Forestry and Natural Environment (BScFNE)
Field training in real natural environments
Hands-on experience in Mediterranean forests
Studying forests in the age of climate change
The Bachelor in Forestry and Natural Environment (BScFNE) is a practice-oriented program that combines scientific knowledge with extensive fieldwork. You study forests, biodiversity, and natural ecosystems, while learning how forests are managed and protected. You also explore how climate change affects natural environments and how forests can adapt to these changes. Throughout your studies, you work in real forest areas and learn to use the modern tools and technologies used in environmental and forest science. This combination of science, field experience, and practical learning prepares you to work on forestry and environmental challenges locally and internationally.
Aristotle
The forests and landscapes of the Eastern Mediterranean create a unique environment for studying forestry and environmental science. Here, you learn in ecosystems directly affected by climate change, biodiversity loss, and human activity. This helps you understand how forests function in real conditions and how they are managed and protected. Field training takes place in two university forest research areas:
the University Forest of Pertouli in the Pindus mountain range and the University Forest of Taxiarchis in Mount Cholomontas, Halkidiki. These forests serve as important sites for field practice, research, and environmental monitoring. The degree is aligned with the European Higher Education Area, preparing graduates for professional careers or postgraduate studies in forestry, environmental management, and sustainability.
You explore forests and natural environments through science, field experience, and hands-on training.
The program gives you a strong foundation in forest and environmental science.
You learn how forests and natural ecosystems function, how they are managed, and how they respond to environmental change. Below, you can explore the main areas of study that shape the program throughout your studies.
From foundational science to applied forest management
You graduate with a degree from a highly regarded European university in forestry and environmental science. The program focuses on Mediterranean forests and ecosystems, helping you understand how forests respond to climate change and environmental pressures. Through international collaborations and academic networks — including Erasmus+ and partnerships with global research organizations — the program prepares you for further studies, research, and professional opportunities around the world.
Imagine yourself studying forests and natural ecosystems. Working outdoors to understand how forests grow, change, and respond to climate and environmental pressures. This degree prepares you for careers in forestry, environmental management, biodiversity protection, and natural resource planning. You may work in forest services, environmental organisations, research institutions, or sustainability projects. You can also continue with postgraduate studies in Greece or abroad. You graduate ready to work in environments where science, nature, and environmental responsibility meet.
A leading university in Europe
For thousands of students each year, Thessaloniki becomes more than a place to study — it becomes part of everyday life. Located by the Aegean Sea and home to more than one million people in its wider metropolitan area, the city combines a strong academic presence with the relaxed rhythm of Mediterranean living. Traditions of hospitality and openness help create a welcoming environment for students from Greece and around the world. From the waterfront and the city center to nearby nature — including Mount Olympus and the beaches of Chalkidiki — Thessaloniki offers a setting where university life and everyday life naturally come together.
AU Forestry Economics Lab Presents Sustainability Results Aligned with United Nations SDGs and University Forests
Life-Saving Knowledge Shared at Seminar on Natural Disasters and Emergency Response AU
AU Participates in National Initiative to Digitise Natural History Collections
UNESCO Vikos–Aoos Geopark Summer School Explores the Link Between Geology, Environment and Cultural Heritage AU
World Forests Day at AU: Interview with the Head of the Department of Forestry and Natural Environment on National Television
Admission
requirements
• High-school diploma or equivalent secondary education qualification from a school based abroad granting access to higher education in the country of graduation
• Completion of the last two (2) years of secondary education in a foreign country on a full-time basis
• Alternatively, graduation from a recognised foreign school legally operating in Greece under the conditions defined by the Programme regulations
• English language proficiency of at least B2 level according to the CEFR
• Submission of a complete application file with the required supporting documents
• Participation in an online interview conducted by the Program Steering Committee
• Evaluation of the candidate’s CV, supporting documents and application file by the Program Steering Committee
Tuition fees and detailed admission requirements are available at the Program’s website.
Necessary
documents
• Application form available on the Program website
• Copy of ID card or passport
• High-school diploma (with official English translation)
• High-school transcript of the final year of studies (with official English translation)
• Certificate of English language proficiency (minimum B2 level)
• Motivation letter (up to 500 words) presenting the candidate’s interest in forestry and the natural environment and future goals
• Curriculum Vitae (in English) including studies, distinctions or relevant activities
Consult on the Program’s website for the documents you need to submit.
