Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The PhD in Forestry is centred on independent, original research and advanced coursework tailored to each student's research agenda. Common areas of study include forest ecology and ecosystem dynamics, wildfire science and restoration, silviculture and stand dynamics, forest hydrology, landscape ecology, forest biometry and quantitative methods, remote sensing and GIS applications for forestry, forest policy and natural resource economics, and wood products and forest operations.

• Coursework: Advanced seminars and methods courses in statistics, modelling, GIS/remote sensing, and specialised topical seminars (for example fire ecology, restoration ecology, or restoration practice).
• Research: Development and completion of a doctoral dissertation that contributes new knowledge to forestry or associated disciplines; field- and laboratory-based investigations are common.
• Milestones: Qualifying examinations or candidacy assessment, an approved dissertation proposal, and a final dissertation defence.
• Practical experience: Opportunities for teaching, extension, and applied research projects with regional land managers, government agencies and non-governmental partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master's degree (for example in forestry, ecology, natural resources, environmental science or a closely related discipline) or strong evidence of equivalent research preparation. A competitive academic record, demonstrated research experience, and a clear statement of research interests are essential.

• Academic credentials: A master's degree in a related field or a bachelor's plus substantial research experience in lieu of a master's.
• Research experience: Prior thesis work, publications, research assistantships or equivalent experience that demonstrate readiness for doctoral research.
• Application materials: Research statement/proposal, curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation, and academic transcripts; some applicants include a writing sample or publications.
• English language: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted tests or institutional exemptions where applicable.
• Faculty match: Admission depends on identifying faculty with overlapping research interests and available supervision and funding.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in Forestry pursue a wide range of careers where advanced research and quantitative skills are required. Common paths include academic positions (tenure-track faculty and research scientists), leadership roles in federal and state natural resource agencies, scientific positions with the US Forest Service and other land management organisations, research and technical roles in environmental consultancies, non-governmental organisations focused on conservation and restoration, and positions in natural resource policy, carbon and ecosystem services markets, and industry research and development.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers a forestry doctorate within a setting that combines strong applied research ties and distinctive field environments. The university is closely connected to regional research infrastructure—such as experimental forests and applied restoration programmes—and collaborates with institutes and agencies engaged in forest health, fire ecology and landscape restoration. Students benefit from hands-on field opportunities, access to GIS and remote sensing facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration across ecology, hydrology and social sciences, and mentoring from faculty with expertise in both fundamental and applied forest science.