Applying ecologically sound management principles enables forestry graduates to help sustain the protective, economic and leisure functions of forests. The knowledge of complex forest eco-systems and the skills in caring for and managing the forests that are needed for this purpose  are imparted to future forestry professionals during their course of study.

The broadly-based interdisciplinary training, with specialisations in forest ecology, the timber economy and forestry management, enables goal conflicts between various demands imposed by society to be recognised and mediated between.

In future, our society will impose still more stringent criteria on our forests. It is reasonable to expect the sustainable and careful use of wood as a raw material to become increasingly important. Wood as an innovative material for building, making things and as a renewable energy source is regarded as a sustainably useable resource for the future. Well-trained experts are needed to assure the responsible use of this resource.

The study of forestry is a valuable investment in the future.

After their three years of study, graduates from the bachelor’s course will be equipped to take on responsible management roles connected not only with the forest ecosystem but also in related professional fields. Opportunities include:

• Management positions in cantonal forest administration (district forester)
• Management of larger private forest enterprises
• Employment in forestry services companies (forestry companies, wood marketing organisations, etc.)
• Employment in the wood industry
• Employment in engineering partnerships and in forestry co-operatives
• Leading positions in the forestry, natural hazard and nature conservation sectors