Welcome to a Career in Forestry
Our forestry program is uniquely situated as a 2-year school located on a 4-year land-grant college campus. Forest Technology began here at UNH in 1961 and we are very proud of the vital role our graduates play in managing and sustaining New England’s important forest resources. The Thompson School Forest Technology program has been recognized nationally by the Society of American Foresters since our beginning.
In preparing for admission to any forestry or natural resource program, I recommend a minimum of two years of college preparatory math (any combination of algebra, geometry, trigonometry), two years of college preparatory science (one of those being biology with a lab) and perhaps a business course. I also stress the importance of having good writing, reading and verbal communication skills.
The course of studies here is both physically and mentally challenging. Most of our classes consist of an inside lecture with a corresponding outside lab. Our four-semester program requires 64 credits in order to complete the AAS degree. However, if students choose to combine part-time study and work, the program will take longer. Graduation requirements at the Thompson School include required summer work experience in forestry/natural resources/tree care. Our faculty help students find summer and permanent job placement.
The Forest Technology class sizes are small, fostering a familiar relationship between students and faculty. Thompson School students are just like any other UNH student and share the same life and college experiences. The faculty have many contacts in New Hampshire’s professional forestry community and the students interact with many of these professionals during their two years of study here.
Facilities include Barton, Cole and Putnam Halls, the UNH Sawmill, a greenhouse complex and over 3,900 acres of University woodlands. Forestry equipment, computers and other equipment are considered “state-of-the-art”. The forestlands are certified as a Tree Farm and students actively participate in their management.
Matt Chagnon
Professor & Chair of
Forest Technology
