Forest Ecology

Education facts

Code: 5BI238

The course addresses the impact of abiotic and biotic factors for forest structure, growth and dynamics, focusing on boreal forests in Scandinavia, but temperate and tropical forest ecosystems are also addressed. The course contains three parts: Module 1: Theory 8 credits: An in-depth theory block focusing on the functional relationships between forest ecosystems and bio-geochemical processes, divided into three sections. 1. Regulatory and limiting factors for forest production. 2. Access to, flow and accumulation of energy and nutrients. 3. The importance of different organism groups for forest ecology and dynamics. Module 2: Excursions 2.5 credits: Excursions to field experiments, natural and managed forests. Examples of the impact of forestry on biodiversity are demonstrated, as well as training in forest inventory techniques and species determination. Module 3: Project work 4.5 credits: A project work where students plan and perform a scientific study to test ecological hypotheses.

Entry requirements

120 ECTS credits including 60 ECTS in Biology or equivalent knowledge. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English 6/level 2 .When the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• Forest Ecology

  Umeå University

  Start date: 31 August 2026

  End date: 1 November 2026

  Pace of study: 100 %