Education in Wood Science and Technology: A Status Report

This report summarizes the current status of wood science and technology programs in North American universities as determined by questionnaires sent to the various institutions. The 25 undergraduate programs in North America were characterized in terms of their growth and academic offerings. Enrollment in undergraduate programs has increased in size during the decade of the '70's while enrollment in graduate programs has leveled off. A typical program has 42 undergraduate and 9 graduate students enrolled. Since 1964 the number of B.S. programs has increased 32%, while the number of M. S. programs has increased by 19%. During the same time period, the number of Ph.D. programs has grown by 69%. The typical program today is very close in academic offerings 10 the ideal program proposed by Ellis. Employment of B.S. graduates is characterized in terms of employing industry, job type, and region. The demand for B.S. graduates is currently 2:1 with future demand expected to be 3:1. Average starting salary data by regions are presented. Respondents favored accreditation of academic programs but believed licensing of wood technologists inappropriate.