Protect your career in the growing field of plant science and botany
With the need for sustainable practices and environmental conservation, the importance of plant science and botany is expanding. These fields are increasingly interdisciplinary, providing the opportunity to work in other disciplines such as ecology, genetics and agriculture. Plant science and botany graduates who are knowledgeable, technically proficient and adaptable will be set to succeed in dynamic, varied career opportunities.
Our faculty members are leading experts in their respective fields, engaged in cutting-edge research and passionate about teaching. With their guidance, you'll deepen your understanding of plant physiology, genetics, ecology and other related subjects. This knowledge will prepare you for opportunities within industries such as agriculture, horticulture, biotechnology, conservation and more.
UNE offers the option of studying online or on-campus, providing you with flexibility and choice. Online students can connect with other professionals to build networks for the future, while on campus students can access campus accommodation, sports facilities and support services. Both modes of learning are available on a full-time or part-time basis, with three trimesters per year.
Studying plant science and botany with UNE will provide you with the skills necessary to excel in the constantly evolving field of flora. Regardless of which industry you plan to work in, our offerings will prepare you for success. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.
Discover the plant science and botany offerings available at UNE now.
Courses by study level
With UNE's Bachelor of Agriculture, you will gain practical, production-oriented, specialist skills. You will have the paddock-ready skills and knowledge to solve problems and adapt to future challenges as a professional. Choose a major from one of three production-based options — animal, plant, and mixed farming — to gain a specialisation allowing you to enter the agricultural industry with expert knowledge and a technical skillset in the productive management of agriculutral landscapes.
With a Bachelor of Agriculture from UNE you will be well positioned to gain employment across a range of agricultural industries, and fit for the future.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
With UNE's Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business you will gain practical, production-oriented skills and knowledge in agriculture together with in-depth skills and knowledge in business, management and finance. You will learn to formulate strategies and become an informed decision maker who can communicate effectively in this rapidly evolving industry.
Our combined degree enables you to specialise by studying one of four business majors to complement the paddock-ready skills you gain from the Bachelor of Agriculture component. Depending on your business major, you may also focus your agriculture studies by choosing one of six agriculture minors. You will be well positioned for career success with the expertise to adapt to a changing world.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
Anticipate and respond to the demands of agricultural industries and businesses in a changing global environment and gain a broad range of in-demand legal skills with the UNE Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws. In this double degree you will benefit from UNE’s unique position in regional Australia, with the flexibility to build your capabilities in areas that interest you most. With your acquired legal and agricultural knowledge, advanced research skills and technical skillset, you will graduate with broad knowledge and specialist skills for greater career flexibility.
- 5 years full-time
- Up to 12 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Do you dream of a career where you’re helping to address the big issues facing humanity? Or perhaps you crave the excitement of being at the forefront of scientific discovery? Maybe you wish to instil your passion for the environment into future generations? Our Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science is uniquely positioned to help you reach your goals, with wide-spanning knowledge and a diverse set of skills to be adaptable in a rapidly changing world. This combined degree will help lay the foundation for you to acquire the ability to innovate and problem-solve — attributes that are in demand more than ever by employers in Australia and internationally.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
The environmental problems that we face in a rapidly changing world require solutions developed by skilled scientists and innovators. UNE's Bachelor of Environmental Science gives you a broad foundation in the theories and practice that underpin a multidisciplinary career working to solve environmental issues on regional, national and global environmental scales.
With a range of majors and interdisciplinary minors covering the breadth of environmental science, you will find a program of study that suits you. Access state-of-the-art facilities in our interactive learning environment both on-campus and online, allowing you to tailor your study.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
The world requires skilled scientists and innovators to develop the solutions to the complex environmental problems facing a rapidly changing planet. Combined with a contemporary understanding of the theory and practice of law, the UNE Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws will open the door to a wide range of evolving career opportunities. Our double degree provides you with a professionally accredited law degree with a comprehensive grounding in regional, national and global environmental science and natural resource issues. You will graduate with broad knowledge and technical skills to apply to a wide range of professions, and benefit from UNE’s specialist regional, rural and remote perspective in both fields.
- 5 years full-time
- Up to 12 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
With UNE's Bachelor of Rural Science, you will graduate at the forefront of the agricultural industry ready to solve complex problems in agricultural systems across enterprises, landscapes and the globe. You will have the paddock-ready scientific skills to adapt to future challenges as a professional, and you will gain an understanding of the sustainability of the whole agricultural system from the biophysical (soils, plants and animal production) including environmental, social and economic principles.
You will be fit for the future and well positioned to become a leader in a range of industry contexts from farm management, the corporate world and scientific research.
- 4 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Constant technological disruption and new discoveries in science influence every aspect of our lives, meaning that there has never been a better time than now to safeguard your future career with scientific knowledge and practical skills. With 20 majors to choose from, UNE’s Bachelor of Science is flexibly delivered by experts in research and teaching. Tailor your degree towards generalist or specialist science, while developing a broad scientific base and refining your abilities in critical analysis and complex problem solving. Our majors span the pure and applied sciences, with specialisation available in traditional disciplines and emerging fields.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
Studying the Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws at UNE will equip you with an extensive portfolio of knowledge and skills to future proof your career. In this comprehensive program of study, you will develop contemporary skills in how to write for, research, argue and apply the law, as well as explore a full breadth of contemporary science topics and issues. You will graduate with knowledge and skills to apply to a wide range of professions, benefitting from UNE's regional, rural and remote expertise in both fields to ensure you are ready to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
- 5 years full-time
- Up to 12 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
In a rapidly changing world, there has never been a better time to expand your understanding of science and technology. UNE’s Bachelor of Scientific Studies is designed to provide you with broad scientific background to assist with future employment or to pursue further study. It is also a pathway to transition to a specialised science-based degree if you do not have an educational background in science. Our course encourages the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as skills for communication and lifelong learning, allowing you to apply these skills to your specific field of interest.
With an adaptable skill set you will be ready to respond to the challenges and opportunities in any career.
- 3 years full-time
- 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Enter the agricultural industry with a one-year academic qualification or refresh your knowledge with UNE’s Diploma in Agricultural Studies. By studying our course online or on campus, you will gain a formal tertiary-level qualification with a basic understanding of the science of agriculture, without having to commit to a full degree program.
Whether you wish to undertake a refresher course or start on a pathway to a bachelor's degree, our course will equip you with the understanding of agriculture to take advantage of opportunities in the rural sector.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Are you interested in studying science and want to explore the topics that interest you? UNE’s Diploma in Science is ideal if you are new to university study and want to get started in science, or if you wish to develop a foundation of skills and knowledge across a broad range of scientific disciplines to supplement your study in another field or add value to your role. Our course is designed to provide you with maximum flexibility, allowing you to tailor your program of study to your individual needs, with guidance and support from our experienced academic staff.
Choose from units across a wide range of scientific disciplines or focus on a specific subject area, and equip yourself with the tools you will need to pursue further study or pivot in your career and thrive in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
This course is not offered in Trimester 2 or Trimester 3 2024.
Cotton is the most widespread profitable non-food crop in the world. The Australian cotton industry provides employment for thousands of people industry wide. But how do we ensure the production, protection, systems and environmental management of cotton crops in the Australian industry are not just profitable, but also sustainable?
The Undergraduate Certificate in Cotton Production will provide you with a wide range of foundational skills in this rapidly evolving field.
Whether you want to experience a taste for university studies, or you're currently working in the field and want to gain tertiary qualifications to boost your skills, this course is the ideal starting point.
The units neatly combine to form a sought-after qualification or a pathway towards a series of agriculturally oriented degrees, diplomas and masters’ awards at UNE.
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Online
This course is not offered in Trimester 3, 2024. We encourage you to explore our Diploma in Science as an alternative.
The study of Life and Earth Studies is diverse and multidisciplinary, involving science, geology, ecology, biology, chemistry, evolution and more.
Students at UNE are part of a rich history of life and earth science education in Australia, and benefit from the unique landscape that preserves half a billion years of history.
Our Undergraduate Certificate in Life and Earth Studies equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills to ensure you’re ready for placement in the industry or further study in the field.
- 1 year part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Contribute to world class research by completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours at UNE. Position yourself with advanced scientific knowledge in an era of rapid change. Our honours course goes beyond the normal practical and field training and provides you with a wide range of cross-disciplinary applied research opportunities to foster your development as a skill research professional.
We offer a range of majors spanning the pure and applied sciences, working with UNE's internationally recognised research disciplines. Our flexible, innovative learning environment equips you with advanced discipline knowledge and skills in critical thinking, data analysis and problem-solving to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
- 1 year full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
With UNE's Graduate Certificate in Agriculture, you can expand your professional skills and gain a specialisation in a specific area of agriculture or develop your fundamental knowledge of agricultural science. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Agriculture is an opportunity to fast-track your career via a range of coursework programs designed to develop your expertise. You'll be able to choose your specialist area from options that include general agricultural production, precision agriculture, cotton production, agricultural consulting, sustainable agriculture, sheep and wool science, genetics, soil science, and animal health and nutrition.
Open doors to employment options in this rapidly changing industry and future fit your career.
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- On Campus
- Online
Environmental factors play an increasing role in decision making in many fields. The ability to take these factors into account and improve the productivity and sustainability of environmental systems to meet the current and future needs of communities and industry is in demand in the workplace. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science gives you a foundation in environmental science, allowing you to upskill and expand your knowledge, whether you wish to pivot in your career or add value to your role.
With future-proofed skills and an in-depth understanding of environmental problems and their management, you will be better placed to anticipate and respond to the challenges we're facing in a rapidly changing world.
- 0.5 or 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
Adapt to an evolving workplace and open the door to new career opportunities with UNE's Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice. Whether you want to create more career choices, hone your specialist skills, or take a new career direction, we will work with you to customise a course to match your skills and aspirations.
Choose from a full breadth of subjects. Avoid getting bogged down in a lengthy, traditional course, and instead, play to your natural strengths, refine your skills and draw on your experience to prepare for the future. And do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor with 1:1 guidance from start to finish.
- 0.5 years full-time
- 2 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Design a bespoke course and prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace with the UNE Graduate Diploma in Professional Practice. Whether you want to advance your career, hone your skills or embark on a new career direction, we'll work with you to design a course to match your skills and aspirations. You will have the freedom to assemble your course from a full breadth of subjects, play to your strengths and draw from your experience to achieve your goals. Learn in a way that suits your timeframe and do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor — with one-on-one guidance from start to finish. You'll be paving your pathway to the next stage of your career.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
Upgrade your skills and develop your expertise with science-based agricultural studies through UNE's Master of Science in Agriculture. Our flexible program of specialist coursework allows you to steer your studied towards your interests and shape the direction of your career within the agricultural industry. We offer a range of specialisations, including animal science, meat science, genetics and animal breeding, and agronomy and soil science.
Choose from a wide range of units, covering all aspects of the agricultural industry and receive a comprehensive introduction to research skills and research methodology. You can also undertake a research project supervised by our world-class researchers.
UNE is a leading innovator in teaching and research in the agricultural sciences. Your advanced knowledge and skillset will prepare you for high-level work in this rapidly evolving industry.
- 1 or 1.5 or 2 years full-time
- Up to 6 years part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- On Campus
- Online
A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession.
When you complete your PhD at UNE, you will be recognised as an expert in your area of study. Your original discoveries and innovations will be applied to benefit society and industry in Australia and worldwide.
- 4 years full-time
- 8 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
High quality research and analysis allows us to better understand the complex issues we face in industry and society. With UNE's Master of Philosophy by research, your original findings and insights will add to the body of knowledge and inform decision-making in your specialist area.
You will work independently, with personalised support from recognised experts in your area of study every step of the way. Expand your expertise, hone your research skills, and immediately apply your knowledge in a research topic of your choice.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
Upgrade your knowledge and skills or pivot your career by developing expertise in sustainable, science-based agricultural systems of production through UNE's Master of Rural Science. This postgraduate degree offers a supportive program of independent research related to practical and sustainable production of food and fibre.
UNE is a leading innovator in teaching and research in the agricultural sciences. Your advanced knowledge and skillset will prepare you for high-level work in this rapidly evolving industry.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
Understanding and discovery in science drives advancement, providing solutions to the world's health, environmental, agricultural and technological challenges. UNE's Master of Science allows you to study flexibly, to gain expertise and research training, and to contribute to current scientific knowledge. You will be supervised by internationally-recognised scientists and with opportunities to immerse yourself in UNE's vibrant research culture and access to our world-class facilities, develop your skills as a research professional.
- 2 years full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- Research Period 1
- Research Period 2
- On Campus
- Online
If you are enrolled at another university, you can choose to study subjects at UNE that will count towards your course. Apply as a cross institutional student directly and complete one or several individual subjects (units) from the full scope of UNE's discipline areas.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
The world is full of possibilities, with so much to discover and learn. There are endless opportunities to enrich your knowledge to prepare for the future, but what if you don’t want to undertake a full degree? And how can you zero-in on the subjects that matter most to you? That’s what a Non-Award with UNE will help you to achieve.
Studying a Non-Award means you can learn without the need to complete entire course requirements or take on a full course load. Whether it’s a language you want to learn, a business unit to enhance your career, an improvement of your IT skills, an update on education principles or developing your management style, Non-Award study gives you the flexibility and control to explore what matters to you.
- 1 trimester full-time
- 1 trimester part-time
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 2
- Trimester 3
- Online
- On Campus
- Bespoke Graduate Certificate: design your own 4 unit postgraduate course and have your work experience recognised in the process.
- ‘Fundamental’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four fundamental units from a traditional degree. If you are planning a new direction, or adding a new set of skills to your portfolio, you may want to start with this option. These units provide a foundation, or a ‘base camp’, to return to if you want to later progress to a full degree.
- ‘Advanced’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four advanced units from a full degree. This is a great strategy for staying current in your field, or advancing your knowledge.
- ‘Critical Content’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four units from any of the available units in a degree to create a Critical Content Bespoke Course. This option lets you get the knowledge you need without the time and cost of a full degree.
- ‘Mix and Match’ Bespoke Course: combine two, three or four units from different degrees and disciplines to design your mix and match Bespoke Course. This option lets you diversify your knowledge.
What our students say
![Bachelor of Science (Genetics) student Dominic Waters completes fun run beneath canopy of hands](https://d1dkx4rtpm18tu.cloudfront.net/file/1572608410/63307576195/width=-1/height=-1/format=-1/fit=scale/t=444558/e=never/k=28ae49d9/Dominic-Waters-2.jpg)
As I progressed through university, I found that I enjoyed statistics and genetics. UNE happens to be very strong in both of these areas, so it was a good fit.
Dominic Waters, Bachelor of Science (Genetics) studentFind the right major or specialisation for your studies in Plant Science and Botany
In a changing climate, plant science and botany professionals are in high demand. Access UNE's world-class facilities and learn from experienced academics who will provide you with practical knowledge in areas such as plant genetics, ecology, conservation and physiology. Explore your options now.
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Benefit from UNE's expert botanists and develop the critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills to secure your role in the rapidly changing world of scientific research; a field set to see vast changes as technology advances and…
Benefit from UNE's expert botanists and develop the critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills to secure your role in the rapidly changing world of scientific research; a field set to see vast changes as technology advances and the climate crisis continues.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Environmental Science | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Zoology | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science with Honours | Major | Bachelor Honours |
Master of Scientific Studies | Major | Postgraduate |
Graduate Diploma in Science | Major | Postgraduate |
Graduate Certificate in Science | Major | Postgraduate |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Environmental scientists are highly sought after to develop strategies for growing issues such as climate change and depletion of natural resources. Learn from UNE's industry experts and build your research, critical analysis, collaboration and…
Environmental scientists are highly sought after to develop strategies for growing issues such as climate change and depletion of natural resources. Learn from UNE's industry experts and build your research, critical analysis, collaboration and communication skills.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Environmental Science | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Science with Honours | Major | Bachelor Honours |
Master of Environmental Science and Management | Specialist Course | Postgraduate |
Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science | Specialist Course | Postgraduate |
Undergraduate Certificate in Environmental Studies | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
Undergraduate Certificate in Life and Earth Studies | Specialist Course | Undergraduate |
Master of Environmental Science (Research) | Specialist Course | Postgraduate Research |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
Benefit from UNE's established reputation in agriculture and rural sciences and future-fit yourself with a diversified skillset in evidence-based farming techniques. Protect your role in a field that is forecast to see changes in precision…
Benefit from UNE's established reputation in agriculture and rural sciences and future-fit yourself with a diversified skillset in evidence-based farming techniques. Protect your role in a field that is forecast to see changes in precision agriculture, biotech, organic and sustainable farming.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Agriculture | Major | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Agriculture | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Business | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws | Minor | Undergraduate |
Bachelor of Rural Science | Minor | Undergraduate |
- Undergraduate
- Bachelor Honours
- Postgraduate
- Major
- Minor
- Specialisation
- Teaching Area
- Specialist Course
In a rapidly changing global environment, studying vegetation, landscapes and delicate ecosystems is critical. Using UNE’s advanced laboratories and technology, develop the skills to understand the natural world so you are future-fit for a…
In a rapidly changing global environment, studying vegetation, landscapes and delicate ecosystems is critical. Using UNE’s advanced laboratories and technology, develop the skills to understand the natural world so you are future-fit for a sustainable career that contributes to science.
Courses | Type | Level of Study |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Environmental Science | Major | Undergraduate |
- 1
Why study with us?
Australian Universities
Public NSW Universities
NSW Universities
Careers in Plant Science and Botany
As the importance of sustainable practices and environmental stewardship increases, the demand for professionals with expertise in plant science and botany is on the rise. UNE will help you to develop the skillset needed to secure positions in fields such as agriculture, horticulture, environmental management, conservation and biotechnology, among others.
- Botanist
Research plant genetics, morphology, physiology and ecology and develop new applications for plant-based products. - Plant biotechnologist
Conduct research and develop new methods to improve plant growth, yield and resistance to diseases and pests. - Horticulturist
Cultivate and manage gardens, parks, and other outdoor spaces. - Plant ecologist
Study plant populations, communities and ecosystems, and their relationships with other organisms and the environment. - Plant breeder
Develop new plant varieties with desired traits, such as improved yield, disease resistance or nutritional value. - Agronomist
Develop and implement strategies for sustainable crop management, including crop selection, soil management and pest control. - Land rehabilitation specialist
Restore and rehabilitate degraded land, using native plant species to improve soil health and prevent erosion. - Plant pathologist
Study the causes and effects of plant diseases and develop methods for their control and prevention.
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience SurveyFive Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024Browse other disciplines within Sciences
What happens next?
Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our Future Student team is standing by to help.
2024 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.