Rutgers logo
Department of Plant Biology
Floriculture greenhouse

Plant Science Program

Plant Science Major, Minors, and Certificates

About Us

The Plant Science Program prepares students for careers and further study in the diverse areas encompassed by Plant Science, where knowledgeable graduates are in high demand. This includes areas such as agriculture, horticulture, turfgrass management, plant breeding, plant pathology, pest management, as well as plant natural products, and cannabis cultivation.

The Plant Science Program offers one major with three options, five minors, and three certificates, providing students with a fully customizable education that demonstrates excellence and expertise to future employers. Our immersive teaching spaces, including research labs, farms, and greenhouses, provide a wide variety of programming for diverse student interests.

Students majoring in Plant Science choose one of the following track options:

Plant Agriculture and Horticulture option: For students intending to pursue careers in industries that involve food and/or plant production, turfgrass management as well as public gardens.

General Research option: For students intending to gain a strong foundation in the life sciences and pursue careers in research and development and/or graduate studies.

Natural Products option: For students interested in the use of plant natural products for human health, as well as modern commercial applications of plant products in various industries (e.g., cannabis, flavors, fragrance, personal care etc.).

Minors: Agroecology, Horticultural Therapy, Medicinal and Economic Botany, and Plant Science.

Certificates: Horticultural Therapy, Medicinal and Economic Botany, and Turfgrass Science.

Explore the Plant Science Major Program

Plant Science Major Options

A major is defined as a primary plan of study toward a bachelor's degree.

Student Testimonials

My experience as a Plant Science student

Students speak about their experiences in each of the three options of the major.

  • Plant Agriculture and Horticulture Option
  • General Research Option
  • Natural Products Option
Student's graduation cap

Program Minors and Certificates