To receive a master’s degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject areas, consisting of at least 30 units of graduate-level courses. Many master’s degree programs require more than 30 units.
You must additionally complete:
Read the full policy here.
In addition to University Requirements:
| Minimum Units for Completion | 32 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required. |
| Emphasis or Coursework Required | An emphasis or coursework is required for this degree. |
| Thesis | Thesis is required. |
| Oral Defense | Oral Defense is required. |
| Research | Individualized research is required. |
| Progression Plan Link | View Program of Study |
Purpose Statement
The Master of Science in Forestry (MSF) degree is intended for students wanting to pursue a research- and thesis-based Master’s degree that provides direct experience with original scientific research aimed at advancing scientific understanding of forest ecosystems and their management. The intensive research core of the MSF prepares students for doctoral programs in Forestry and related disciplines, and for careers that require experience and skills in planning, executing, and interpretation of original research in Forestry. These careers include positions such as research assistant/technician, forester, wildlife biologist, policy analyst, and forest health specialist. The MSF is appropriate for students with a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry or closely related disciplines.
The MSF emphasizes training in research methods and statistics; original research development and implementation; quantitative analysis; professional presentations; emerging issues in forestry; electives that provide advanced training in specific skills; and a final thesis that showcases the student’s skills in original research, quantitative analysis and interpretation, and writing.
Emphasis in Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology (EECB)
The MSF includes an optional multi-disciplinary emphasis in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology (EECB). The EECB emphasis provides a structured curriculum for students wanting to focus on ecology and conservation biology within the context of forest science. The course requirements of the EECB are designed to be taken as elective hours within the MSF degree.
Student Learning Outcomes
Core Forestry Outcomes
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
This Master’s degree requires 32 units distributed as follows:
Take the following 32 units, as well as any required remedial coursework:
Of the following course requirements, 17 units must be in FOR courses
Forestry Common Requirements (12 units)
Elective Coursework (12 units)
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.