership opportunities that will help you develop transferable skills and experiences invaluable to your post-graduation work search.
Download these great resources:
- Getting involved at UBC (56KB PDF)
- Making time to get involved (55KB PDF)
High-commitment activities
These programs require a greater time investment, but will likely provide more opportunities for personal growth, skill development and learning.
- Forestry Co-op: Gain paid work experience related to your studies.
- Forestry Undergraduate Society: Volunteer and have a voice in your student government.
- UBC Peer Programs: Help other students on campus through one of many programs.
- Go Global: Live and study internationally to gain cross-cultural experience.
- Student Leadership Conference: Join the student planning committee or present a workshop.
- UBC Farm: Volunteer at the University’s farm.
- Work Study and Work Learn: Find an on-campus job related to your studies.
Low-commitment activities
Volunteer to work at an event or simply participate. These work and leadership opportunities are great ways to connect with people, develop new skills, and determine your involvement interests.
- Student Leadership Conference: Attend and develop your leadership potential.
- Career Days: Volunteer at UBC’s largest on-campus career fair.
- Reading Week Project: Contribute to your community during the Reading Week break.
3. Access resources and get informed
Career Services workshops and events: Get feedback on your resumé, learn to network like a professional, practice interviews with employers, and more.
Meet with a Career Educator: Book a 30-minute session for guidance on career planning, job search strategies and career development.
Connect with employers: Check out employer information sessions and the annual Career Days.
