The Department of Forest and Wood Science at Stellenbosch University is South Africa’s leading centre for education, research, and innovation in sustainable forest and wood science. It is the only university in the country offering a fully integrated BSc, MSc, and PhD programme in both Forest Science and Wood Products Science, we provide students with comprehensive training across the entire forestry value chain, from forest establishment and management to wood product development and value-added processing. Furthermore our programmes combine rigorous academics with hands-on experience in the forests, winelands, and mountains surrounding Stellenbosch, preparing graduates for versatile careers in South Africa and internationally.

As a result of bringing Forest Science and Wood Products Science under one roof, the department uniquely addresses the full spectrum of forestry challenges. From ecological sustainability and forest economics to timber harvesting, bio-energy, and innovative wood-based solutions. Our cutting-edge research and practical training ensure that students gain the skills and knowledge to advance sustainable forestry, develop new wood technologies, and contribute to a resilient, value-added forestry industry. All these factors make Stellenbosch University the premier destination for forest and wood science education in Africa.