Description
The Integrated Master's Degree in Forestry and Management of Natural Environment is awarded by the Department of Forestry and Management of Natural Environment of the School of Plant Sciences at the Agricultural University of Athens.
The programme provides comprehensive scientific and applied education in Forestry and Natural Environment Management, aiming at the understanding, protection, management, and sustainable utilisation of forest ecosystems and natural resources. The mission of the Department is to promote research and the production of new knowledge in the scientific field of Forestry and Natural Environment, while providing high-level education for the professional and scientific development of graduates. The programme includes courses related to forest ecology, forest ecosystem management, natural environment, ecosystem protection and restoration, natural resource management, forest products technology and utilisation, as well as laboratory and practical training. It also includes Practical Training and a Diploma Thesis.
Relation to Employment
Graduates may work in the study, planning, and implementation of forest management actions, ecosystem protection and restoration, biodiversity management, monitoring of natural ecosystems, environmental planning, and sustainable management policies. They may also pursue careers in public and private sector organisations, protected area management bodies, research institutions, environmental services, and organisations involved in the management and protection of the natural environment.
Access Requirements / Progression Opportunities
Admission to the program requires a Secondary School Leaving Certificate (High School Diploma) and successful participation in national-level examinations.
Knowledge
Graduates acquire comprehensive knowledge in Forestry and Natural Environment Management. They understand the functioning of forest and natural ecosystems, wildlife and plant biology and ecology, forest soils, hydrology and meteorology, as well as the principles of silviculture and forest ecosystem management. They also develop knowledge of forest economics, environmental policy and legislation, wildfire and natural hazard protection, wood technology, forest product utilisation, agroforestry, forest biomass, protected areas and natural resource management. This knowledge base supports a broad understanding of ecological processes, forest resources and the sustainable management of natural ecosystems.
Skills
Graduates develop skills in recording, measuring, analysing and evaluating forest and environmental data. They use tools and methods related to forest mensuration, topography, geographic information systems, remote sensing and geoinformatics for the study and monitoring of the natural environment. They are able to support the planning and implementation of forest ecosystem management, reforestation, forest nurseries, harvesting and utilisation of forest products, mountain water management and wildlife management. The programme also includes research methodology, a 30 ECTS thesis and compulsory practical training, strengthening the application of scientific knowledge in real professional settings.
Competences
Graduates are able to integrate scientific, technical, ecological and economic considerations in the sustainable management of forests, natural ecosystems and natural resources. They can contribute to the planning and implementation of actions for environmental protection, restoration and management, and address issues related to forest fires, climate change, water resources and degraded areas. They are also able to support evidence-based decision-making and participate in research and professional activities in Forestry and Natural Environment Management. Their studies foster professional adaptability, independent work and the ability to respond to contemporary scientific and environmental challenges.