Master of Forestry

The Master of Forestry at the Australian National University (ANU) offers advanced study into the science, management, and sustainability of forests, catering to those passionate about natural resource management and conservation. Delivered in Canberra—a hub for environmental research, policy, and access to diverse forest ecosystems—the programme blends theoretical knowledge with practical skill development across forestry science, policy analysis, forest ecology, and sustainable resource management. The Australian context ensures students engage with issues pertinent to both native and plantation forestry, balancing environmental stewardship with economic and social factors.

This two-year master’s degree is structured around multiple semesters, with students typically undertaking a set number of units of study per term to accumulate sufficient credit points for graduation. The curriculum often incorporates a mixture of core and elective units, allowing customisation according to interests such as conservation, remote sensing, or international forestry policy. Many programmes at this level culminate in a capstone project or research thesis, enabling students to apply their learning to a real-world forestry problem, often in collaboration with industry, research bodies, or government departments. Work-integrated learning or professional placements can form an important component, reflecting the strong interest from Australian employers in graduates with practical experience alongside academic expertise.

Throughout the Master of Forestry, students build high-level skills in forest assessment, geographic information systems, resource analysis, forest economics, policy development, and natural resource planning. Graduates learn to develop management strategies for sustainable forestry, write technical and policy reports, and communicate complex concepts to a range of stakeholders. The programme particularly suits graduates from science, environment, or related backgrounds who wish to enter or advance in the forestry sector, or who aspire to research, policymaking, or consulting roles.

Students benefit from ANU’s industry links and research-active teaching staff, as well as opportunities for field studies and projects within Australian and international contexts. International students can use the Master of Forestry as a stepping stone to the Australian workforce, with access to work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. Graduates may also be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream to broaden their career prospects in Australia. Prospective applicants should confirm all programme details, including the latest admission, structure, and opportunities, via the official university page.

• Forest manager in public or private sectors
• Environmental consultant in resource management or conservation
• Forest policy analyst or adviser in government agencies
• Natural resource planner or GIS specialist
• Research officer in universities or research institutes
• Forestry supply chain or certification coordinator
• Roles in Australian federal, state, or territory governments, consulting firms, NGOs, and forestry companies