Bachelor's in Wood Science and Technology

West Virginia University (WVU) has evolved into a prominent research university, offering a diverse array of academic programs and fostering a vibrant campus life. WVU provides a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various fields, including the arts, humanities, social sciences, business, and STEM disciplines. The university's strong ties to its Appalachian heritage and dedication to community engagement are notable features, as seen through its initiatives to address regional challenges and contribute to the economic development of the state. With a combination of rigorous academic offerings, a vibrant campus atmosphere, and a strong sense of community, West Virginia University continues to provide students with a comprehensive educational experience and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Accredited by the Society of Wood Science and Technology (SWST), the Wood Science and Technology curriculum prepares students in key skill sets using hands-on cutting-edge technology, innovation in new product development, marketing, and manufacturing to directly work in an ever-growing the U.S. forest products industry (biorefining, renewable materials, and sustainable construction). According to the American Forest and Paper Association (AF&PA), the U.S. forest products industry is one of the top ten manufacturing sector employers, which employs about one million workers and accounts for approximately six percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP. Some examples of products include: energy efficient green building construction materials, lignocellulosic materials for packaging, pharmaceutical and catalysis applications, highly advanced carbon materials for adsorption and electrochemical applications, energy and fuels applications from lignocellulosic materials, green fibers for textile and paper applications, and sporting goods. One of the most sensible alternatives to reduce global warming is the use of wood as a raw material in manufacturing of various products, which enables an environmentally friendly method to store atmospheric carbon in various wood products for prolonged periods. The Wood Science and Technology curriculum is highly focused on these aspects of the forest products industry.