Many foresters become top executives in public agencies, conservation organizations, and corporations. Others become consultants offering forestry services to private landowners, corporations, and public agencies. Career advancement and ultimate salary levels are usually lower for technicians than foresters. To be recognized as a professional forester, you must have a minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in forestry or a related forest resources curriculum. Some states require foresters to be registered or licensed in order to provide forestry services to individuals.
Most technicians hold a two-year degree in forest technology.
In limited cases, the employer will train you as a technician and will not require a two-year degree. Your choices for advancement, however, usually will be less than if you had the degree. The Society of American Foresters does not rank forestry schools, but does accredit nearly 50 in the United States. For a program to be accredited, it must meet minimum standards for educational objectives, curriculum, faculty, students, organization, physical resources, and supporting departments. It must also undergo detailed review by the Society at least every five years.