2-Year Forest Resources Technology Diploma

Forest Resources Technology

• 2-Year Technology Diploma Program
• Program Fees: Domestic Students, International Students
• Apply for Admission: Forms and Information

The Program

Forest Technology: This program provides the technical training required for starting a career in most fields of forest technology. The program emphasizes the recognition and appreciation of all the major values of the forest including timber, recreation, wildlife, range, fish, water, and visual landscapes. The program is accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board. Graduates of this program meet the required standard for membership in the Association of BC Forest Professionals (ABCFP) as Registered Forest Technologists (RFT).

Additional Credentials: Twelve courses in the program are currently recognized by the ABCFP and may be credited toward gaining the status of Registered Professional Forester (RPF) in accordance with the Foresters Act of BC Credit may be granted towards VIU’s Bachelor of Natural Resource Protection, Bachelor of Science, Major in Biology, and Bachelor of Science in Fisheries & Aquaculture programs, as well as forestry degree programs at UBC, UNBC, and University of Alberta.

Summer Jobs: In the summer, between the first and second year of the program, all students are expected to obtain a forestry-related job to broaden their knowledge of practical forestry. VIU assists students in obtaining forestry employment, both during the summer months and following graduation.

Transfer Students: Students may transfer into the second year of VIU’s Forestry program either from community colleges in BC, or from a recognized forest technology school in Canada or the United States. The qualifications of each student requesting such transfer are adjudicated individually. VIU Students also have the opportunity of transferring to other institutions.

Bridge to UBC: Graduates of the Technology Diploma wishing to obtain an undergraduate degree in Forest Resource Management or Forest Operations from the University of British Columbia (UBC) Faculty of Forestry can complete the one-year bridging program and transfer directly into third year at UBC.

International Experiences: Second year students may participate in international field schools and receive VIU credit while studying at designated forestry schools abroad.

First Aid Certification: Students are required to complete two one-day First Aid courses (O.F.A. Level 1 & Transportation Endorsement) by the end of September of the first year.

Financial Aid: More than $20,000 of scholarships, awards and bursaries are specifically dedicated to students of the forestry program each year. These monies are in addition to the general financial aid available to forestry students. For more information on scholarships, bursaries and awards, please check with the Financial Aid office or visit the Financial Aid and Awards page.

Admission Requirements

• General admission requirements apply
• English 12 with minimum “C” grade, or equivalent
• Principles of Mathematics 11 or Applications of Math 11 with minimum “C+” grade, or equivalent
• One science 11 with minimum “C+” grade (Forestry 11 satisfies this requirement)

Notes on Admission

• Applicants lacking the admission requirements are encouraged to meet with an advisor about upgrading options. With written permission, some students may be allowed to register in some first year Forestry courses while upgrading. Please check with an Advisor for details
• Applicants will be assessed on an individual basis
• Enrolment in this program is limited. Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in September and applications are accepted between November 15 and March 31. For further information regarding late applications and program contacts check the Program Availability List.

Program Outline

Note: Some courses may transfer to VIU’s Bachelor of Science, Major in Biology degree program, or the Bachelor of Science in Fisheries & Aquaculture degree program. Please check with the Departmental Chair