Program Overview
The University of Connecticut's Urban Forestry and Arboriculture program prepares students for careers in tree care and management in urban environments. The program focuses on the principles and practices of arboriculture, including tree identification, selection, planting, pruning, and disease management. Graduates are prepared for careers in municipal tree departments, utility companies, landscape companies, and other settings. The program emphasizes sustainability, environmental awareness, and professional development.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Overview
The University of Connecticut's Urban Forestry and Arboriculture (AAS) program aims to prepare students for successful careers in the management and care of trees in urban and community environments. The program focuses on the principles and practices of arboriculture, including tree identification, selection, planting, pruning, fertilization, disease and pest management, and tree removal.
Objectives
- Develop a strong foundation in the principles of urban forestry and arboriculture.
- Understand the role of trees in urban and community environments.
- Prepare for professional certification as an arborist.
Program Description
The AAS degree in Urban Forestry and Arboriculture consists of 60 credits of coursework, including a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory exercises, and field experience.
Students will learn from experienced faculty and guest speakers who are experts in their field. The program also provides opportunities for internships and independent study.
Additional details:
- 22
- 6
- Students are encouraged to work closely with their advisors to plan their course of study.
- A final plan of study must be approved by the major advisor and the Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture Director before graduation.
Outline
The AAS in Urban Forestry and Arboriculture curriculum covers a broad range of topics related to tree care and management in urban and community settings.
Course Schedule
The program consists of the following courses:
First Year
- Introduction to Plant Science (SAPL 120)
- Writing (ENGL 100, 1007, 1010, or 1011)
- Mathematics (MATH 1011Q or higher, based on SAT scores)
- First Year Student Seminar (SAAG 250)
- Civic and Community Engagement course (select one from specific options)
- Arts and Humanities course (select one from specific options)
Second Year
- Plant Pest Control (SAPL 810)
- Dendrology (SANR 215)
- Forest Ecology (SANR 255)
- Fundamentals of Arboriculture (SANR 325)
- Urban and Community Forestry (SANR 425)
- Social Science: course (select one from specific options)
- General Education Requirements
Additional Requirements:
- Internship and/or Independent Study Courses (maximum 6 credits)
Modules and Descriptions
The program is organized around the following modules, each focusing on specific aspects of urban forestry and arboriculture:
Module 1: Introduction to Urban Forestry and Arboriculture
- Covers the fundamentals of tree biology, physiology, and identification.
- Introduces students to the history, principles, and practice of arboriculture.
- Focuses on methods for identifying, preventing, and controlling pests in urban settings.
Module 3: Dendrology
- Covers the identification and classification of trees, including both native and non-native species.
- Provides students with the skills to identify trees in the field.
Module 4: Forest Ecology
- Explores the relationships between trees and other organisms in urban forests.
- Examines the impact of human activity on forest ecosystems.
Module 5: Fundamentals of Arboriculture
- Provides students with the hands-on skills necessary to care for trees, including pruning, fertilization, and cabling.
- Covers safe work practices and the use of specialized equipment.
Module 6: Urban and Community Forestry
- Focuses on the planning, management, and maintenance of trees in urban and community settings.
- Explores issues such as tree selection, planting, and removal.
- Examines the social, economic, and environmental benefits of trees in urban areas.
Module 7: Internship and/or Independent Study Courses
- Provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field through internships or independent research projects.
- Allows students to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world situations.
Assessment
The program uses various methods to assess student learning, including:
- Exams and quizzes: These assess students' understanding of concepts and principles covered in lectures and readings.
- Laboratory exercises and assignments: These allow students to apply their knowledge and skills in a hands-on setting.
- Fieldwork and projects: These give students an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to identify, assess, and care for trees in real-world situations. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills through assignments, discussions, and presentations.
Teaching
The AAS in Urban Forestry and Arboriculture is taught by a dedicated team of faculty with extensive experience in arboriculture, forestry, and related fields. The program also draws on guest speakers who are experts in their field. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures: Lectures provide students with an overview of key concepts and principles.
- Laboratory exercises and field work: These activities help students apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.
- Discussions and group work: These encourage students to think critically about course material and share their perspectives.
- Independent study and research projects: These allow students to pursue their interests in more depth. The program is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for successful careers in urban forestry and arboriculture.
Careers
The AAS degree in Urban Forestry and Arboriculture prepares graduates for careers in a variety of settings, including:
- Municipal tree departments
- Utility companies
- Landscape companies
- Consulting firms
- Non-profit organizations
- Government agencies Possible job titles include:
- Tree Climber/Pruner
- Crew Leader
- Arborist
- Urban Forester
- Municipal Forester
- Utility Forester
- Consulting Arborist
- Research Forester The program also prepares graduates for further education in the field, such as pursuing a bachelor's degree in forestry or arboriculture.
Other
The program emphasizes the importance of sustainability and environmental awareness. The program also covers the social and economic benefits of trees in urban and community settings. Additionally, the program encourages students to get involved in professional organizations, such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the Connecticut Tree Wardens' Association, and the Urban and Community Forestry Association of Connecticut (UCFAC). Students also have the opportunity to participate in the UConn Tree Team, a student-run organization that promotes awareness of the importance of trees on campus.
