Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sustainable Timber Technology

Timber technologists are highly skilled technical professionals occupying a range of positions in businesses in the large and growing Forest Product Sector. Enterprise Ireland predict the sector will grow from 12,000 to 20,000 people in the next ten years. The increased focus on sustainability and sustainable timber products, the large increase in the Irish forest harvest, and increased demand for high quality timber products in Ireland and the UK, are driving this growth. This immersive, full-time course will develop a wide range of skills and knowledge preparing you for the challenges of this exciting, growing sector. 

Timber Technologists play central roles in the many stages of conversion of wooden logs, thinnings and woodfibre into high quality timber products that meet demanding technical and environmental standards. These products range from boards and planks (to be used in construction or furniture) to wood pellets and fencing, and from fitted kitchens and large volume furniture manufacture to beautifully crafted timber artefacts.

TU838 BSc (Honours) Sustainable Timber Technology has been developed from, and replaces, B.Tech in Timber Product Technology. It is a 4-year, full-time immersive course featuring a mix of theoretical and skills-based modules (see module lists below). The course is taught in the context of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, with a direct impact for many SDG Targets (e.g. Targets 9.4 and 12.2). Cross-sectoral skills (such as critical thinking, creativity, management, collaboration and professionalism) are an important part of the course supporting the central focus on wood science, timber skills and production management. The course has strong links with industry and work placement takes place in the sixth semester. Field trips and guest lectures supplement the academic content of the course.

Through choice of elective modules, work placement and thesis the student will develop a unique mix of skills and knowledge to ensure employment in the part of the Forest Products Sector that interests them most.