University of Padua

Overview

The Global Forestry (GloFor) programme is a prestigious two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s course designed to equip graduates with the skills needed to tackle critical forestry challenges, including biodiversity loss and climate change. This interdisciplinary programme combines advanced research methodologies, practical field-based experiences, and policy-oriented training to promote sustainable forest management on a global scale.

What you'll study

The curriculum of the Global Forestry programme is structured around thematic modules and hands-on learning experiences. Students will gain foundational knowledge in sustainable forestry practices and develop specialized expertise through targeted coursework and fieldwork preparation.

Core learning areas (tracks)

• Global Forestry and Climate Change — Focus on climate impacts, mitigation and adaptation strategies, and the interactions between forests and climate.
• Global Forests and People — Explore the social dimensions of forestry, including governance, livelihoods, and the relationships between humans and forests.
• Preparing Global Forestry Fieldwork — Learn methods for planning, conducting, and analyzing field studies within forest environments.
• Systems of Sustainable Forest Management — Examine approaches, standards, and the implementation of sustainable management practices.

Applied components

• Fieldwork and practical training — Connect theoretical classroom learning with real-world forestry applications.
• Integrative assessments — Combine scientific reasoning with practical problem-solving skills.
• Capstone / final project — Conduct a culminating project or thesis that aligns with the programme’s research and fieldwork themes.

Entry requirements

To be considered for the Global Forestry programme, applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree that is relevant to the field. Acceptable academic backgrounds include:

• Bachelor’s degree in general academic disciplines such as agriculture, biology, economics, geography, or forestry from recognized universities.
• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Geography and Geoinformatics, Natural Resources, or Economics from the University of Copenhagen.
• Professional Bachelor’s degree in Forest and Landscape Engineering or Urban Landscape Engineering from the University of Copenhagen.

In cases where the number of qualified applicants exceeds available spots, selection will be based on academic excellence, specifically the grade point average (GPA) from the qualifying Bachelor’s degree.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Global Forestry programme will be well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in environmental management, conservation, policy development, and sustainable forestry practices. Alumni may find roles in governmental and non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and private enterprises dedicated to forestry and environmental sustainability, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change and promote biodiversity conservation.