Skip to content
CIP 26.0399 Biological and Biomedical Sciences

Botany/Plant Biology, Other

IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education · 2025

Total graduates

58

2025 · 5 schools

International share

5.2%

3 international students

Bachelor's degrees

12

0.0% international

Master's degrees

20

0.0% international

Overview

Botany, or Plant Biology, is a branch of biology that focuses on the study of plants, their structure, function, growth, evolution, and ecology. This field encompasses a wide range of topics, including plant physiology, taxonomy, genetics, and environmental interactions. Students studying botany gain a deep understanding of plant life, from the molecular level to entire ecosystems, making it a crucial discipline for addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and biodiversity loss.

Programs in Botany/Plant Biology often include both theoretical coursework and practical laboratory experiences. Students may engage in field studies, allowing them to observe and collect data on plant species in their natural habitats. Research opportunities are abundant, with potential focuses on areas such as plant conservation, agricultural improvement, and the development of sustainable practices.

Careers in this field are diverse, ranging from academic and research positions to roles in government agencies, conservation organizations, and agricultural industries. Graduates may work as botanists, plant pathologists, ecologists, or environmental consultants, among other professions. The knowledge gained in a Botany/Plant Biology program prepares students to contribute to scientific advancements and to promote the sustainable use of plant resources.

Overall, Botany/Plant Biology is an essential field that not only deepens our understanding of the natural world but also plays a significant role in addressing some of the most pressing issues facing society today.

Graduates by year

Graduates by degree level (first and second majors)

AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral

From 2002 to 2025, graduates fell 9% and the international share went from 14.1% to 5.2%.

International share (%)
Graduates by group, 2025
White
79.3%
Asian
3.4%
Hispanic
5.2%
Black
0.0%
Other
6.9%
Intl.
5.2%

Colleges that award this degree

In 2025, 5 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings.

RankSchoolStateGraduatesInternational
#9 Northwestern University Illinois 18 0
#16 Washington University in St Louis Missouri 8 2
#59 University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Minnesota 16 0
#156 Oregon State University Oregon 7 1
#288 Utah State University Utah 6 0

Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.

Related jobs and pay

OccupationUS employmentMean hourly wageMean annual wage
Natural Sciences Managers 108,690 $86.66 $180,250
Biological Scientists, All Other 55,850 $51.12 $106,330
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary 50,190 — $102,840
Soil and Plant Scientists 15,730 $42.17 $87,720

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.

Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2002–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.