MONTICELLO, Ark. — The University of Arkansas at Monticello will offer a Ph.D. in forest resources in the spring 2026 semester, following recent approval from the Higher Learning Commission.The University of Arkansas System Board of Trustees approved the program in October 2024. In January 2025, the Arkansas Division of Higher Education Coordinating Board approved a Role and Scope change, allowing UAM to expand its graduate offerings to include doctoral degrees. The new program will be the first Ph.D. offering at UAM and the first Ph.D. in forest resources in Arkansas.Arkansas has historically relied on out-of-state experts for faculty and research in forestry and natural resources. UAM is the only university in Arkansas with an accredited bachelor’s degree program in forestry and offers the state’s only master’s degree and graduate certificate in forestry. With the introduction of its new Ph.D. program, the university will provide the state with a comprehensive “ladder” of degrees in forestry and natural resources.Programs include technical certificates and associate degrees from the UAM College of Technology-Crossett and the UAM College of Technology-McGehee, bachelor’s degrees, graduate certificates, master’s degrees and now, a doctoral degree from UAM. These educational pathways will allow students to enter programs at various levels and pursue advanced studies and careers in forestry and natural resources within the state.Michael Blazier, dean of the College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources at UAM and director of the Arkansas Forest Resources Center for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said the new program will benefit forestry and natural resources professions within Arkansas.“Students will receive the highest level of mentoring from our faculty on research, teaching and outreach,” Blazier said. “Together with the faculty they apprentice with, they’ll bring ne...
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