Forestry

A Forestry degree equips you with the practical and scientific knowledge to manage, conserve and develop forests across Ireland and beyond. You study tree biology, forest ecology, timber harvesting, silviculture and woodland conservation, alongside modules in GIS mapping and environmental planning. Much of your learning takes place outdoors on field trips and practical placements, giving you hands-on experience in both commercial plantations and native woodland sites. You may also undertake work placement with organisations such as Coillte, the Forest Service or private forestry companies. A typical week balances lectures in forest science and policy with fieldwork, data collection and GIS lab sessions, preparing you for a career at the intersection of land management and environmental sustainability.

Entry is through the CAO, typically requiring a minimum of six subjects in the Leaving Certificate, including a pass in English and Mathematics at Ordinary level or above. Subjects such as Agricultural Science, Biology, Geography and Chemistry are particularly useful preparation, though not always mandatory. CAO points required are generally moderate, making this a realistic option for students with a broad range of Leaving Cert results. QQI/FET Level 5 or Level 6 awards in Agriculture, Horticulture or Environmental Science can provide an alternative progression route into Year 1 or Year 2 of the programme. Mature applicants aged 23 or over may apply through the mature student pathway, and HEAR and DARE access schemes are available for eligible applicants.

Graduate prospects in forestry are reasonably positive, underpinned by Ireland's ambitious national afforestation and climate targets, which require qualified professionals to plan and manage new and existing forests. Demand for forestry specialists is expected to grow as the government seeks to expand forest cover significantly over the coming decades. Starting salaries for graduate foresters typically range from around €28,000 to €35,000 per year, with experienced forest managers or inspectors earning €45,000 to €60,000 or more. The relatively small number of graduates each year means that qualified foresters are generally in demand, particularly those with GIS and environmental assessment skills.