University of Turin

What you'll study

This three-year undergraduate programme combines core natural science disciplines with applied forestry and environmental topics. You will study forest ecology, silviculture, dendrology and soil science alongside courses in ecology, conservation biology and environmental chemistry. Quantitative and technical skills are emphasised through subjects such as forest mensuration, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, statistics and modelling for natural systems.

Practical, field-based learning is an integral part of the course: students undertake organised field trips to regional forests, participate in forest inventory exercises, learn tree and vegetation identification, and gain experience with sampling and laboratory techniques. The curriculum typically includes modules such as:

• Introduction to Forestry and Forest Ecology — fundamentals of forest structure, function and dynamics.
• Silviculture and Forest Management — methods for establishing and managing forest stands for multiple uses.
• Dendrology and Plant Identification — taxonomy and identification of regional tree and shrub species.
• Soil and Hydrology for Forest Systems — soil properties, nutrient cycles and water processes relevant to forests.
• Forest Mensuration and Inventory — measurement techniques, sampling design and data analysis for forest resources.
• GIS and Remote Sensing — spatial analysis, mapping and use of remote sensing data in landscape and forest assessment.
• Conservation and Biodiversity — protected area management, species conservation and habitat restoration principles.
• Environmental Policy and Forest Economics — governance, legal frameworks and economic aspects of forest and natural resource management.
• Environmental Monitoring and Laboratory Methods — practical lab skills and monitoring approaches for air, water and soil quality.

The programme culminates in an independent project or dissertation, which may be field- or lab-based and often involves collaboration with regional research centres, public agencies or non-governmental organisations. Opportunities for short internships and international exchange are commonly available and encouraged.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised secondary school leaving qualification that grants access to university-level study in their home country. A solid background in mathematics and at least one science subject (biology, chemistry, environmental science or geography) is usually expected. Specific admission procedures may include an application review and, where applicable, evidence of motivation or relevant experience.

Since some teaching may be delivered in Italian, proficiency in Italian is often required for entry to programmes taught in Italian. Where elements of instruction or assessment are delivered in English, evidence of English proficiency (for example a recognised language certificate) may be requested for non-native speakers. International applicants should check language requirements and available support before applying.

Candidates with practical experience in environmental activities, volunteer work, or agricultural/forest sectors may be favourably considered. Those who do not meet all academic prerequisites may be offered preparatory courses or guidance to build required knowledge.

Career prospects

Graduates from this bachelor programme are prepared for a wide range of roles in public, private and non-profit sectors concerned with land, forest and environmental management. Typical career paths include:

• Forest technician or forest ranger working for regional or national forestry services.
• Environmental consultant or technician conducting impact assessments, monitoring and restoration projects.
• Natural resource manager for protected areas, parks and conservation organisations.
• GIS and remote sensing technician in environmental planning, urban forestry or natural hazard assessment.
• Roles in timber and non-timber forest product enterprises, supply-chain sustainability and certification.
• Positions with NGOs, international organisations or local authorities focused on biodiversity, environmental education and climate adaptation.

Many graduates also choose to continue with postgraduate study (master’s level) in specialised areas such as forest management, ecology, environmental science, conservation biology or landscape planning, which can open further opportunities in research, higher-level technical roles and professional registration where applicable.

Why study at University of Turin

The University of Turin is one of Italy’s historic universities with a broad academic portfolio and active research in life and environmental sciences. Studying forestry and environmental sciences at Turin provides access to a mix of classroom instruction, laboratory facilities and extensive fieldwork opportunities in the Piedmont region — from lowland woodlands to Alpine environments — which are well-suited to practical training in forest systems.

The university maintains collaborations with regional forestry agencies, research centres and conservation organisations, enabling applied project work and internship links for students. In addition, students benefit from a multicultural campus, opportunities for international exchange through established mobility programmes, and academic support services that help with language learning, career orientation and research placements.

Overall, the programme offers a practical, interdisciplinary foundation for students aiming to work in forestry, environmental management or to progress to specialised postgraduate study.