The MSF includes two tracks: research and professional. The research track prepares students to conduct original scientific research through the development and execution of independent research projects culminating in a thesis. The professional track prepares students for careers in forestry and natural resources through advanced training in forest and natural resource management, policy, and applied professional practice.
Are you happiest when you're outdoors? Would you like to protect the environment for future generations? Do you want to change the world through research? If so, Northern Arizona University can help.
By pursuing an MSF in Forestry, you will acquire the skills to become a forestry researcher and help shape the future of the field. Here, you can delve more deeply into all aspects of forest ecosystems and their management: doing so can also help prepare you for a career in the private sector or with a public land management agency. You will also have the freedom to individually tailor a plan of study that gives you experience in carrying out the kind of research you expect to do throughout your professional career.
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:
Individual degree programs may exceed the baseline University Policy for a master's degree. The program-specific requirements are provided on the Details tab below.
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. |
| Research | Individualized research may be required by chosen emphasis or offered as an option. |
| Progression Plan Link | View Program of Study |
| Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Plan | Optional |
Purpose Statement
The Master of Science in Forestry (MSF) degree offers two tracks and provides advanced education in forestry for students pursuing research-oriented or professional careers. The program is appropriate for students with a bachelor's degree in forestry or closely related disciplines, as well as for those with degrees in other fields who seek to transition into forestry through advanced training.
The research track is designed for students seeking a research-based master's degree that provides direct experience in the design, execution, and interpretation of original scientific research aimed at advancing understanding of forest ecosystems and their management. The track emphasizes training in research methods and statistics, quantitative analysis, and the development and implementation of independent research projects. Students gain experience in addressing novel questions in forestry, communicating findings through professional presentations, and engaging with emerging issues in the field, supported by electives that build advanced disciplinary and analytical skills. The track culminates in a thesis that demonstrates scientific rigor and contributes to the broader knowledge base in forestry and natural resources, preparing graduates for doctoral study and research-oriented careers.
The professional track is a non-thesis option designed for students pursuing careers in the management of natural resources across public, private, and non-profit sectors. This track provides advanced training in forestry with an emphasis on natural resource management and policy rather than original scholarly research. It is also the required pathway for students in the School of Forestry's Accelerated Bachelor's-to-Master's Program, which facilitates completion of both degrees in five years. Students complete their training through a capstone professional portfolio that demonstrates understanding of forestry, with an emphasis on professional writing, ethical practice, and effective communication in professional contexts.
Student Learning Outcomes
Core Forestry Outcomes
Research Track Outcomes
Professional Track 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.
*See the application for details.
For those applying for fall 2027 and beyond, the following will be required:
Recommended
*See the application for details.
This Master's degree requires 32 units distributed as follows:
Take the following 32 units:
Forestry Science Elective Coursework (11 - 12 units)
Track Requirement - Select one (14 - 15 units)
Professional Track (14 - 15 units)
Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.
This program is available as an Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Plan wherein a student may start a master's degree while simultaneously completing their bachelor's degree.
Students enrolled at the Flagstaff campus for both graduate and undergraduate programs are eligible to complete the Bachelor of Science in Forestry and start a Master of Science in Forestry - Professional Track at NAU.
A total of 12 units will be shared between the plans selected from:
Students accepted into the Accelerated Program should complete the same requirements for the graduate degree as defined above.
Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.