Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Forestry

 Duration: 2 Year
 Type: Master's degree
 Stream: Agriculture
 Average Fee: 20,000 to 2,00,000
 Entry Course: Bachelor of Science

M.Sc. in Forestry is a postgraduate program that focuses on the study and management of forests, wildlife, and natural resources. The course covers various aspects of forestry including forest ecology, conservation, forest management, silviculture, and wildlife management. It aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for sustainable forest management and conservation.This program equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in forestry, preparing them for various roles in research, academia, industry, and government sectors.

Specializations

Some common specializations in M.Sc. in Forestry include:

  • Forest Management
  • Forest Ecology and Biodiversity
  • Agroforestry
  • Silviculture
  • Wildlife Science
  • Forest Economics
  • Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding
  • Social Forestry and Community Forestry

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Forestry eligibility criteria

Eligibility Criteria

  • Educational Qualification: Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Agriculture, Horticulture, Botany, Environmental Science, or related fields from a recognized university.
  • Minimum Marks: Generally, a minimum aggregate score of 50-60% in the qualifying examination is required, but this may vary by institution.
  • Entrance Exams: Admission is often based on entrance exams. Some common entrance exams include ICAR AIEEA (PG), state-level entrance exams, and university-specific tests.

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Forestry admission process

Admission Process

  1. Eligibility Criteria:

    • Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Agriculture, Horticulture, Botany, Environmental Science, or related fields.
    • Minimum aggregate score of 50-60% (may vary by institution).
  2. Entrance Exams:

    • National Level: Indian Council of Agricultural Research All India Entrance Examination for Admission (ICAR AIEEA) for postgraduate studies.
    • State Level: State-specific entrance exams.
    • University Level: Some universities conduct their own entrance exams.
  3. Application Process:

    • Fill out the application form (online/offline) for the respective entrance exam or university.
    • Submit required documents, including academic certificates, photograph, and signature.
    • Pay the application fee.
  4. Selection Process:

    • Based on the entrance exam scores, candidates are shortlisted for counseling or further rounds of selection.
    • Final selection is based on merit, entrance exam score, and availability of seats.
  5. Counseling and Admission:

    • Attend counseling sessions as per the schedule.
    • Choose the preferred course and institution based on rank and availability.
    • Complete the admission formalities, including document verification and fee payment.

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Forestry career options

Career Opportunities

Graduates of M.Sc. in Forestry have diverse career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Some potential career paths include:

  • Forest Officer: Managing and protecting forest resources.
  • Wildlife Biologist: Studying and conserving wildlife and their habitats.
  • Forest Manager: Overseeing forest operations and management.
  • Conservation Scientist: Working on conservation projects and policies.
  • Research Scientist: Conducting research in forestry and related fields.
  • Environmental Consultant: Providing expertise on environmental impact and conservation.
  • Academician: Teaching and research roles in universities and colleges.
  • NGO Worker: Working with non-governmental organizations on conservation and community forestry projects.
  • Government Jobs: Positions in various departments related to forestry, environment, and wildlife.
  • Entrepreneur: Starting own consultancy or business related to forestry and natural resources management.

Higher Education

Graduates can pursue further studies such as:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Forestry or related fields for advanced research and academic careers.

Top Institutions Offering M.Sc. in Forestry

  1. Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehradun
  2. Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun
  3. Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA), Dehradun
  4. Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore
  5. Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana
  6. Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (YSP UHF), Solan
  7. University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore
  8. G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology (GBPUAT), Pantnagar
  9. Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCSHAU), Hisar
  10. Birsa Agricultural University (BAU), Ranchi