| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-10-02 | 2023-05-01 |
| 2024-01-08 | 2023-08-01 |
| 2024-04-22 | 2023-11-01 |
| 2023-09-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Tropical Forestry MSc is a part-time program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of modern forest management. The program emphasizes the scientific, academic, and practical principles underpinning forest management, measurement, and ecosystem function, alongside the complex interrelationships between government, industry, communities, forests, and associated land-use. The program is accredited by the Institute of Chartered Foresters and offers a unique opportunity for students across the globe to gain valuable training in tropical forestry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objective:
The Tropical Forestry MSc is a part-time program, designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of modern forest management.
The program emphasizes the scientific, academic, and practical principles underpinning forest management, measurement, and ecosystem function, alongside the complex interrelationships between government, industry, communities, forests, and associated land-use.
Overview: This program offers a unique opportunity for students across the globe to gain valuable training in tropical forestry, focusing on:
- Forest resource management: Understanding the intricacies of managing forest resources sustainably.
- Scientific and practical principles: Grasping the key principles that guide forest conservation, protection, and management.
- Forest ecosystem function: Exploring the intricate workings of forest ecosystems and their role in the environment.
- Interrelationships: Examining the complex interactions between government, industry, communities, forests, and associated land-use.
Study Mode: The Tropical Forestry MSc is offered on a part-time basis, allowing students to balance their studies with work or other commitments. The full MSc can be completed within three years.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Institute of Chartered Foresters, ensuring the quality and relevance of the curriculum.
Study Tour: A key feature of the program is a compulsory 14-day study tour to a country with notable tropical forest resources, providing students with invaluable firsthand experience.
Outline:
Program Structure:
- Part-time: Students can complete the full MSc within three years via part-time study.
- Module-based: The program consists of 120 credit modules, each delivered over a three-month period.
- Distance learning: Course delivery utilizes comprehensive in-house materials, accompanying guides, and web-based support via the Blackboard virtual learning environment.
- Optional assignments: Students can submit optional assignments throughout the modules to receive feedback on their progress.
- Validated exit points: Students can opt to exit the program with a Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits), Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits), or MSc (120 credits and a research dissertation).
- Independent study: Students can choose to complete individual modules as stand-alone courses for personalized learning and professional development.
Module content:
- Social issues in forest management: This module delves into the growing importance of social factors in responsible forest management.
- Agroforestry systems: Students explore the complex challenges and diverse benefits of well-managed agroforestry systems.
- Non-timber forest products: This module focuses on the sustainable use of non-timber forest products and their role in forest management.
- Inventory, assessment, and monitoring: Students learn about the crucial methods for sustainable management of global forest resources.
- Additional modules: The program offers a range of modules covering various aspects of tropical forestry.
Research dissertation (MSc only):
- Students pursuing the MSc undertake a research dissertation, a year-long project under the guidance of an academic supervisor.
- The dissertation focuses on a relevant scientific question, building upon current knowledge and concepts to formulate and test hypotheses.
- The research typically involves fieldwork, data analysis, and writing.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the module but may include:
- Essays: Students write essays demonstrating their understanding of key concepts and critical thinking.
- Examinations: Exams may be used to assess students' comprehensive knowledge of the module content.
- Presentations: Students may present their findings and engage in discussions demonstrating their analysis and communication skills.
- Research dissertation (MSc only): The dissertation is assessed based on the originality of the research, its contribution to the field, and the quality of writing and presentation.
Teaching:
The program benefits from the following teaching methods:
- Experienced faculty: Students learn from leading academics and practitioners in the field of tropical forestry.
- Blended learning: The program combines engaging lectures, interactive online learning materials, and independent study.
- Virtual learning environment: The Blackboard virtual learning environment provides a platform for accessing course materials, communicating with peers and tutors, and submitting assignments.
- Study tour: The firsthand experience gained during the study tour provides invaluable insights and practical learning opportunities.
Careers:
The part-time nature of the program allows students to simultaneously develop their careers in relevant fields. Graduates pursue diverse opportunities in:
- National government
- International organizations
- Consultancies
- PhD research The program also opens doors for various study, travel, scholarship, and research opportunities.
Other:
- The program offers flexibility, allowing students to mix and match modules to suit their individual needs and career goals.
- Scholarships are available for eligible students.
- Regular updates on forestry-related news, jobs, placements, and other opportunities are provided to students.
