Postgraduate Studies​​

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Department of Forestry and Wood Science​

​Research is conducted in the fields set out below.​

forest science​

SILVICULTURE

The genetic improvement of trees, propagation of trees, tree establishment, management of indigenous forests and woodlands as well site/species matching. 

Forestry Development

The use of indigenous trees by communities, the participatory management of indigenous forests and woodlands and the use of agroforestry technologies for community development are investigated. 

Forest Management​

Research focuses on forest inventory, growth and yield modelling of natural and commercial plantation forests, GIS-modelling, informatics, forestry economics and finance, business management and policy. 

Forest Engineering 

This field deals with logistics and supply-chain management, operations research, harvesting systems optimisation, optimal building and management practices for access roads and forest road networks, and timber transport, costing and work-study protocols.

WOOD SCIENCE

Wood Chemistry and Physics

Deepening study of the biological, physical and chemical properties of importance during the processing and use of wood-based products. Include amongst others, micro and macro structures, biodegradation, wood/water relationship, thermal behaviour, mechanical strength, and electrical and acoustic properties. 

Bioenergy

This field focuses on the biomass and its suitability to be used as fuel for energy generation via different conversion techniques.

Wood Processing

The design, manufacture and properties of wood-based constructions, joints and fasteners, durability and performance testing. Mechanical properties of wood and wood products. Study of the processes, economics and management of primary and secondary wood processing industries. 

POSTGRADUATE QUALIFICATIONS​