Sustainable Forest Management Certificate
Advance Your Forestry Career with the Sustainable Forest Management Certificate!
Flexible training. Practical skills. Recognized impact.
Are you working in BC’s forestry sector and looking to upskill or take the next step toward becoming a Registered Professional Forester (RPF)? The Sustainable Forest Management Certificate from UNBC Continuing Studies is built with your career in mind.
This industry-aligned program developed in partnership with the Forest Professionals BC (FPBC) fills the gaps commonly seen in RPF applications. Whether you’re working in forest operations, timber management, or environmental consulting, this training helps you meet industry expectations, build your credentials, and position yourself for long-term success.
Who Should Enroll?
Working Forestry Professionals
- Technical foresters, forest technologists, and silviculture practitioners.
- Mid-career professionals aiming to upgrade their skills, advance into leadership roles, or meet RPF designation requirements.
- Employees in forestry consulting firms, forest licensees, and provincial ministries (e.g., BC Ministry of Forests).
Operational Field Staff
- Tree planting supervisors, field technicians, and forestry crew leads.
- Individuals with practical field experience but limited formal post-secondary training seeking to formalize or advance their credentials.
Aspiring Registered Professional Foresters (RPFs)
- Candidates who need to meet the academic knowledge requirements for RPF designation under the Forest Professionals BC (FPBC) standards.
This certificate gives you the edge to move forward with confidence.
Program Format: Three Stackable Micro-Credentials
Complete three short-format micro-credentials, offered in flexible online and hybrid formats, and earn your Sustainable Forest Management Certificate from UNBC.
Dates and curriculum for micro-credentials 2 + 3 is coming soon!
| Micro-Credential # | Course Title | Course Content | Delivery Format | Prerequisite |
| 1 | Forest Health & Harvest |
Build foundational knowledge in forest ecology, silvicultural systems, regeneration methods, and harvesting practices. Learn how to assess and manage forest disturbances like fire, insects, and disease. Ideal for professionals in forest operations or natural resource roles looking to deepen their technical skills. |
Online |
High school diploma with coursework in biology or environmental science, OR equivalent education; AND Minimum of 2 years of work experience in forestry, silviculture, ecosystem restoration, natural resource management, OR any second-year ecology or botany course. |
| 2 | Practitioner Forest Health & Harvest |
Put your knowledge to work. This hands-on capstone experience focuses on silviculture techniques and managing real-world forest health threats in the field. Designed for professionals ready to apply their skills in operational settings and field. |
In-person | MC 1 - Forest Health & Harvest |
| 3 | Forest Management & Ecosystems |
Gain practical training in natural resource legislation, forest management strategies, and ecosystem modeling. Explore forest dynamics at both stand and landscape levels, with a focus on sustainability and climate change. Perfect for those seeking broader ecosystem management or planning experience. |
Hybrid |
MC 1 - Forest Health & Harvest OR UNBC pre-approval |
Why Choose this Program?
- BC-based and industry-relevant
- Built for working professionals – flexible formats and condensed schedules
- Direct pathway to RPF – aligned with FPBC competency areas
- Career-focused – learn skills that apply directly to your job
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Register today and take the first step towards career advancement in sustainable forest management.
Your journey starts October 10, 2025!
Seats are limited - register now to secure your spot for Fall 2025.
For questions or group registration options, contact us at cstudies@unbc.ca.