Bachelor of Forestry Science

The Bachelor of Forestry Science (BForSc) is a professional degree that prepares graduates for managing forest resources by combining core science courses with management, commerce, and technology. Forestry Science graduates are highly sought after by employers and follow exciting and rewarding career paths.
Small class sizes create a high-quality learning environment.
UC has field stations located near Arthur’s Pass and at Kawatiri Westport for forestry teaching and research.
Participate in an exchange programme with top forestry schools in Canada and the United States.
With strong employer links, the majority of graduates are employed before finishing their degree.
Benefit from hands-on learning with 90 days industry work experience.
Gain skills in forestry management, sustainability, marketing, and research.
Graduates are working in forest management, conservation, harvesting, wood processing, biosecurity, policy, iwi advisory, and more.

Applicants must have completed New Zealand University Entrance through NCEA; or Cambridge International Examinations (CIE); or International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) or any other equivalent overseas qualification.

Recommended preparation

The BForSc is open to everyone who gains entry to the University. It is recommended that you take NCEA Level 3 biology and maths (including statistics and probability) or the IB/Cambridge equivalent.

If you have not studied Year 13 statistics, you should consider enrolling in a Headstart preparatory course over summer.

Fast-track option

You may be able to fast-track your degree and be exempt from some first-year courses or gain direct entry to the second year if you have excellent NCEA Level 3 results (or equivalent study) in relevant subjects.

Applicants must also satisfy our English language entry requirements:

IELTS: Academic with an average score of 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
TOEFL (IBT): Total minimum score of 80, with at least 19 in reading, writing and listening.
PTE (Pearson Test of English - Academic): PTE with an overall score of 50 and no PTE communicative skills score below 42.
CAE or CPE: Minimum score of 169 with at least 162 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
CCEL EAP: Level 2 with a minimum C+ grade.
Language Cert: B2 Communicator (LRWS) overall with High Pass.

Applications after the deadline date (8 December) will be considered if places are available.