The Department of Forest serves as a comprehensive, multidisciplinary hub committed to fostering sustainable forest management, conservation, and ecological restoration. Established to address critical environmental issues facing forests today, the department integrates rigorous theoretical coursework with extensive practical training. Students gain robust knowledge in key areas, including forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, silviculture practices, forest policies, climate change mitigation strategies, and sustainable management of natural resources. By offering hands-on experiences through fieldwork, internships, and cutting-edge laboratory exercises, our curriculum equips students with real-world skills necessary for addressing local, regional, and global forestry challenges, emphasizing sustainability, ecosystem health, and community-based approaches.
Dr. Khadijah Muhammad Ali
I am interested in plant production, agricultural extension, ethnobotany, and agricultural marketing. I graduated with a BSc in plant production from Salahaddin University-Erbil (SUE) in 2002. In addition to my diploma in plant nutrition from Salahaddin University-Erbil, I completed my master's degree in plant nutrition in 2015 from Kahramanmaraş Sütçü Imam University, Turkey, and my PhD degree from the same university in 2022. My PhD research is to enhance the improvement of herbal medicine harvesting, processing, and marketing practices in local communities to enhance their value and benefits. In this study, sustainable harvesting, small-scale wild crop cultivation, and local raw material processing were examined along the supply chain from shopkeepers to local markets. In addition, the study highlighted Soran's traditional culture and socioeconomic assets.
From 2001 to 2009, I was employed by the College of Agriculture as a teaching assistant. I am very proud to have been appointed to the faculty after I earned my PhD. In 2025, I became the head of the Forestry Department.
Our mission is to cultivate skilled, knowledgeable, and ethically responsible professionals in the fields of forestry, environmental conservation, and natural resource management. Through high-caliber teaching methodologies, pioneering research endeavors, and active engagement with local and global communities, the department strives to generate innovative, sustainable solutions to environmental challenges, enhancing forest ecosystem resilience and biodiversity.
VisionWe envision becoming a distinguished leader and a recognized regional hub in forest science and sustainable environmental management. Our goal is to achieve prominence through academic excellence, transformative research outputs, and collaborative partnerships that significantly contribute to global forest conservation, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.
Graduates from the Department of Forestry will:
- Forest Ecology Expertise: A deep understanding and application of ecological principles, silvicultural techniques, and the multifaceted roles forests play in ecosystem services.
- Technical Proficiency: Skills in conducting comprehensive forest inventories, classification, and monitoring using advanced technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and drone-based methodologies.
- Sustainable Management Planning: Ability to formulate and implement sustainable forest management plans that holistically integrate environmental integrity, social equity, and economic viability.
- Environmental Impact Assessment: Capability to critically evaluate and mitigate the impacts of deforestation, climate variability, land-use changes, and other anthropogenic pressures on forest ecosystems.
- Community and Policy Advocacy: Proficiency in promoting active community participation, advocacy for robust environmental policies, and strategies to ensure forest conservation and environmental justice.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Effective collaboration across diverse disciplines, enhancing the ability to collectively address complex forestry and environmental challenges globally.
- Professional Ethics and Commitment: A strong dedication to ethical practices, biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource use, and proactive ecosystem restoration initiatives.
The Department of Forest proactively fosters extensive collaborations and strategic partnerships at multiple levels to enhance educational experiences, promote advanced research, and facilitate effective community outreach and practical applications. Notable partnerships include: Government Agencies: Strong ties with governmental institutions such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources and the Environmental Protection Directorate, providing valuable platforms for policy formulation, experiential learning opportunities, and collaborative projects aimed at sustainable forestry practices.
Degree Program Overview
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Science in Forestry
Duration: 4 Years (8 Semesters)
Instruction Languages: Kurdish and English
Total Credits:Approximately 140–150 credit hours
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures, laboratories, fieldwork
- Student presentations, research assignments
- Summer training and capstone projects
Key Components:
- Laboratory and field training are integral in subjects like soil analysis, taxonomy, and GIS.
- Elective modules provide flexibility in specialization.
- A supervised research project in the final year fosters independent study and analytical skills.
- Summer Training (AgF2307) provides hands-on experience in forest-related institutions or research centers.
Sample Program Description
The Forestry Program at Salahaddin University-Erbil is dedicated to producing highly skilled graduates capable of managing and conserving forest resources in the face of modern environmental challenges. The program equips students with interdisciplinary tools spanning natural sciences, geoinformatics, economics, and environmental policy. Field-based learning is emphasized to bridge theory and practice. Students are trained to assess forest conditions, design management plans, use satellite data for monitoring, and evaluate ecological impacts of land-use decisions. Whether aspiring to work in government, NGOs, or the private sector, students graduate with a solid scientific foundation and practical competencies.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Forestry program will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of forest ecosystems and their management principles.
- Apply geospatial technologies (GIS, Remote Sensing) to forest mapping, inventory, and monitoring.
- Implement scientific methods in afforestation, silviculture, and ecological restoration.
- Analyze environmental data and conduct research using appropriate statistical and experimental design tools.
- Understand the role of forests in biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, and ecosystem services.
- Interpret forest policy frameworks and contribute to sustainable land-use governance.
- Communicate effectively in both academic and professional forestry contexts.
- Collaborate across disciplines to solve complex forestry and environmental problems.
Course Catalog
The Bachelor of Science in Forestry is a 4-year undergraduate degree consisting of eight semesters. The curriculum integrates theoretical instruction with practical labs and field applications. Below is a sample of courses offered across the program:
First Year
- General Kurdish Studies (Ag1101)
- English for University Students / 1 (Ag1102)
- Computer Skills (Ag1103)
- Analytical Chemistry (Ag1105)
- Engineering Drawing (Ag1106)
- General Zoology (Ag1107)
Second Year
- Forest Soils (AgF1204)
- Genetics (AgF1202)
- Microbiology (AgF1203)
- Meteorology (AgF1205)
- Plant Taxonomy (AgF2201)
- Forest Entomology (AgF2202)
- Forest Ecology (AgF2205)
Third Year
- Remote Sensing and GIS (AgF1301)
- Agroforestry (AgF1305)
- Tree Physiology (AgF1303)
- Forest Pathology (AgF2303)
- Forest Plantation (AgF2302)
- Wildlife Management (AgF2304)
- Forest Economics (AgF1307)
Fourth Year
- Forest Utilization (AgF1402)
- Urban Forestry (AgF2404)
- Wood Science and Technology (AgF1404)
- Forest Management (AgF1403)
- Forest Extension (AgF2402)
- Research Project I & II (AgF1406, AgF2406)
- Elective Modules
Admissions
The Department of Forestry at Salahaddin University-Erbil admits students through the centralized university admission process governed by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The program is designed for students interested in forestry, environmental management, ecological restoration, and sustainable use of natural resources.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Completion of secondary school (scientific branch).
- Satisfactory performance in the national baccalaureate exam (high school graduation exam).
- Placement into the program through the Zanko Line (central admission portal).
- Proficiency in science and interest in environmental and biological studies are encouraged.
Admission Timeline:
- Applications typically open in September.
- Placement results are announced in October.
- Orientation for first-year students begins in November.
Students admitted to the Forestry program become part of a learning community focused on ecological sustainability and field-based environmental science.
Alumni
Graduates of the Forestry Department are recognized for their strong academic foundation, field experience, and ability to work in multidisciplinary teams addressing environmental challenges. Alumni have contributed significantly to national and regional programs related to reforestation, land rehabilitation, forest policy, biodiversity protection, and climate resilience.
Sectors Employing Our Alumni:
- Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
- Ministry of Environment
- Local governorates (Forest and Range Departments)
- FAO, UNDP, and other international NGOs
- Private sector (agroforestry, timber, consulting firms)
- Academic and research institutions
- National Parks and Protected Areas management
Example Positions:
- Forest Conservation Officer
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- GIS and Remote Sensing Specialist
- Wildlife Conservationist
- Forestry Extension Agent
- Academic Research Assistant or Lecturer
Graduate Employability
Our Forestry graduates are equipped for diverse career paths in national and international institutions. The program places strong emphasis on fieldwork, critical thinking, and practical experience, making graduates highly competitive.
Career Opportunities Include:
- Forest Resource Manager
- Environmental Consultant
- Climate Change Mitigation Analyst
- Natural Resource Planner
- Silviculture Specialist
- Research Technician in Forestry or Ecology
- National Park Ranger
- NGO Program Officer for Environmental Conservation
Graduate Pathways:
- Postgraduate Study: Many students pursue M.Sc. or Ph.D. programs in forestry, ecology, or natural resources.
- Civil Service: Employment in ministries and regional departments.
- Private Sector: Consultancy firms working on environmental impact assessments, afforestation, and agroforestry.
Academic Advising
The Department of Forestry offers comprehensive academic advising services to support students throughout their educational journey. Academic advisors assist students in: Course selection and registration based on academic goals and degree requirements. Developing a personalized study plan that aligns with their interests in forest ecology, silviculture, biodiversity, or environmental policy. Providing guidance on internships, research opportunities, and fieldwork requirements. Advising on academic performance, helping students navigate challenges and connect with necessary support services. Preparing for graduate school applications or further academic specialization. Advisors maintain a close relationship with faculty to ensure that students receive current and relevant guidance in line with program updates and industry trends.
Internship Opportunities
The Department is committed to fostering a supportive and resource-rich learning environment. Available student resources include: Forestry laboratories and herbariums equipped for plant identification, soil analysis, and dendrology studies. GIS and Remote Sensing Labs for spatial analysis and forest monitoring applications. A departmental library stocked with specialized books, research journals, and case studies in forest science and environmental management. Access to field stations and forest reserves for practical training and research projects. Workshops, seminars, and guest lectures with professionals from forestry services, environmental NGOs, and governmental agencies. Student clubs and societies related to environmental sustainability, forestry innovation, and climate change advocacy. These resources aim to enrich the academic experience and encourage interdisciplinary exploration and collaboration.
Career Services
The Department of Forestry offers dedicated career services to help students transition from education to employment. These services include: Career counseling and one-on-one advising to explore professional paths in forestry, conservation, natural resource management, and environmental consulting. Resume writing workshops, mock interviews, and career readiness training. Internship and job placement support through partnerships with forestry departments, NGOs, international organizations, and private sector companies. Annual career fairs and employer networking events tailored to environmental and forestry sectors. Guidance on licensure, certifications, and postgraduate opportunities, including forestry technician programs and international fellowships. Career services empower students to confidently pursue careers that make a meaningful impact on forest sustainability and environmental stewardship.