Author:
William Ramirez
Date Of Creation:
19 September 2021
Update Date:
19 June 2024
Content
If you enjoy working outdoors, care about the environment, and endure physical activity and activity, a career in forestry might be great for you. The US is expected to continue to watch for 12 percent growth in foresters' jobs. So if this sounds like a potential career, then getting information on how to become a forester might be a good tool for your future.
Steps
1 Research the career requirements of a forester in the area where you want to work. In most cases, a forester should have a bachelor's degree in forestry, natural resource management, and other related fields. However, if you will be working for the federal government, experience and education in other areas can replace a degree. 
2 Purchase information on college admissions. Forestry is offered by most agricultural universities and colleges. There are 50 degree programs in the United States that are accredited by the Society of American Foresters. 
3 Register for a forestry program at an accredited university or college. Upon registration, you will participate in courses that focus on public policy, forest management, forest biology and ecology. You will also need to earn credits in other sciences and mathematics such as taxonomy, computer science, statistics, and GPS technology. Your consultant can help you design a schedule to meet all program needs. 
4 Complete a session in the field or an internship. During your coursework, you will most likely need to take part in hands-on experience. This can take place within a campus established by the college, or through a work-study program as an independent entity. 
5 Look for summer jobs in a forestry-related field. Those wishing to become a forester are encouraged to take appropriate summer jobs while pursuing their education. The experience will come in handy later when filling out the resume. 
6 Apply for a job. When you're at the end of your bachelor's degree program, it makes sense to start taking an interest in jobs. Check out federal, state, local parks, recreation commissions and governments, which account for 60% of all forestry careers. 
7 Request a licensing if you live in one of the 16 states that offer it. Most states require members to have a 4-year forestry degree and years of experience in the field. You may also be asked to take an exam. 
8 Advance your career as a forester through certification. The Society of American Foresters and the Society for Agricultural Management offer certification. - The Society of American Gardeners requires an exam after a candidate has earned an accredited college diploma and 5 years of experience.
- Agricultural Management Society certification requires passing an exam after earning a degree in forestry and at least 6 years of work experience.
Tips
- While all states offer careers as a forester, most of the jobs in this area are in the western and southeastern states. These areas are home to the predominant number of national, private forests and parks, as well as forests for sawnwood and pulpwood production.
- If you want to teach or take a leadership position, then you will need an advanced degree. Many companies prefer teachers and managers to hold a doctorate.
What do you need
- Bachelor's Degree in Forestry
