The two-year, English-language master’s programme is organised in cooperation with the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada. It will allow students to complete two master’s degrees simultaneously at two universities: a Master of Forestry degree at the UBC and a Master of Science (Agriculture and Forestry) degree at the University of Helsinki. The programme also enables studying abroad, as the first year of study is completed in Canada.
Who is the dual degree programme for and what is its content?
The master’s programme is targeted at students interested in the bioeconomy, the sustainable utilisation of renewable resources and the business models of sustainable development as part of the green transition. During the studies, students will gain in-depth knowledge of, among other things, the sustainability of industries based on renewable resources, and a range of bio-based products and materials as well as their production and marketing. Another primary topic is solutions for sustainable energy production.
The first year in Canada focuses on, among other topics, the development of bio-based polymers and products, the principles of industrial ecology, and bioproduct innovation strategies. In the second year of study in Helsinki, the emphasis is on responsible business management, sales management and the development of new, sustainable business models for the global bioeconomy market.
What opportunities and capabilities does the programme offer?
The programme provides students with the skills needed for successfully implementing the transition to a sustainable bioeconomy in business operations related to renewable resources, particularly forests. It establishes excellent capabilities for business-related career paths that require an in-depth understanding of renewable resources and relevant environmental issues.
“The international dimension of the new programme offers excellent opportunities to students interested in global business in the forest and energy sectors. Proficiency in sustainability themes combined with understanding of business operations and value chains associated with renewable resources will undoubtedly constitute a favourable combination in the labour market, offering diverse career opportunities. In addition to the varied content of the degree programme, it is extremely useful for students to gain experience and networks from two universities on different continents. I’m happy that we are able to offer our students such a unique opportunity,” says Dean Ritva Toivonen of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry.
The master’s programme is 120 credits in scope and will be launched in 2025.