Botany
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The objectives of the majors are: (1) to foster curiosity, understanding, and appreciation for living things and processes; (2) to prepare a student for further academic training in graduate programs; and/or (3) to prepare a person for employment in a professional area. Further, as a result of exposure to intensive academic study in these related areas, the student will be capable of communicating in and coping with a technologically sophisticated society. The biology, botany and zoology majors are sufficiently broad based to allow latitude for student choice in developing a program suitable to individual needs. Students desiring emphasis in a specific area of the Biological Sciences may select one of several Biology degree emphases.
Favorable opportunities can be expected for biological scientists with advanced degrees and for bachelor’s candidates with outstanding educational and experiential backgrounds. The major factors that underlie growth in the biological sciences are: (1) continued need to increase biological productivity, (2) growth in genetic engineering, and (3) maintaining a biologically healthful environment. Those with only bachelor’s degrees will be affected the most in competing for jobs. It will become more difficult each year for someone with a bachelor’s degree to advance beyond “technician” positions.
Expansion of research and development programs will create jobs for biological scientists in certain specialties. Rapid growth is expected in medical research programs and applications in genetic engineering and biotechnology. Biological scientists will be in demand to fill positions in expanding research programs concerned with causes and cures of cancer, heart disease, and birth defects. The biological processes underlying crop production, disease control, and maintenance of biological diversity will require increased research activities.
The employability of biological science graduates will depend a great deal on individual preparation, area specialization and related work or volunteer experience.
Degrees Offered
BS, Minor