Plant Biology - B.S.

The Plant Biology major is aimed at giving students a broad understanding of plant and/or fungal biology relevant to current environmental and societal challenges, and thus relevant to jobs. The plant biology major includes several core classes similar to a biology major (e.g. genetics, evolution) but provides the flexibility to build an interdisciplinary program of study from a broader range of courses and pursue an emphasis in either ecology/environment or biotechnology/bioinformatics/genomics. Advanced plant biology classes are typically small and promote interactive learning with combinations of lab and lecture experiences. Independent research is a central theme in our department, because directed study in the field or laboratory with a faculty member gives the student first-hand experience with the scientific process and builds skills relevant for careers in science.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a major in Plant Biology is a liberal arts degree with a concentration in the plant sciences. It prepares students for ecologically or biotechnology oriented careers focusing on the plants that are foundational to earth’s biota and essential for supplying the world with food, fuel, and fiber