PLANT SCIENCE

Checklists

The Plant Science area in the College of Agriculture and Technology has a tradition of research and education in crop production, horticulture, soil management, and precision agriculture technologies.  We have an outstanding faculty who are developing management strategies for crop production, environmental protection, horticultural production, landscape management and maintenance, as well as preparing the future generation of land managers and agricultural professionals. 

The Plant Science degree in the College of Agriculture and Technology has three main emphasis areas: Agronomy, Science/Research, and Environmental Horticulture.

1. Agronomy

The agronomy emphasis area focuses on crop production and soil management.  Agronomy students will find many job opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Potential employers are numerous and include (but are not limited to) seed companies, crop consultants, state and county extension agencies, state and federal regulatory agencies, US and state departments of agriculture, fertilizer and chemical companies, etc.

2. Science/Research

The science/research emphasis is designed for those who desire to be involved in the agricultural research arena. Students with this emphasis are well prepared to continue with their education in pursuing advanced degrees or working in research oriented positions in the private and public sectors. Graduates in this degree program are often employed by similar companies and agencies as the agronomy graduates, but work in the research laboratories and monitor the field research. This emphasis area is also a good option for those planning to pursue a career in biotechnology.

3. Environmental Horticulture

Horticulture is that branch of plant science which deals with the production of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants including flowers, trees, shrubs, and turf grasses.  Horticulture is an extremely diverse field encompassing greenhouse production of flowering crops, foliage plants, garden center operation, landscape design, vegetable and fruit breeding, pest and weed management, public garden management, horticultural therapy, and many more.