Go to programs search

Overview

The Master of Science in Forestry (MSc) is a research (thesis) based Master's program. Students receive training in research techniques, and also make contributions in their own right to the body of knowledge. The type of work undertaken by an MSc in Forestry student tends to be focused, looking at a specific problem, and is generally completed within 2-3 years.

$24,195
Net funding per year*
107
Enrolled students
82.5%
Graduation rate
2.9
Average years to completion
* 50% of students receive this amount of funding or more per year in the first 2 years after deducting tuition and fees.

What makes the program unique?

We have approximately 85-95 thesis-based master’s students in any given year, which is about 30% of our total Forestry graduate student population. In addition to being part of the Faculty of Forestry, MSc students are also considered members of one of our three Faculty departments, based on their supervisor’s affiliation.

The Faculty of Forestry offers excellent courses and cutting edge research across a spectrum of disciplines related to forestry, and opportunities for interdisciplinary learning. Graduate students work with leading scientists in state-of-the-art facilities within the Forest Sciences Centre and at any of two research forests. We are one of the largest graduate units on campus, with over 300 students enrolled in our 7 degree programs. We attract students from around the world, with over 40 countries represented in our community. Given the global nature of modern forestry, the experience our students gain by working with colleagues from around the world is a subtle but effective means of creating the global citizens that UBC aspires to produce.

Program Structure

The MSc in Forestry program requires completion of a thesis, a Forestry oral communications course (FRST 544 or approved alternate), and other approved courses for a total of 30 credits. Thesis work can be worth 6, 12, or 18 credits, with the corresponding number of course credits adjusted accordingly. In addition to FRST 544, FRST 545 (Scientific Writing) is recommended for all international students. FRST 547 (Forestry in BC) is strongly recommended for all students from outside of British Columbia, or from non-forestry backgrounds.

Thesis credit weight and courses are selected at the start of your program, in consultation with your supervisor. The master’s defense must be successfully passed, and the completed master’s thesis must meet the requirements of the Faculty of Graduate & Post-doctoral Studies. Time in program for Forestry MASc/MSc students varies, depending on the nature of the student’s research. The average timeline is 3 years

Apply Now

Apply for
If you don't have a UBC Campus-Wide Login (CWL) please create an account first.

Intake

Application Open Date
Canadian Applicant Deadline
International Applicant Deadline

Program Enquiries

Still have questions after reviewing this page thoroughly?
Contact the program

Supervisor Search

Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form.