The Shadow
Clifton Forge, Va. (VR) — Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) is expanding its academic offerings to better serve students interested in environmental stewardship and conservation.
Starting in the Fall of 2026, the college’s highly acclaimed 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 #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.
To further student success and career entry, this new degree qualifies for VCCS G3 funding. This program provides vital financial support after other means of tuition assistance have been exhausted. By reducing financial barriers, MGCC aims to make high-quality STEM education more accessible for students entering the critical fields of conservation and natural resource management.
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, please visit mgcc.edu.
