Skip Navigation

University of Nebraska–Lincoln

College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR)

Explore the Science of Life

Plant Biology

Program Definition
The Plant Biology degree program trains students in the modern life-sciences using plants as model systems.  Students completing the program will be able to pursue careers in medicine and allied health professions, graduate training in biomedical sciences, natural resources conservation, environmental consulting, crop protection and seed industries. Approximately one-half of Plant Biology graduates go on to pursue graduate or professional degrees. 

Nebraska Points of Distinction
  • Faculty have won awards for both teaching and research
  • A dedicated group of academic advisers
  • The degree program is offered through two Colleges (Arts & Sciences, and Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources)
  • Requirements met by majors satisfy most Pharmacy School and Allied Health School admissions requirements, and prepare students for graduate training in the sciences
  • Hands-on research experience through one-on-one interactions in faculty research labs and field research sites
  • High degree of interactions between undergraduate students, graduate students and faculty
  • Outstanding opportunities to intern in potential career/interest areas
Classrooms and teaching laboratories in the Beadle Center, Manter Hall and newly remodeled Hardin Hall and Keim Hall/Plant Science Complex
  • Modern multimedia classrooms and teaching labs
  • State-of-the-art research labs
  • A large number of attached and near-by greenhouses
  • Faculty researchers in areas spanning molecular biology to ecology
  • Core research facilities for microscopy, DNA analysis and bioinformatics

    On and off-campus grasslands, arboretums, and croplands for teaching and student research 
Program Expectations
  • Cultivate a passion for understanding and exploring how plants obtain energy, develop, grow, and respond to their environment
  • Thrive in foundational courses in mathematics, chemistry and the life-sciences
  • Gain authentic research experience by working in the laboratory or field with a faculty mentor
  • Develop skills in oral and written communication
  • Demonstrate leadership and interpersonal skills
  • Conduct internships to gain experience
  • Describe essential elements of prominent and controversial issues in plant sciences and ecology
Faculty
http://plantbiology.unl.edu/?q=research.html
OUTCOMES:
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?
With a professional degree in plant biology, the following careers are possible in:
  • Crop engineering
  • Pesticide/insecticide development
  • Patent law
  • Biodegradation/bioremediation research
  • Forensic science
  • Pharmacy
  • Medicine/health sciences
  • Cooperative extension
  • Plant and soil analysis laboratories
  • State and federal land management and regulatory agencies
  • Private conservation organizations
  • Environmental consulting

Contacts:
Dr. Ellen Paparozzi
Plant Biology Degree Program
Department of Agronomy and Horticulture
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, NE  68583-0724
etp1@unl.edu

College of Arts and Sciences
College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
Career Services

SCHEDULE INFORMATION
Sample Schedule Of Classes