School of Forestry

Where curiosity meets conservation

NAU’s School of Forestry offers unmatched access to one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the country. Every trail, tree, and data point will deepen your understanding of how forests work and how to protect them. You’ll gain the expertise needed to balance the needs of forests for timber, clean water, recreation, and wildlife habitat while tackling challenges like wildfire and climate change.

Why study forestry at NAU

Programs in NAU’s School of Forestry combine fieldwork, research, and innovation to prepare you for a meaningful career in forestry and natural resource management.

Ready to lead, restore, and protect?

Whether you’re earning your Bachelor of Science in Forestry or pursuing a graduate degree, you’ll specialize in areas like wildfire ecology, dendrochronology, wildlife ecology, silviculture, human dimension of forestry, and ecological restoration.

What to expect

• Nearly one-quarter of your coursework will happen in the field
• Small classes with low student-to-faculty ratios
• 47,000-acre Centennial Forest just minutes from campus
• Learn in a living laboratory that inspires curiosity that fuels discovery

Learning outcomes

At the School of Forestry, you will:

• understand ecological concepts and principles including the structure and function of ecosystems, plant and animal communities, competition, diversity, population dynamics, succession, disturbance, and nutrient cycling.
• analyze the economic, environmental, and social consequences of forest resource management strategies and decisions.
• understand how federal, state, and local laws and regulations govern the practice of forestry.
• demonstrate an understanding of the global forces that shape professional forestry
• understand that there are diverse dimensions of the human experience and culture - and how it impacts the environment.

Dedicated support

Faculty rooted in research and impact

Work side-by-side with experts who are researchers, field scientists, and passionate educators–and are shaping the future of forestry. Meet the faculty who lead nationally-recognized forestry research, champion equity in environmental science, and support every student’s growth into a forestry professional ready to make a real impact.

Personalized support from day one

A dedicated Student Success Team is here to help you navigate every step of your NAU journey, from your first field day to your first job offer. From financial support (more than $150,000 awarded in scholarships) to career development (resume workshops, mock interviews, and alumni mentoring) and forestry-focused student organizations, you’ll feel supported from day one.

Community partnerships

Our students gain real experience in the field through internships, research projects, and collaborative opportunities, applying classroom learning to practice.

• The United States Forest Service (USFS)
• Arizona Department of Forest and Fire Management (DFFM)
• Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
• US Department of the Interior (DOI)
• The American Conservation Experience (ACE)
• The Grand Canyon Trust (GCT)
• The Nature Conservancy (TNC)

Student clubs and organizations

Connect with peers who share your passion for the outdoors and environmental leadership. Our student organizations and professional societies foster collaboration, service, and the chance to apply your learning in both local and international settings.