USU is the only university in the state with a college devoted to the study of natural resources, and it is the only university in the state and one of only a few in the region with degree programs in forestry.

Forestry is a land management degree focused on the integration of biological, social, and physical sciences and their application to the management of forest ecosystems. While studying forest ecosystem management, students can focus on a variety of related areas, including forest ecology, economics, social sciences, natural resource policy, wildlife species and their impact on forest ecosystems, hydrological dimensions, recreational dimensions, and more.

Each student works with their graduate committee to create an individualized plan of study that supports their area of research interests. Students are able to take courses in other areas and departments, gaining an interdisciplinary education in forestry and related aspects.