The knowledge of chemistry, biology, genomics, and mathematics gained from a major in Plant Sciences provides a scientific background that can be applied to a variety of specialized fields, including biotechnology, environmental horticulture, sustainable agriculture, and developmental and cell biology. Graduates might work as researchers, consultants, conservation advocates, educators, or project managers. This major is also excellent preparation for graduate studies in microbiology, pharmacy, agriculture, or medicine.
Potential Career Areas:
- Research
- Species surveillance
- Conservation
- Horticulture
- Biofuels production
- Agriculture
- Education
- Consulting
- Project management
Sample Employers:
- Conservation organizations
- Schools and universities
- Medical and research laboratories
- Consulting firms
- Wilderness and parks services
- Farms
- Gardens and arboretums
- Biotechnology companies
- Government agencies
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Plant Scientist
|
$34,400 - $57,300
|
|
Horticulturist
|
$42,000 - $60,000
|
|
Botanist
|
$43,500 - $61,500
|
|
Biofuels Production Manager
|
$52,600 - $87,200
|
|
Research Associate
|
$21,000 - $61,000
|
|
Field Teacher
|
$20,000 - $40,000
|
|
Park Naturalist
|
$20,000 - $49,000
|
|
Environmental Specialist, Government
|
$35,000 - $80,000
|
|
Arborist
|
$19,822 - $29,972
|
|
Biotechnologist
|
$33,650 - $93,460
|
|
Agriculture Scientist
|
$33,790 - $59,520
|
|
Horticultural Inspector
|
$25,380 - $41,170
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).