Idaho State University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in core biological principles and then focuses on plant-specific topics. Core study areas include plant anatomy and morphology, plant physiology, plant taxonomy and systematics, plant ecology, plant genetics and molecular biology. Students take supporting courses in general and organic chemistry, ecology, mathematics or statistics, and scientific communication.

Practical learning is emphasised through laboratory courses, field botany and identification, and hands-on instruction in microscopy and laboratory techniques. Many students complete an undergraduate research project, capstone experience or internship to integrate classroom learning with applied work in greenhouse, laboratory or field settings.

• Introductory and advanced plant biology
• Plant physiology and biochemistry
• Systematics, taxonomy and field identification
• Plant ecology and conservation biology
• Molecular genetics and laboratory methods
• Soil-plant relationships and plant-animal interactions
• Biostatistics and data analysis for biological research
• Research methods, capstone project or internship

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent and should demonstrate strength in biology, chemistry and mathematics from their secondary school record. Typical preparation includes courses in biology, chemistry (at least one year), algebra or precalculus, and strong written and quantitative skills. Admissions consider overall academic record and may require minimum GPA thresholds; transfer students must submit college transcripts and meet the university's transfer credit policies.

Students with an interest in research or fieldwork are encouraged to highlight relevant experience such as volunteer work, internships or independent projects. Those without prior laboratory experience can usually begin the programme but should expect to take introductory laboratory courses early in their degree.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in Botany/Plant Biology pursue a range of careers in both the public and private sectors or continue to graduate training. Common pathways include work as botanical technicians, ecological or conservation field staff, horticulturists or greenhouse managers, nursery and restoration specialists, and environmental consultants. Graduates also move into laboratory roles in plant genetics or pathology, or into education and outreach positions.

Many alumni go on to postgraduate study (MSc, PhD) in plant sciences, ecology, conservation biology or related disciplines to advance into research, policy or academic careers. The degree provides a strong foundation for employment with governmental natural resource agencies, non-profit conservation organisations, botanical gardens, agricultural and horticultural businesses, and environmental consulting firms.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers close faculty mentoring and opportunities for undergraduate research within a smaller university setting. The regional landscape provides immediate access to diverse ecosystems—mountain forests, high-desert shrublands and riparian corridors—ideal for field-based study and ecological research.

Students benefit from a curriculum that blends laboratory skills, molecular instruction and field identification, plus internships with community partners and industry. The programme emphasises practical experience, preparing graduates to enter the workforce or continue to advanced study with solid hands-on skills and field experience.