Is botany your vibe? Here’s what the major actually covers

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Key takeaways about a botany major

A botany major is all about studying plants—from their DNA to their role in ecosystems.
You’ll take courses in biology, chemistry, ecology, and plant physiology.
Botany majors can work in research, conservation, agriculture, and more.
It’s different from horticulture, which focuses more on growing and managing plants.
Scholly Scholarships and Scout College Search can help you find the right fit and funding.

Why study botany?

Plants are low-key superheroes. They feed us, clean our air, and hold ecosystems together. Studying botany means you’ll understand the science behind all that—and maybe even help protect it.

Plus, if you’re into sustainability, climate change, or food security, botany gives you the tools to make a real impact. It’s also a great fit if you love being outdoors, doing lab work, or asking big questions about the natural world.

So, what is a botany major?

If you’ve ever been the kid who stops to admire a weird-looking mushroom or wonders how trees survive winter, botany might be your thing. A botany major is the study of plants—how they grow, how they interact with the environment, and why they matter to everything from food to climate.

You’ll dive into plant biology, genetics, ecology, and even how plants can help solve global problems. It’s a science-heavy major, but it’s also super hands-on and full of discovery.

Botany vs. horticulture: What’s the difference?

This one trips people up a lot. Botany is the scientific study of plants—think research, lab work, and field studies. Horticulture is more about the art and practice of growing plants, like landscaping, gardening, or managing greenhouses.

If you’re more into plant science and discovery, go botany. If you’re into design, cultivation, or running a plant-based business, horticulture might be your vibe.

What will I study as a botany major?

Here’s a peek at the kind of courses you might take:

Plant biology and physiology
Genetics and molecular biology
Ecology and environmental science
Soil science
Mycology (yep, fungi count!)
Plant taxonomy and evolution
Lab and field research methods

You’ll also take general science courses like chemistry, physics, and statistics to round out your skills.

What skills will I learn studying botany?

Botany majors build a solid toolkit of both hard and soft skills, including:

Scientific research and data analysis
Critical thinking and problem-solving
Lab techniques and fieldwork
Communication and collaboration
Environmental awareness and systems thinking

These skills are super transferable, whether you go into science, education, policy, or something else entirely.

Double majors and minors that pair well with botany

If you want to customize your degree, here are some smart combos:

Environmental science – for a broader eco-focus
Chemistry – great for plant biochemistry or pharmaceuticals
Geography or GIS – useful for mapping and fieldwork
Education – if you want to teach
Business or entrepreneurship – for plant-based startups or sustainability consulting

What can I do with a botany degree?

A botany degree opens up a bunch of career paths. Some popular ones include:

Plant biologist or botanist
Environmental consultant
Conservation scientist
Agricultural researcher
Park ranger or naturalist
Science educator
Horticulturist (with the right experience)

Want to explore more options? Check out Scout College Search to see where a botany degree can take you.

How much can I earn with a botany degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, plant scientists—including botanists—earn a median salary of around $74,000 per year. Entry-level roles may start closer to $45,000, while experienced professionals or those with advanced degrees can earn over $100,000, especially in government, research, or private industry. Your exact salary will depend on your job title, location, and education level.

Notable schools for botany majors

If you're serious about studying plants, look for schools with strong biology departments, access to greenhouses or botanical gardens, and opportunities for field research. Here are a few standout options:

University of California, Davis – Known for agricultural and environmental sciences
Cornell University – Offers plant biology and horticulture programs
University of Wisconsin–Madison – Strong in ecology and plant pathology
University of Florida – Offers botany and plant science degrees with tropical focus
Colorado State University – Great for plant ecology and conservation

Use Scout College Search to explore more schools that match your interests and goals.

Scholarships for botany majors

If you’re thinking about majoring in botany, don’t sleep on the scholarship opportunities out there. You can start by exploring scholarships by major, which include options specifically for plant science students. The Scholly Scholarships platform is another great resource—it helps match you with awards based on your background and interests. If you’re looking for something quick and easy, the $2K No Essay Scholarship is a solid option with minimal effort required. And for botany-focused funding, check out scholarships for botany majors to find programs that support students just like you.

If you’re curious, observant, and care about the planet, botany could be a perfect fit. It’s a major that blends science, nature, and real-world impact. Whether you want to work in a lab, a forest, or a classroom, a botany degree gives you options—and a chance to grow something meaningful.