Sonoma State University

Masters in Forestry

Root Your Career in Sustainability 

Use your science degree to launch a career in forestry!  

Over 9,400 new foresters are needed in California by 2028! If you already have a Bachelor of Science degree in any discipline, you can transition into this field by taking our introductory classes and enrolling in a Master's Degree in Natural Resources (Forestry) at Cal Poly Humboldt.

The two-year program will set you up for a professional career working for state, federal, local agencies, non-profits, and more. If you are interested but are unsure about your next steps, come to one of our information sessions or sign up for our Introduction to Forestry classes to learn more about what the profession is all about.

Upcoming Information Sessions

Get your questions answered. We will talk about the introductory classes, available financial support, and the Humboldt Master’s program. No registration necessary.

Introduction to Forestry Classes

Find out if you like forestry. These free classes help you determine if this profession is right for you, and simultaneously give you the background you need to start a master’s degree in forestry, no matter your B.S. degree.

  • Forestry Careers - This weekly course encourages B.S. majors from across California to consider a career in forestry. We include an overview of forest stewardship and harvesting, help you build field skills through virtual exercises, and introduce you to professionals working in the field. Dates: Jan-Apr 2025 and annually thereafter. Location: On-line. Cost: Free in 2025! Prerequisites: Pursuing or having a BS. Pre-registration: Sign up for more information.

  • Forestry Skills and Professional Development - This 10-day field course gives you hands-on skills and perspectives needed to transition into a Master’s of Forestry program. The field class is hosted at Sonoma State University’s mobile training camp stationed at the 3,600-acre Galbreath Wildlands Preserve. You will learn fundamental forestry concepts and hands-on skills (e.g., tree identification and measurement, carbon inventory plot installation, and fuel transects), and engage with professionals working in forestry on preserve lands and on surrounding timberlands managed by agencies, industry and non-profits. Dates: May 2025 and annually thereafter Location: Galbreath Wildlands Preserve; all participants are required to camp. Cost: Free in 2025! Includes camping supplies, transportation and food. Students must be able to provide their own transportation to the preserve. Costs will apply in subsequent years. Prerequisites: Forestry Careers course. If you were not able to take the Forestry Careers course, reach out to pberrill@humboldt.edu for consideration. Class Size: 20 students max via application process. Pre-registration: Sign up for more information.

Transition into the Master’s Program at Cal Poly Humboldt

Whether or not you take the introductory courses, you are encouraged to apply to the Master’s in Forestry program at Cal Poly Humboldt. 

*** If you are accepted into the Humboldt Master’s program in Spring or Fall of 2025, up to $18,480 in salary is available for you to work on your thesis.  This funding is made available through a one-time CalFire Workforce Development Grant.  ***

The Humboldt Master’s program provides: 

  • Hands-On Learning: Get real-world experience through immersive fieldwork in diverse ecosystems to help solve challenges in California’s forests.

  • Expertise in Sustainable Practices: Acquire advanced skills managing forest ecosystems, balancing ecological health with economic needs, and implementing cutting-edge conservation strategies to ensure long-term sustainability.

  • Expert Mentorship: Collaborate with industry professionals who will guide you.

  • Financial Support: Contact the Cal Poly Humboldt Financial Aid Office at (707) 826-4321 with questions. Find out your likely Cost of Attendance here. Options include:

  • For more information about the Cal Poly Humboldt Concentration in Forestry, click here.

Humboldt Admission Requirements

  • Educational Background: Bachelor’s Degree in Science in any discipline with a minimum GPA of 3.0. GREs are not required. (If your GPA is below 3.0 but you have substantial work experience or strong GRE scores, you may appeal for consideration.)

  • Supporting Documents:

    • 2-3 Letters of Recommendation

    • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended

    • Detailed Statement of Purpose

      • Potential research areas that are of interest to you

      • Identify Professor Pascal Berrill as the faculty who should review your file

      • Your reasons for pursuing a M.S. degree

    • Current Resume

  • Application Period: August 1 - September 30. For applications after September 30, contact pberrill@humboldt.edu before applying. 

  • For more information on Admission Requirements at Cal Poly Humboldt

How to Apply to Humboldt for a Master's in Forestry

  1. Contact Faculty: Reach out to Dr. Pascal Berrill at pberrill@humboldt.edu with subject “Masters Degree in Forestry” before applying to discuss potential research interests, faculty advisor availability, and limited-time funding opportunities. 

  2. Complete the Application: Fill out the California State University Graduate Application online at Cal State Apply. A $70.00 application fee is required, with limited fee waivers available. Optional reporting of your GMAT and GRE results. If you do not plan to take the exams, click “I Am Not Adding Any Standardized Tests”. Cal State Apply Applicant Help Center

  3. Submit Your Documents: You will need a minimum of 2, max of 3 references. Compile your supporting documents (listed above) and send directly to: Cal Poly Humboldt, Office of Graduate Admissions, 1 Harps Street, Arcata CA 95521

Once you’ve been accepted to the program, be sure to check out the Degree Requirements for the Masters in Natural Resources (Forestry).

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