Botany - B.S. Download to print

The Bachelor of Science in Botany deals with the scientific study of plants, and understanding how they provide us with aesthetic beauty as well as materials for our basic needs, such as food, shelter and oxygen. Botanical research has diverse applications in modern horticulture, agriculture, soil science and forestry, as well as pharmacology and biotechnology. Students may seek employment immediately after graduation in the private, public or nonprofit sectors, or continue their education in graduate or professional programs. 

Many students completing an undergraduate botany degree will go on for additional education in graduate or professional programs.  Other students will opt to enter directly into the workforce upon Bachelors degree completion in fields related to the economic importance of plants including agriculturally-based and related professions, environmental consulting or in federal, state or local agencies. The Department of Biological Sciences has several mechanisms to help students prepare for their future careers. All students, particularly those who plan to go on to graduate school or seek employment directly after degree completion, are strongly encouraged to complete research projects, through our Individual Investigation course, and/or do an internship in the area in which they plan to be employed.  In addition, we offer BSCI 30105, Career Pathways in Biology, which provides students a chance to learn more about career paths and how to achieve their goals.  Lastly, students are expected to meet regularly with their faculty advisor to talk about career options, get help in selecting electives, and discuss ways to get experience required for their career goals.

General Admissions for Freshman Students: Admission Requirements at the Kent Campus: The freshman admission policy at the Kent Campus is selective. Admission decisions are based upon the following: cumulative grade point average, ACT and/or SAT scores, strength of high school college preparatory curriculum and grade trends.

The university affirmatively strives to provide educational opportunities and access to students with varied backgrounds, those with special talents and adult students who graduated from high school three or more years ago. For more information on admissions, visit the admissions website for new freshmen.
 

For more information about admission criteria for transfer, transitioning and former students, please visit the admissions website.

Minimum 120 total credit hours and 42 upper-division credit hours. Minimum 2.000 overall GPA and 2.000 major GPA.
 

Graduates of this program will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental biological principles as outlined in specific courses. 
2. Acquire fundamental skills necessary for laboratory and field investigations. 
3. Demonstrate an understanding of proper experimental design, analysis of biological data and communication of research results. 
4. Demonstrate a greater knowledge and appreciation of the role that biology plays in societal issues, such as those related to the environment, biodiversity, ethics, human health and disease.