Forest Technology/Technician
Total graduates
200
2025 · 29 schools
International share
0.0%
0 international students
Overview
Forest Technology/Technician is a specialized field that focuses on the sustainable management and conservation of forest resources. This program typically combines principles of forestry, ecology, and environmental science, equipping students with the skills necessary to assess forest health, manage wildlife habitats, and implement conservation practices.
Students in this program learn about various topics including forest ecology, silviculture, forest inventory techniques, and the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping and analyzing forested areas. The curriculum often includes hands-on training in the field, where students gain practical experience in tree identification, soil analysis, and the assessment of forest ecosystems.
Graduates of Forest Technology programs are prepared for careers in a variety of sectors including government agencies, environmental organizations, and private forestry companies. They may work as forest technicians, conservation officers, or environmental consultants, among other roles. Their work is crucial in addressing challenges such as deforestation, climate change, and habitat loss, ensuring that forest resources are managed sustainably for future generations.
As the demand for sustainable practices increases, the expertise of forest technicians is becoming increasingly valuable. They play a critical role in the stewardship of forest ecosystems, helping to maintain biodiversity while balancing the needs of industry and the environment. Overall, a career in Forest Technology offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on conservation efforts and environmental sustainability.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2003 to 2025, graduates fell 49% and the international share went from 1.5% to 0.0%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 29 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forest and Conservation Technicians | 30,410 | $28.39 | $59,060 |
| Forest and Conservation Workers | 6,050 | $21.00 | $43,680 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2003–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.