Wood Science - PhD

Graduate programs in the Department of Wood Science and Engineering are dynamic, diverse and collaborative. Students are fully engaged in the rapidly-evolving, international field of wood products from the very beginning. Dual graduate degrees are common and encouraged; common partner disciplines include civil engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science and forest science. Graduates go on to great careers in industry, higher education, government and nonprofits.

The Department offers MS and PhD degrees in Wood Science with a broad range of specialties. Example specialties are chemistry, physics, composites, bio-deterioration and business. Dual MS and PhD degrees are also possible. Common dual degrees are with Material Science and Civil Engineering.

Renewable materials like wood are essential to human existence. The demand for the energy and thousands of consumer and industrial products made from wood and other renewable materials is growing, especially as society becomes more aware of sustainability and green issues.
To meet the global challenges of the 21st Century we must be more innovative in making, marketing and using products from renewable resources while minimizing environmental impacts. We need to learn more about complex renewable materials like wood and dream of new ways that they can help us in the future. Our domestic industry must develop and implement new technology and marketing strategies to remain competitive.

The graduate programs in wood science are designed for the future scientists, technologists and businesspersons who will meet the challenge of new knowledge and innovation.

The doctorate of philosophy degree is designed for those interested in pursuing a career in academia or in research and development in the area of wood science. Unique and highly-regarded, the program emphasizes strong research specialization. Students work collaboratively with Oregon State’s world-class faculty to conduct research and develop their dissertations. Graduates go on to work in industry as engineers and as research and development scientists or continue in the field of higher education.