Associate of Science Degree in Arboriculture and Community Forest Management
Program Overview
The Associate of Science Degree in Arboriculture and Community Forest Management at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture prepares students for careers in the tree care industry. This two-year program combines classroom instruction with hands-on outdoor labs, preparing graduates for roles with tree care companies, municipalities, and utility arborists. The strong demand for qualified arborists and the above-average wages make this a sought-after field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Associate of Science Degree in Arboriculture and Community Forest Management is a two-year program offered by the Stockbridge School of Agriculture at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. It is the oldest arboriculture program in the country, established in 1893. The program aims to prepare students for a career in arboriculture by providing them with the necessary education and training. The curriculum is based on the latest arboricultural research and includes many outdoor labs to provide hands-on experience.
Teaching:
The program emphasizes hands-on learning through outdoor labs. The curriculum is based on the latest arboricultural research.
Careers:
The program prepares students for a variety of careers in the tree care industry, including:
- Tree care companies
- Municipal or utility arborists
- Starting their own tree care companies The text highlights the high demand for qualified arborists and the strong job market in the field. It mentions that graduates often receive multiple job offers and that wages are above the national average in the Northeast.
Other:
- The program is located at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, which is part of the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
- The program is accredited by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).
- The program offers a strong return on investment, with many graduates starting their own successful tree care companies.
- The tree care industry is facing a critical shortage of trained professionals.
- The program is featured on the website Outside Careers, which highlights successful tree care professionals and the arboriculture and urban forestry professions.
