The plant science program prepares students for careers or further study in areas related to food, fiber, turfgrass, ornamental plant production, pest management, plant breeding, plant pathology, or plant science education. The curriculum offers three options: the Horticulture and Turf Industry option, for students intending to pursue careers in the plant business industry; the General Plant Biology Option, for students intending to pursue careers in research laboratories or graduate study; and the Natural Products option, for students interested in historical and cultural botany, economic botany (the study of the interaction of people and plants), and indigenous and modern medicinal plants. Agronomists and crop scientists help increase productivity and study ways to improve the nutritional value of crops and the quality of seed. Some crop scientists study the breeding, physiology and management of crops and use genetic engineering to develop crops resistant to pests and drought. In addition, the study of plants often has direct applications to the study of human cells and ultimately the understanding of the human body and its functions.

A bachelor's degree is sufficient for advanced technician jobs in the medical field, lab research assistant positions, or testing and inspection jobs. An advanced degree is required for most other positions in the scientific field. While most plant science graduates work in related occupations and eventually obtain advanced degrees, others choose different directions. Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Regardless of your career choices, increase your marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades, and involvement in college activities.

Marine Chemistry. This option prepares students for professional opportunities or graduate study in oceanography or chemistry.

Marine Geology. This option prepares students for graduate study in oceanography, geology, environmental science, or an allied field, as well as for immediate employment.

Physical Oceanography. This option prepares students for graduate study in physical oceanography, meteorology, fluid dynamics, or a related field, as well as immediate employment in environmental agencies or consulting firms and technical positions in marine sciences.

Directed Marine Studies. This option prepares students for professional opportunities in oceanography or the biological sciences. It differs from the other four options in requiring completion of one of six minor or certificate programs to enhance certain skills valued by employers.

While many graduates work in related occupations and may eventually obtain advanced degrees, others choose another direction. Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Regardless of your career choices, increase your marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and involvement in college activities.

• Explore the career paths of Student-Alumni Career Connections mentors.
• Discover your interests and take our Career Cluster Survey.
• Explore Rutgers University academic department information related to this major.
• See the Occupational Outlook Handbook for additional career information.