Master of Forestry with Specialization in Ecology and Ecosystem Restoration
This Master of Forestry (MF) specialization focuses on restoring ecosystems impacted by anthropogenic activities, including agriculture, forestry, urban development, industrial contamination and climate change.
The program is designed to be completed in 10-16 months of full-time study, but can also be taken on a part-time basis over a period of up to 6 years. Depending on the undergraduate background, this program can contribute to the academic requirements to become a Registered Professional Biologist or a Registered Professional Forester.
Applicants hold an undergraduate degree in biological, environmental or forest sciences, or in an allied discipline. For a complete listing of degree requirements, see our Graduate Program Handbook.
APPLY NOW
Why Study Ecology and Ecosystem Restoration?
Ecosystem degradation is one of the greatest environmental challenges of the 21st century, with human population growth, economic development, and climate change impacting our natural ecosystems. Professionals trained in multi-disciplinary approaches to ecosystem restoration are needed to establish and maintain functional and resilient ecosystems in a changing environment.
What will you learn?
This degree specialization offers a comprehensive course curriculum on foundations and practical techniques for restoring ecosystems impacted by anthropogenic activities. Graduates are trained in modern approaches to contaminant remediation, reclamation and ecological restoration.
You select eight courses and a 6-credit capping research project under this degree program (or alternatively six courses and a 12-credit project). One of our faculty members working in Forest Ecology and Management or Reclamation and Restoration of Land and Water will serve as advisor for your research project and for a course selection that matches your career objectives. A comprehensive list of course offerings for this degree specialization includes:
- Forest Ecosystems
- Disturbance Ecology Fundamentals
- Restoration Ecology
- Urban Forest Ecology
- Soil Remediation
- Soil and Water Conservation
- Advanced Land Reclamation
- Climates and Ecosystems
- Tree Physiology
- Advanced Tree Physiology
- Physical Hydrology
- Forest Watershed Management
- Forest Soils
- Advanced Soil Formation, Classification and Landscape Processes
- Perspectives on Traditional Knowledge
- Public Participation and Conflict Resolution
Participants have the option of a 10-12 month curriculum, where course work is completed in two academic terms, followed by a research project in the spring and/or summer terms. Alternative scheduling options that qualify for full-time student status include 16-month or 20-month curricula with a lighter work load and the option of no activities during the summer break.
Program costs and funding opportunities
The Master of Forestry with Specialization in Ecology and Ecosystem Restoration is a self-funded program with competitive tuition and fees. Participants pay instructional fees for Course-Based Programs with Standard Fees for 30 credits.
Some academic advisors may offer partial graduate stipends for the duration of the capping research project. Alternatively, students can apply for paid internship and summer job opportunities during the summer break (May to August). Participants can also coordinate their capping research project with the funded Sustainability Scholars program (subject to competitive applications and partner approval).
How to apply?
To be considered for this program, follow the link below for a step-by-step guidance through the admission process. Note that you do not need to secure a supervisor or provide a research proposal to be considered for this degree program. Instead, upload a statement of interest.
In the on-line application system of the University of Alberta, find this program under the “Department of Renewable Resources”, “Master of Forestry”, “Specialization in Ecology and Ecosystem Restoration”.
APPLY NOW