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Explore Plant Biology
The Botany major (B.A. and B.S.) at Miami University provides comprehensive training in plant biology, examining organisms from microscopic algae to the world’s tallest trees. Students explore plant structure, function, evolution, and ecological roles while building a strong foundation in plant science, ecology, molecular biology, genetics, physiology, taxonomy, environmental science, and biodiversity conservation. Through a combination of classroom learning, laboratory research, and fieldwork, majors develop essential skills in plant identification, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, using modern techniques to address environmental and sustainability challenges.
With an emphasis on hands-on experience, students engage in undergraduate research, internships, and field-based studies that connect theory to real-world applications. Graduates are well prepared for careers in environmental science, conservation, agriculture, horticulture, biotechnology, and sustainability, as well as for admission to graduate and professional programs. The Botany degree equips students with the scientific expertise and practical skills needed to advance plant research, manage ecosystems, and promote the sustainable use of natural resources.
Curriculum and Courses
The courses you choose will open up a wealth of career opportunities — not lock you into one occupation. You’ll extend your education way beyond the classroom to every area of your life.
While many of the course requirements and elective selections are the same across both degrees. there are a few notable differences:
Biology, B.A.
Requires a Biology Writing Sequence
Biology, B.S.
STEM Focussed: Requires a Chemistry course block, a Physics or Geology course, and a Statistics course
Please consult Miami’s course catalog or an academic advisor for guidance.
B.A./B.S. Botany Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate how to collect, summarize, analyze and interpret scientific data
- Develop the skills to communicate research findings and scientific knowledge to experts and non-specialists
- Understand the structure and functions of plants, how they interact with other organisms, and how they function within ecological and global systems
My favorite thing about research is that for a short period of time, you can discover something no one else in the world knows. That feeling is what motivates me through every difficult assay and every failed experiment.
Krystina Hird ’19
What Can I Do With a Major in Botany
The Botany major is chosen by many students seeking a career in environmental assessment, agriculture, or horticulture. It is also selected by those who wish to teach in the biological sciences or to conduct research in environmental science.
Botany majors are highly successful at gaining admission into graduate and professional schools or entering the profession in education, industry, government, and non-governmental organizations.
Many of our graduates become teachers, researchers, or park naturalists upon graduation, or enter graduate schools in ecology and molecular biology, among other fields. They have a high success rate of entry into medical and law schools (with some of the latter specializing in environmental or patent law.)
Facts and Stats
Your college experience here will be one of the most exciting times of your life. To make sure of this, we’ll provide you with a powerful support system.
of first-year students return for their second year
Miami University Data
in Ohio and No. 26 nationally among public research universities
IPEDS Data
Public university in the U.S. for long-term career success
LinkedIn Best Colleges 2025
Admission and Aid
Explore what it means to be a college student at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where students prepare to go anywhere and everywhere. We’ll be here to help every step of the way as you prepare for college admission, enrollment, and success.
Contact Us
Undergraduate Admission
513-529-2531
[email protected]
Department of Biology
Rich Moore, Ph.D.
Lead Departmental Advisor
Pearson Hall 394
700 E. High St., Oxford, OH 45056
[email protected]
513-529-4278