The academic content and curriculum of the Bachelor of Science in Forest Engineering provides students with a broad range of knowledge and skills covering the scientific, technical and managerial aspects of forest ecosystems. The program usually lasts four years and includes compulsory core courses as well as a variety of elective courses.
In the first years, students are given courses that provide them with basic science and engineering knowledge. These include basic science courses such as general biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and statistics. These courses provide the necessary background to understand the basic biological and chemical processes of forest ecosystems.
In the later years of the program, students take more specific courses related to forestry and natural resource management. These courses cover topics such as forest ecology, dendrology (tree science), soil science, hydrology, forestry techniques, forest entomology (insect science) and phytopathology (plant disease science). In forest ecology courses, the structure, functioning and dynamics of forest ecosystems are studied. Dendrology courses teach the recognition and classification of tree and shrub species.
The forestry techniques courses in the curriculum include technical and practical knowledge related to the planning, management and conservation of forests. Students learn about forest inventory, mapping, forest roads and infrastructure. Fighting forest fires, fire prevention and extinguishing techniques are also within the scope of these courses. In addition, the use of modern technologies used in forestry, especially geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing techniques are taught.
An important component of the forest engineering program is sustainable forest management and environmental protection. These courses include the sustainable use of forest resources, conservation of biodiversity and management of ecosystem services. Students learn about current environmental issues such as the carbon storage capacity of forests, combating climate change and forest rehabilitation.
The practical part of the curriculum includes laboratory work and field trips. Laboratory work allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practice. For example, hands-on studies such as soil analysis, water quality measurements and plant physiology experiments are carried out. Field trips, on the other hand, provide students with the opportunity to examine and observe forest ecosystems in situ. During these field trips, students gain direct experience of forest biodiversity, ecological processes and forestry practices.
The program also includes courses in social sciences and economics. Courses such as forest economics, forest policies and legislation enable students to understand the economic and social dimensions of forest resources. These courses develop skills in economic analysis of forestry activities and understanding of the processes of forest policy development.
In the final year, students usually undertake a capstone project or thesis. This project provides students with the opportunity to conduct in-depth research on a topic of their choice and apply the knowledge gained. The capstone project helps students develop independent study, problem solving and analytical thinking skills.
The academic content and curriculum of the Bachelor of Science in Forest Engineering provides students with a comprehensive education in the conservation and sustainable management of forest ecosystems. This program provides students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for a successful career in forest engineering.