The forestry sector is both one of Australia's largest resource and manufacturing industries, and one of its most diverse. Professional Foresters work from boardrooms to the bush, in conservation and production, and at scales from the paddock to the global. A career in forestry opens up a wide spectrum of opportunities around the world.
Professional Foresters are central to addressing issues to the future of our environment and regional economies, such as:
the management of native forests for conservation and sustainable production
the management of forested landscapes for environmental services
the development of new forms of forestry and forest industries to address land degradation in many parts of Australia
the restoration of our landscapes and to help farmers enhance and diversify their incomes.
What jobs are there?
Employment prospects for Foresters are excellent. Currently in Australia there is high demand for professional forestry graduates who have a 'hands-on' practical understanding of the industry. These graduates should be able to take on leadership and management roles and ensure companies are able to adapt to new knowledge, technologies, commercial pressures and global trends.
The National Forestry Masters Program is designed to develop tomorrow's leaders in forestry. This degree is offered at over five universities across Australia. These courses offer access to the best teaching in forestry in Australia and internationally, plus provide opportunities for internships, research projects and extensive fieldwork.
Possible employers?
State or territory forestry or national parks agencies - maintaining them for current and future generations, usually in partnership with local communities and indigenous Australians
Government - developing policies, representing their State or Australia in national and international meetings, and engaging with stakeholders - locally, nationally, and globally
Private forestry or resource companies - growing and processing forest products for environmentally friendly and sustainable economic development
Community and conservation groups such as Greening Australia - advising farmers, land managers and others who need to grow and manage trees
Universities and research organisations such as the CSIRO - finding new ways to grow, manage and use trees and forests for all their benefits
Guiding corporations and investors - providing advice about assessing risks and managing opportunities
International organisations such as the World Conservation Union, the World Bank and the Centre for International Forestry Research - working to meet the needs of communities around the world.
Institutions offering the National Forestry Masters Program
Students can study full-time, part-time, or for professional development. Degree students can study for a Graduate Certificate (4 courses), a Graduate Diploma (8 courses) or a Masters (16 courses).
All students participate in two joint core courses. The first of these focuses on Australian forests and forestry, and the second on forests and forestry in the region. Both have significant field components in Australia and overseas.
All students also participate in at least one 'partnership' course, offered by one or more institutions with particular strength in that topic. Students can choose more partnership courses if they wish. Industry and research placements are an integral part of the program.
Source: National Forestry Masters Degree Program. (2007). Canberra, ACT: Australian National University. Retrieved June 12, 2008, from the The Australian National University website: http://www.forestry.org.au/masters/index.htm
