Applied Plant Biology (B.A.)
Program Overview
The B.A. degree in applied plant biology is designed for students who are interested in the plant sciences as they apply to commercial enterprises, such as greenhouses, nurseries, landscaping, diversified and small scale agriculture, biofuels, and medicinal herbs. The course work in this program provides students with foundational knowledge of plant biology with the option of training in greenhouse management, sustainable agriculture, soil ecology, plant pathology, plant breeding, and/or medicinal plants. In addition to providing a background in applied plant biology, the program includes course work in economics, biology and communications. To help prepare students for their career, an internship is required. The flexibility in this program allows for either a minor or second major in another discipline, e.g. economics, business administration, communications and others, if desired.
Admissions Information
Freshman/First-Year Admission
No requirements beyond University admission requirements.
Change of Program Policy
No selective or limited admission requirements.
External Transfer Admission
No requirements beyond University admission requirements.
Opportunities Upon Graduation
This program prepares students for entry level jobs in fields such as landscaping, diversified agriculture, horticulture, nurseries, tree care, and plant breeding. In order to enhance job prospects, students in this program are required to complete an internship in one of these areas. Faculty in the plant biology department will assist students in locating appropriate internships. Listings of internship opportunities can be found at the following web sites:
- www.theasca.org
- www.americorps.org/serve/fit-finder/americorps-vista
- https://careers.conbio.org/jobs/internship/
- Handshake
If you plan to pursue graduate studies in plant biology or a related biological science, a B.S. degree would be more appropriate. Consult a departmental advisor for assistance in selecting a program to prepare you for an advanced degree.