Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) is expanding its academic offerings to better serve students interested in environmental stewardship and conservation.
Starting this fall, the college’s forestry program will introduce a specialized track within its Science Associate of Science (AS) degree. While this degree provides a broad foundation across STEM fields, this new pathway is specifically geared toward students pursuing a four-year degree in natural resources and forestry.
This curriculum was developed in collaboration with Virginia Tech, home to the No. 1 four-year forestry program in the United States. The program streamlines the transfer process, allowing students to complete five specific forestry courses alongside initial mathematics, science, and humanities requirements at MGCC. This preparation ensures students are ready for the rigors of a top-tier university before diving into intensive, major-specific study during their final two years, said a spokesperson.
To further student success and career entry, this new degree qualifies for VCCS G3 funding. This program provides financial support after other means of tuition assistance have been exhausted.
The science AS degree is designed for completion in four semesters of full-time study. The curriculum is fully configured to support Transfer Virginia Pathways, ensuring a seamless transition to four-year institutions.
For more information on the science AS degree and the forestry pathway, visit mgcc.edu.
