Undergraduate Studies

Are you interested in the outdoors, science, sports, being creative, or healthy living?

Undergraduate students in the Department of Plant Sciences are part of the Herbert College of Agriculture. Learn about admissions, scheduling a virtual, taking a self-guided tour, scholarships, and Herbert student life.

Welcome! We are very happy that you have chosen to pursue your degree with Plant Sciences and we look forward to working with you over the next few years. I am confident that most of you will be able to look back on this experience as one of the more enjoyable and exciting times of your life.

Please do not hesitate to contact your advisor, a faculty member, Undergraduate Coordinator Andy Pulte, Administrative Assistant for Student Records Sandy Kitts, or me if you have any questions, need guidance, or have suggestions. We welcome input on ways to strengthen this experience for future students. I have an open door policy. My office is in Room 358 Plant Biotechnology Building.

Sincerely,

Scott Senseman

Professor and Department Head

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Explore Our Concentrations

Upon choosing the Plant Sciences major, undergraduate students are required to select a concentration. This specialized set of classes is designed to help you gain knowledge toward your desired career path. Students who successfully complete prescribed coursework will receive a Bachelor of Science in Plant Sciences.

a jumbled group of bright orange pumpkins in the sunlight
Horticulture Science and Production
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Horticulture Science and Production
Large white Magnolia blooms hang in the sun
Public Horticulture
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Public Horticulture
Seedlings sprout from dark soil
Organic Production
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Organic Production
a wide clear straight riverbed meanders along a trees with autumnal orange leaves
Sustainable Landscape Design
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Sustainable Landscape Design
green plant matter sits in a Petri dish on a white countertop
Plant Genetics and Biotechnology
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Plant Genetics and Biotechnology
A lone soccer ball sits on a natural turf field
Turfgrass Science and Management
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Turfgrass Science and Management

A Plant Sciences minor complements many majors.

Plant Sciences strives to make special connections with our students. Faculty advisors assist undergraduates choosing curriculum, including departmental courses, electives, and a minor. These professors mentor students applying to undergraduate research positions, paid internships, and study abroad opportunities. Establishing personal relationships and tailoring coursework prepares you for the career of your choice.

UPCOMING EVENTS
The Herbert Ambassadors, a group of diverse students who lead campus activities, pose in matching grey polos in front of a barn
Visit with us to meet a Herbert Ambassador and Plant Sciences representative.

Meet downtown Knoxville, which is easy to get to from campus.


Professional Development

Students have the option of including undergraduate research and Extension work, a minor, and paid internship into their coursework. Participating in these and other opportunities get you hired.

Leaving an undergraduate career with experience in state of the art research facilities sets you apart in the workforce.

Extension gives you the opportunity to assist agents, contribute to publications, and interact with the public.

Minors are useful gaining knowledge in diverse areas that make you more marketable when searching for employment.

Clubs and other extracurriculars are resume builders and outlets to expand and hone your professional skills.

A student poses with a sign that says, "# UTK Plant Drop," for the event that gave thousands of free plants away.

Join the UT Plant Sciences Club to connect with a range of students that have a uniting interest— plants. Check them out on Instagram, and participate in events like the #UTKPlantDrop.

UT Plant Science Club members pose with their display at a UT Herbert event.
Are you interested in earning credit while exploring Plant Sciences internationally?

Student Resources