Hi all,

I am wondering if it is possible to enter a graduate program in forestry without a forestry or a science background.

I find forestry really interesting and would like to work towards a career in the field.

I am currently a member of the California Conservation Corps where I am a work as part of a natural resource crew (trail maintenance and construction, burn piles, etc) under the supervision and sponsorship of a state forestry aides. I am even enrolled in a program to get a certification in utility vegetation management and pre-inspection.

Would my experiences make me a good candidate for a forestry school or would my lack of a hard science back ground hurt (I majored in political science and religious studies)?

I heard that there are programs designed to allow people to enter the field fresh? If so, how do I find these programs and would they be affordable?

My current instructors in the certification course all Hagen forestry degrees and they recommend that I either get a second bachelors or just get a job in utility vegetation inspection.

I’ve also heard that it’s not impossible to get a forestry tech job with some experience?

I live in Southern California, but I am always willing to move.

Thank you!