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Department of Plant Biology
Rutgers logo
Department of Plant Biology
Rutgers logo
Department of Plant Biology
Rutgers logo
Department of Plant Biology

What Can You Do with a Plant Science Major

Plant Scientists can work in a wide range of fields in different sectors such as industry (e.g., agricultural, horticultural, chemical, personal care, fragrance), academia (e.g., colleges and universities), government (e.g., USDA-ARS, USDA-APHIS, USDA-AMS, USDA-Forest Service, local parks and county governments/ cooperative extension), and allied health professions (e.g., Horticultural Therapy).

 With a degree in Plant Science, you can:   

  • Help produce nutritious food to support a growing population. 
  • Breed new plants to help combat climate change (e.g., disease resistance, drought/heat stress tolerance). 
  • Prepare for graduate school, or a career in healthcare/allied health professions (yes, it is possible!). 
  • Implement and optimize methods of crop production for crops in urban and agricultural settings. 
  • Work in the cannabis industry (cultivation, manufacturing, marketing, sales etc.). 
  • Create innovative products in the flavors, fragrance, and personal care industries. 
  • Pursue a business career in plant supported industries (turfgrass, agriculture, horticulture etc.). 

Where do Plant Science Graduates Work?

Industry (162k PDF)
Government (138k PDF)
Academia (238k PDF)

Career Development Resources

The following list is a sample of the career development resources available from the Office of Career Exploration and Success. Check out their website for a full list of all the resources and opportunities available!