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ESF Academic Catalog
Bachelor of Science in Forest Ecosystem Science

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The Forest Ecosystem Science degree is based on a vision that combines professional competency in forest management skills with an enhanced understanding of ecological sciences. Students interested in this program typically are drawn to natural settings and environments, enjoy nature, and want to understand how forested ecosystems work. ESF provides a wide variety of opportunities to meet student needs utilizing 25,000 acres of forest lands as teaching laboratories. Internships with natural resource-based organizations in the business, public and nonprofit sectors provide additional hands-on experiences. Experiential field learning is combined with learning concepts and skills in the classroom and laboratory on ESF's Syracuse campus.

The undergraduate curriculum in forest ecosystem science consists of two broad categories of courses. The first category, general education, provides students with knowledge and skills that are useful and important for all educated persons regardless of their profession as well as preparation for advanced courses leading to a specific profession. The second category, professional courses, provides students with direct preparation for a career. The first two years of college usually focus on general education and the second two on the professional studies.

The FES program allows students to obtain the professional skills that employers look for in new employees and a deeper understanding of the scientific basis of those skills. These skills are developed through a combination of core courses focusing on biology, ecology, ecosystems, and management. The forest ecosystem science degree offers a wide variety of employment opportunities. Graduates work throughout the United States in public agencies, private industry, and for nonprofit organizations. They also are well prepared to enter graduate programs in management of forest and natural resources, ecological research, or other areas of applied forest biology.

Forest ecosystem science offers a wide variety of employment opportunities. Graduates work throughout the United States in public agencies, private industry, and for nonprofit organizations. They also are well prepared to enter graduate programs in management of natural resources, ecological research, or other areas of applied forest biology.

The educational program, leading to the professional Bachelor of Science degree in Forest Ecosystem Science, is accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF) under Forestry.

Lower Division Required Courses

Course Number Course Codes * Credits
APM 105
APM 391
EFB 101
EFB 102
EFB 103
EFB 104
ESF 200
EWP 190
EWP 290
FCH 150
FCH 151
FCH 152
FCH 153
FOR 132
FOR 207
FOR 232
FOR 332
FOR 360
PHY 101

 

Upper Division Required Courses

Course Number Course Codes * Credits
EFB 336
ESF 300
FOR 304 S
FOR 313
FOR 322
FOR 323
FOR 334
FOR 345
FOR 465
FOR 492
FOR 493

Elective Courses

Course Codes* Credits
Directed Electives: Biophysical Science PE 12
Directed Electives: Management and Human Dimensions PE 9
Free Electives   14
General Education Course in one of the following categories: US History
& Civic Engagement, The Arts, World History and Global Awareness,
World Languages
G 3
General Education Course in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice G 3

 

Students should consult with their advisors and read the Sustainable Resources Management Handbook for lists of courses that can be elected to meet degree requirements.

Total Minimum Credits For Degree: 124