Plant science, like plant biology or phytology, is more commonly known as botany. Its a branch within biology that studies plants. This includes their structure, properties and biochemical processes. This herb field of study also focuses on plant diseases and interactions with the environment which provides a foundation for applied sciences like agriculture, horticulture and forestry.

According to the US of Bureau Labour Statistics, the positions for soil and plant scientists are set to increase at a rate of eight to 10% which would add 6,700 jobs by 2022. With the progression of the clean energy economy, the field of botany lies on the cutting edge and is also a great profession for nature enthusiasts.

What can you work as? One job in popular demand is a plant ecologist. They help conserve endangered species and natural areas. For instance, the Rafflesia flower (the largest on the planet) that has pungent odors of decomposing flesh can be found in the forests of Borneo and Sumatra. Its also on the brink of extinction and the only way to save it, is to preserve its natural habitat. Below we take a look at the whatnots of getting a degree in botany and what jobs you can expect from it:

You must demonstrate a broad general education especially in literacy and numeracy with a minimum of a 4 in your GCSE or IGCSE. Practical skills are a must in science education and therefore youll need to pass any science A-Level taken. Usually, this includes grades AAA-ABB (two in biology), chemistry, physics and maths.

Britains Royal Botanic Gardens warned on May 10 about the threats facing the worlds plant kingdom in the first global report of its kind aimed at drawing attention to often-overlooked species. Source: Daniel Leal-Olivas/AFP

If youre submitting your International Baccalaureate, a minimum of 36-33 points is needed (including two higher level science subjects). To add to that, you must show your English Language proficiency in your GCSE/IGCSE grades or an IELTS (or equivalent) with no less than 6.5.

The undergraduate programmes in botany focuses on the growth, development, and productivity of plants. Youll be learning how to apply concepts from a wide range of biological subjects to plant science. This includes genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry and cell biology.

Depending on what institution you choose, the majority that offer this course usually have a combination of seminars and interactive events. To further add, youll most likely be getting hands-on experience in field studies where you can properly study plant environments.

A picture shows containers of Chanel creams made from camellia flowers at the Chanel fashion house camellia farm in Gaujac. Chanel uses camellias to create cosmetic products, notably creams, for the exceptional moisturising properties it can produce.Source: Gaizka Iroz/AFP

An obvious job would land you the role of a botanist whose average pay a year sums up to US$78,552. Your role would have you studying the many aspects of plants and conducting experiments to enhance the yield, disease resistance, drought resistance or the nutritional value of crops.

A biological scientist studies the living organisms and their relationship to the environment through basic and applied research. You could be doing this and earning an average of US$52,601 a year.

What about landscape design? This would be you making practical and alternative spaces that are beneficial for our health, wellbeing, and most of all protecting the environment. This could make you up to US$55,000 a year.

Excerpt from:
Botany: 3 things you need to know about getting this degree - Study International News