THE SCHOOL OF FORESTRY AND WILDLIFE SCIENCES has a long tradition of offering educational programs that prepare graduates for employment in a wide variety of natural resource professions. Natural areas, forests and their associated resources play a unique and increasingly important role in contemporary society. They enhance both economic development and environmental quality. The School's programs emphasize a comprehensive understanding of interrelationships between the functions and values of diverse renewable natural resources. This awareness is essential to effective management and, ultimately, to meeting society's needs.<br><br>In keeping with the University's land-grant mission, the School's goals are to pursue excellence in education, research, and extension (including outreach and public service activities) focused on the forests, wildlife, and associated resources of Alabama and the southeastern United States. With respect to undergraduate education, this focus is on preparing graduates who have the necessary skills for initial employment, with the breadth and depth of educational background to support professional growth and continued career advancement. The result of this directed effort from an energized faculty and administration are motivated graduates who have the foundation to master the art and science of managing wild lands for the betterment of both the local and global communities.