University of Turin

What you'll study

The programme combines fundamental natural science with applied forest and environmental practice. Core areas include forest ecology, silviculture and stand dynamics, dendrology and plant identification, soil science and hydrology, biodiversity and conservation biology, and principles of sustainable forest management. Training emphasises quantitative skills: statistics, ecological sampling methods, GIS and remote sensing for landscape analysis, and basic modelling of forest growth and carbon dynamics.

Teaching mixes lectures, laboratory classes, computer labs and extensive fieldwork. Students undertake repeated field courses in the Piedmont region and nearby Alpine and pre‑Alpine environments to gain practical experience in mensuration, inventory techniques, silvicultural treatments and restoration measures. The curriculum normally includes a lab project and a supervised final dissertation or applied internship project carried out with a public agency, environmental NGO or private company.

Optional or elective modules may cover forest policy and economics, wood technology and supply chains, climate change impacts on forests, nature conservation planning, and environmental education. Language and communication modules support professional reporting and outreach.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically required to hold a recognised secondary school leaving qualification with a substantial scientific component. Strong preparation in biology, mathematics and at least one laboratory science (biology, chemistry or earth sciences) is recommended. Admissions may require proof of language proficiency appropriate to the language of instruction (Italian for programmes delivered in Italian, or English for any English‑taught tracks), and international applicants should consult the university for recognised certificates.

Some intake procedures include an orientation or placement test to assess readiness for university‑level maths and science; applicants with non‑standard backgrounds may be advised to complete bridging modules. Candidates are also expected to demonstrate an interest in outdoor and fieldwork activities and to meet any health and safety requirements for field courses.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technician and entry‑level professional roles in public and private sectors concerned with forests, natural resources and the environment. Typical career paths include:

• forest and landscape technician or manager in regional forestry services or municipal authorities;
• environmental consultant specialising in forestry, biodiversity assessments, or ecosystem services;
• GIS and remote sensing technician for natural resource monitoring;
• park ranger, conservation practitioner or ecological restoration technician in protected areas and NGOs;
• roles in the timber and wood industry related to resource planning and sustainability;
• research technician or progression to postgraduate study (MSc/PhD) in forestry, ecology or environmental sciences.

Work placements and the programme's practical focus help build contacts with regional agencies, conservation organisations and companies operating in mountain and lowland forest contexts.

Why study at University of Turin

University of Turin offers a long academic tradition complemented by active research in ecology, forest science and environmental management. Its location in Piedmont provides direct access to a rich variety of forest ecosystems—from lowland broadleaves to Alpine conifer stands—allowing extensive hands‑on field training. The university hosts well‑equipped ecology and soil laboratories, GIS and remote sensing facilities, and collaborates with regional forestry services, national parks and research centres.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary links across biology, environmental policy and agricultural sciences, mobility opportunities through European exchange programmes, and a strong network of local employers for internships and applied projects. The programme is designed to combine scientific rigour with the practical skills needed by professionals working in sustainable forest and land management.