Forest Management

Forest management is the science and practice of planning, tending and protecting woodland and forest ecosystems for ecological, economic and social benefit. Forests cover around a third of the Earth's land surface, regulate climate, support extraordinary biodiversity, provide timber, food and other products, and are home to indigenous communities and cultural traditions across the world. As deforestation, climate change and biodiversity loss continue to reshape forest systems globally, the need for skilled, evidence-based forest management has never been greater.

At the University of Cumbria, this three-year full-time programme is based at the National School of Forestry on the Ambleside campus, situated in the heart of the Lake District National Park. The landscape itself becomes part of your learning environment, with extensive field experience in woodlands and forests that allows you to observe, measure and manage real ecosystems under expert guidance. You will study the ecology, silviculture and management of woodland systems, alongside the policy, economic and social dimensions of forestry practice.

Teaching draws on the expertise of leading industry practitioners and researchers, and the programme benefits from Cumbria's strong national and international partnerships in forestry and land management.

Graduates from forest management programmes work as foresters, woodland officers, conservation managers, ecological surveyors, land agents and environmental consultants. Many find roles with the Forestry Commission, National Trust, wildlife trusts, private estates, local authorities and international conservation organisations. The combination of ecological knowledge, practical fieldwork skills and an understanding of policy and management frameworks makes forest management graduates well prepared for careers at the front line of environmental work.

Postgraduate study in forestry, conservation, ecology or environmental management is a route for those who want to develop specialist expertise or move into research.