Plan Code 328-01, CIP Code 03.0101
Award: Associate of Applied Science
Program Head: Richard Scott Reigel, rreigel@mgcc.edu, (540) 863-2894
Length: Five Semesters (Two years of full-time study, including 1 summer session)
Purpose: The Forest Management Technology with Specialization in Arboriculture and Community Forestry degree is designed for persons seeking employment in various tree care and vegetation management occupations. The program is designed with the fundamental philosophy of delivering classroom instruction coupled with hands-on experiences. Students use industry-standard equipment and gain practical experience through course labs and required summer internship. Graduates of the program are sought after and are well qualified for positions in forestry, urban tree care, and rights-of-way management.
Admission Requirements: Applicants must meet the admission requirements for the College to be eligible for enrollment in the program. Students are expected to be proficient in basic English, writing mathematics, and reading. Appropriate developmental courses are available for those who need to improve proficiency in these areas.
In addition to the general admission requirements for the College, students considering this program should consider their physical ability to traverse hilly and uneven ground, operate in remote natural environments, and their ability to carry gear up to 35 pounds.
Due to course sequencing, at least two years at MGCC will be necessary to complete the program. Also, because of the importance of field practical course labs, the forestry courses for this degree do have student attendance obligations at MGCC Clifton Forge, VA campus.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS: The first year of the degree curriculum includes general education as well as basic forestry courses.
During the summer between the first and second years of study, students are required to complete a work-based field experience of approximately 225 clock hours. The work-based experiences may be paid or unpaid. The College will assist with placement; however, the student is responsible for locating and retaining the position as an unpaid worker or paid employee. For credit, the employment must be approved prior to beginning the assignment.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS: Students must achieve an overall 2.0 GPA (“C” average) in the required curriculum courses to be eligible for graduation. Upon successful completion of all program graduation requirements, the student will be awarded the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Forest Management Technology with Specialization in Arboriculture and Community Forestry.
RELATED PROGRAMS: Forest Management Technology AAS, Urban Forestry Career Studies Certificate.
ACCREDITATION: No professional accreditation recognition.
PROGRAM COSTS: In addition to the regular tuition and cost of textbooks, students in the program are required to buy specific types of personal protective gear and/or career specific tools/equipment.
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