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Plant science courses

Plant science is the study of the biology of plants, their relationship to the environment and how we can use this knowledge to solve major problems such as climate change and food and energy shortages. You will spend time in the lab as well as on field trips. This type of course can lead to research careers in universities or bioscience companies or employment in agricultural, horticultural, environmental services or conservation fields.

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Example course modules

Genes, cells and populations
Ecosystems and environmental change
Plant biodiversity
Reproduction, development and growth
Data transfer, analysis and presentation
Whole organism biology
Sex, flowers, and biotechnology
Genetic improvement of crop plants
Plant microbe interactions
Field crops

Teaching hours / week

Average for this subject

Hours

Average for all subjects

Average hours for this subject: 15 (Low N/A - High N/A). Average hours for all subjects: 14.

The time you'll spend in lectures and seminars each week will vary from university to university, so use this as a guide.

More on studying and contact hours at uni

Who studies this subject

Female : 53%

Male : 47%
Mature : 32%

School leaver : 68%
Full-time : 98%

Part-time : 2%

Student

Doing a science-based course on my campus means that I actually do have a lot of lecture time. The lectures are very easy to talk to no matter what the problem is, and very unde...

2nd year, University of Nottingham

Student

There is enough of a balance of teaching and private time to balance your life if you use it correctly, the same as if you spend enough time on the challenging parts of a course...

1st year, University of Nottingham

Student

There is a mix of essays, e...

2nd year, The University of Edinburgh

Subjects you need

A-levels (or equivalent) usually required

Chemistry
Biology

Useful to have

Psychology
Physics
Mathematics

Application checklist

Here's a guide to what to expect from the application process - also check individual university entry requirements, as these may differ.

January application
October application
Personal statement
Portfolio
Interview
Entry test
Work experience
Audition

Personal statement advice

Your personal statement is a core part of your university application, and getting it just right takes time. Before you start work on yours, take a look at our five quick tips on writing a personal statement. We'll help you past that writer's block!

Only a handful of students take botany or plant science for a first degree - the subject is mostly studied at Masters or doctorate-level graduates. Last year's botany graduates were most likely to be working six month after graduation, but it might be a good idea to go on open days and talk to tutors about what previous graduates from your chosen subject went on to do.

Professional and accrediting bodies: