Botany Undergraduate Major (BS, HBS)

Students majoring in Botany study the fundamental biology of plants and fungi from molecular and cellular to the global ecosystem level. The curriculum includes core classes in plant structure, systematic, ecology, and physiology, along with courses in biochemistry, cell biology, and genetics. Students also learn how to apply their knowledge to current issues and problems of in food production, conservation, and healthy ecosystems. All Botany undergraduate students are required to complete a focus area and its corresponding course work as part of the Botany undergraduate major. A student may choose more than one focus area; course work for focus areas should commence by the junior year. Course work delivered in these areas provides students with advanced knowledge and skills related to the study of plants and plant-like organisms in natural and managed ecosystems and in the laboratory. Students can choose one of the following options: Botanical Research Fungal Biology Plant Ecology and Systematics Plant Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology Pre-Professional Teaching Botany Botanical Research The Botanical Research option is designed for those undergraduate majors who desire to obtain the intensive research experience associated with the development of a thesis project. Pre-Professional Teaching Botany The Pre-Professional Teaching option (24 to 26 credits), together with a BS in Botany, will complete the course requirements for admission to the Professional Teacher Education Licensure Program offered by the College of Education at Oregon State University. Prior to entering the initial licensure programs, students are also required to complete a series of tests specified by the licensure programs, including the basic skills test, multiple subject assessment tests, and approved subject matter tests for specific teaching endorsement areas. Students electing to complete this option should note that admission to the licensure program is on a competitive basis. Completion of the option does not guarantee admission to the licensure program.