This program provides the technical training required for starting a career in most fields of forest technology. The program emphasizes the recognition and appreciation of all the major values of the forest including timber, recreation, wildlife, range, fish, water, and visual landscapes. The program is accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board. Graduates of this program meet the required standard for membership in the Association of B.C. Forest Professionals (ABCFP) as Registered Forest Technologists (RFT).

In the summer, between the first and second year of the program, all students are expected to obtain a forestry-related job to broaden their knowledge of practical forestry. VIU assists students in obtaining forestry employment, both during the summer months and following graduation.

Students wishing to obtain an undergraduate degree in Forest Resource Management or Forest Operations from the University of British Columbia (UBC) School of Forestry may, after completing the VIU program (“bridging” year), transfer directly into third year at UBC.

A broad choice of field positions in forestry, environmental management, and natural resource management are available, and graduates have gained employment through private companies, Ministry of Forests, independent consultants or private contractors as timber cruisers, engineers, silviculture contract administrators and planners, as well as other technical jobs such as G.I.S., aerial photography, and computer applications.