Undergraduate Studies

Are you interested in the outdoors, science, sports, being creative, or healthy living?

Undergraduate students in the Department of Plant Sciences are part of the Herbert College of Agriculture. Learn about admissionsscheduling a visittaking a self-guided tourscholarships, and Herbert student life

Please do not hesitate to contact your advisor, a faculty member, Undergraduate Coordinator Andy Pulte, or Administrative Assistant for Student Records Sandy Kitts if you have any questions, need guidance, or have suggestions.

Explore Our Concentrations

Upon choosing the Plant Sciences major, undergraduate students are required to select a concentration. This specialized set of classes is designed to help you gain knowledge toward your desired career path. Students who successfully complete prescribed coursework will receive a Bachelor of Science in Plant Sciences.

a jumbled group of bright orange pumpkins in the sunlight
Horticulture Science and Production
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Large white Magnolia blooms hang in the sun
Public Horticulture
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Seedlings sprout from dark soil
Organic Production
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a wide clear straight riverbed meanders along a trees with autumnal orange leaves
Sustainable Landscape Design
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green plant matter sits in a Petri dish on a white countertop
Plant Genetics and Biotechnology
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A lone soccer ball sits on a natural turf field
Turfgrass Science and Management
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A Plant Sciences Minor complements many majors.

Plant Sciences strives to make special connections with our students. Faculty advisors assist undergraduates choosing curriculum, including departmental courses, electives, and a minor. These professors mentor students applying to undergraduate research positions, paid internships, and study abroad opportunities. Establishing personal relationships and tailoring coursework prepares you for the career of your choice.

The Herbert Ambassadors, a group of diverse students who lead campus activities, pose in matching grey polos in front of a barn
Visit with us to meet a Herbert Ambassador and Plant Sciences representative.

Learn why you should major in Plant Sciences.


Professional Development

Students have the option of including undergraduate research and Extension work, a minor, and paid internship into their coursework. Participating in these and other opportunities get you hired.

Leaving an undergraduate career with experience in state of the art research facilities sets you apart in the workforce.

Extension gives you the opportunity to assist agents, contribute to publications, and interact with the public.

Minors are useful gaining knowledge in diverse areas that make you more marketable when searching for employment.

Clubs and other extracurriculars are resume builders and outlets to expand and hone your professional skills.

A student poses with a sign that says, "# UTK Plant Drop," for the event that gave thousands of free plants away.

Join the UT Plant Sciences Club to connect with a range of students that have a uniting interest— plants. Check them out on Instagram, and participate in events like the #UTKPlantDrop.

UT Plant Science Club members pose with their display at a UT Herbert event.
Are you interested in earning credit while exploring Plant Sciences internationally?

Student Resources