Note: MSU's programs in the biological sciences are distributed across multiple departments. MSU does not have a single Department of Biology. For additional options see Biological Sciences at MSU.
Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology
Plant Science involves a thorough background in the liberal arts and a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles underlying plant sciences. Plant systems are the fundamental basis for life on earth and are also a major contributor to the economy. Modern plant science encompasses many areas, impacting such diverse interests as agriculture, biotechnology, and recreational land management.
Faculty members who advise students and teach courses are also active researchers in their respective disciplines. Students learn current knowledge and technology through formal course work and gain valuable first hand experience in departmental laboratories, greenhouses, and field research farms. Students are encouraged to gain additional learning experiences outside the classroom by working as research assistants in faculty programs, summer jobs, and internships with private industry and government agencies.
Each student works closely with a faculty advisor to formulate a program of study that is appropriate with the student's career goals and also fits into either the Crop Science or Plant Biology options.
Crop Science Option
Continued increases in food and fiber crop production are essential for the future of humankind. Yet increased production places increased pressure on our soil, water, and other finite resources. The challenge for crop scientists is to implement crop and soil management schemes that maintain and increase production, but at the same time conserve our soil and water resources and preserve the delicate balance in the agroecosystem.
Course requirements in the Crop Science option are designed to acquaint students with the principles underlying crop and soil management. Thus soil fertility, plant physiology, crop production, crop breeding, and pest management, along with courses in the biological and physical sciences are included in this area of study.
Graduates from this option find careers in farming and ranching; as crop production specialists; in pest management; in seed, fertilizer, and chemical industries; with banks and other lending institutions; Cooperative Extension Service and with a government agency such as the Natural Resource Conservation Service.
Plant Biology Option
Plant biology provides a broad education in the plant sciences. The expertise of the Plant Sciences faculty provides an opportunity to focus at the cellular and molecular level, but opportunities also exist for emphasis in plant ecology and systematics. Course requirements include beginning and advanced courses in biology, microbiology, biochemistry, physiology, genetics, plant development, ecology, and systematics.
Graduates are prepared for post-graduate school, and academic and professional careers.