Biology B.S., Botany Concentration
The Botany concentration at Tennessee Tech provides students with a comprehensive understanding of plant biology, including plant anatomy, morphology, molecular biology, physiology, ecology, plant diversity, and global change. Students engage in hands-on learning that emphasizes the interactions between plants and the environment from molecular to ecosystem levels and the importance of plants in ecological systems and human life. Students gain hands-on experience with advanced techniques including fluorescence microscopy, molecular assays, ecophysiological instrumentation, field studies, data and image analysis, and simulation modeling.
Biology graduates with a concentration in Botany can pursue a variety of careers, including environmental consulting, plant breeding, biotechnology, agronomy, or biodiversity research. Graduates may work in state or federal government agencies, not for profits, natural history museums, or botanical gardens. Their expertise in plant sciences makes them valuable in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable practices. Many students go on to pursue graduate degrees that lead to professional appointments at universities or other governmental agencies.
Career Opportunities and Estimated Salaries:
- Environmental Consultant: $50,000 - $85,000 per year
- Botanical, Plant Science, or Agricultural Researcher: $45,000 - $90,000 per year
- Conservation Manager: $50,000 - $90,000 per year
- Botanical Garden Curator: $50,000 - $100,000 per year
- Biotechnology Lab Technician: $40,000 - $70,000 per year
- Agricultural Consultant: $60,000 - $80,000 per year
- Population Geneticist: $55,000 - $80,000 per year
- Plant physiologist or ecophysiologist: $55,000 - $70,000 per year
