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About this program

Horticulture and crop science is where passion for plants meets practical application. From maximizing yields in row crops to developing resilient ornamental landscapes and perfecting fruit and vegetable quality, it covers the full spectrum of plant life. You'll learn how to provide the world with plants for food, environmental improvement, pleasure and recreation.

Specializations

Agroecology focuses on understanding and applying ecological principles in crop production to integrate natural biological cycles and controls, make efficient use of resources, enhance environmental quality and increase biodiversity.

Agronomy is the application of biological, chemical and physical principles to crops and cropping systems to increase their efficiency in converting light and supplemental resources into food, feed and fiber products. You’ll learn to effectively regulate crop productivity through management decisions as you study the interrelationships among physical and biological factors. 

Controlled environment agriculture is an interdisciplinary crop production science integrating horticultural science, plant health management, applied environmental science and applied biological engineering to achieve sustainable crop production in various climate regions. You'll take classes in plant science, greenhouse management, hydroponics, fruit and vegetable production, plant health management, agricultural meteorology and introductory engineering principles.

Horticulture is the application of scientific principles to grow vegetables, fruits, ornamental plants and landscape design, as well as business principles to sell the commodities. You’ll learn basic characteristics of a wide variety of plants; including how they grow, develop, reproduce and adapt to different environments. You’ll be able to create optimal growing conditions for a plant to have higher yield and reduce potential problems such as pests and diseases.

Plant biosciences is a broad study of plant biology including plant form and function, diversity, reproduction, evolution and uses of plants.

Turfgrass science studies the grasses used to enhance our environment. Turf reduces glare, noise, air pollution, heat buildup and visual pollution. Turf provides recreational benefits to sporting events as well as creates aesthetically attractive surrounds for homes, buildings and cities. You’ll learn to manage and maintain turf as you gain knowledge in plant biology, soil and turfgrass science.

What can I do with this degree?

Graduates in horticulture and crop science study how plants grow, thrive and support food systems and landscapes. Through hands-on experiences in greenhouses, labs and fields, students prepare for careers in plant production, research, landscape management and environmental sustainability.

Plant Production and Crop Management

  • Crop production specialist
  • Agronomist
  • Integrated pest management director
  • Ranch or farm manager

 

Landscape and Horticulture 

  • Landscape designer
  • Nursery or greenhouse manager
  • Turfgrass manager

 

Plant Science and Research

  • Plant science research technician
  • Laboratory technician
  • Plant breeding assistant

 

Agricultural Industry and Consulting

  • Crop consultant
  • Seed or fertilizer technical representative
  • Precision agriculture specialist
  • Plant biotechnology careers
  • Pharmaceutical / bioindustry roles

 

Public Service

  • USDA / government roles
  • Planning agencies
  • Conservation scientist
  • Botanical garden manager
  • Agricultural science teacher

Curriculum

Grow the future of food, landscapes, and sustainable environments

Explore how plants support food systems, ecosystems and recreation.
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