Arthur Temple College of Forestry & Agriculture

  • students working cattle

    Our agriculture students have opportunities to learn about cattle production, farming, education, technology or to take the first step toward veterinary school .

  • geospatial science drone

    Geospatial science students learn state-of-the-art hardware and software along with problem-solving skills that are in demand in a variety of industries. 

  • students studying hydrology

    Our forestry students enjoy easy access to more than 12 million acres of timberland and resources such as the Stephen F. Austin Experimental Forest. 

  • horticulture research

    Through hands-on research, environmental science students understand and can address the complex environmental problems facing modern society.

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Welcome to the Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture

SFA is home to one of the top forestry and agriculture colleges in the nation. Our advanced technology and proximity to natural resources make this the ideal university for students seeking hands-on field research. In addition, our science-based programs and experience-based learning prepare graduates for successful careers with top employers across the country.

College Facts

  • 95%
    JOB PLACEMENT
    WITHIN 6 MONTHS
    OF GRADUATION
  • CLOSE PROXIMITY TO

    12 MILLION

    ACRES OF FOREST
    AND WATER
    RESOURCES
  • $300,000
    IN FORESTRY &
    AGRICULTURE
    SCHOLARSHIPS
  • 726
    ACRE
    RESEARCH
    FARM

Areas of Study

Transformative Experiences

At SFA, we believe students benefit greatly from hands-on learning in and out of the classroom.
Transformative experiences are at the core of our academic philosophy.

student measuring a tree
student with cow and calf
student reviewing charts
students measuring a stream
  • Between their sophomore and junior year, forestry students are immersed in a rigorous six-week field station that provides hands-on experiences in wildlife sampling, timber inventory, surveying and mapping techniques.
  • Students enrolled in advanced beef cattle science plan and execute the SFA Purple Premium Cattle Sale that draws cattle producers from across the region.
  • Students work one-on-one with professors to contribute to peer-reviewed spatial science research.
  • Environmental science students use research to develop solutions to real environmental problems such as air and water pollution.

Lumberjack Spotlight

  • NOBEL PRIZE WINNER. LUMBERJACK.

    Prior to winning a Nobel Prize for her role in authoring the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s fourth assessment report, Dr. Virginia Burkett was a student pursuing a Ph.D. in forestry from SFA. Now, as chief scientist for climate and land use change for the U.S. Geological Survey, Burkett delivers scientific leadership for a number of USGS programs related to climate research.

    Dr. Virginia Burkett

    Dr. Virginia Burkett, chief scientist for climate and land use change, U.S. Geological Survey

  • GREEN THUMB. PURPLE PRIDE.

    The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is recognized as one of the nation’s premier botanical gardens – no doubt thanks in part to the efforts of Department of Agriculture alumna Jenny Wegley. As vice president of horticultural operations, a portion of Wegley’s responsibilities include the management of 66 acres of garden, 17,000 square feet of climate controlled green house space and more than 50 horticultural team members.

    Jenny Wegley

    Jenny Wegley, vice president of horticultural operations, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

  • DR. DAMOFF CREDITED WITH DISCOVERING TWO NEW SPECIES

    Dr. George Damoff is an international leader in megadrilology - the study of earthworms. In 2018 alone, he described and published information on two entirely new species of earthworms - not counting the dozen additional new species under scientific review. Damoff earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in biology at SFA before returning to earn a Ph.D. in forestry. He is an adjunct faculty member in SFA's Division of Environmental Science.

    Dr. George Damoff

    Dr. George Damoff, adjunct faculty member, Division of Environmental Science

Working Side-By-Side

  • Dr. Matthew McBroom talking to student

    Dr. Matthew McBroom

    As a professor of forest hydrology, Dr. Matthew McBroom teaches his students how to convert what they learn in the classroom into real-world solutions in the field. His students are able to apply their knowledge and solve challenges that affect forest habitat and wildlife.

  • Dr. Jerez with students outdoors

    Dr. Sheryl Jerez

    Dr. Sheryl Jerez engages students in rigorous research and coursework that addresses key environmental issues. Her dedication to students and quality of teaching earned her recognition as a 2018 Outstanding Faculty Member by SFA.

  • Dr. Brown with students and cow

    Dr. Erin Brown

    Dr. Erin Brown shares her passion for animal science with her students in and out of the classroom. Brown's labs at the university farm give students hands-on experience in raising and assessing animals, like beef cattle.

  • Dr. Barnes with students in greenhouse

    Dr. Jared Barnes

    Through the micro-farm located on campus, the SFA plantery and through student contributions to the “Horticulture is Awesome!” blog, Dr. Jared Barnes provides opportunities for students to grow as professionals in the field.

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