How to Become a Botanist

Plant life has fascinated many people for many years because plants are an essential part of nature providing food and medicine. Without plants, most life on Earth would ultimately cease to exist. Individuals curious about plant life may pursue the study of botany. A degree, experience and interest in nature are necessary to become a botanist.

Local bookstores and libraries have resources on which colleges and universities offer botany degree programs in the United States and abroad. Be sure to seek out scholarship opportunities from organizations especially those groups that support the study of botany. Botanists typically hold a Bachelor of Science degree in botany with an area of concentration.

Most botany programs require biology coursework in general, cell, genetics, ecology, physiology, phycology, mycology, and pathology. Elective classes in chemistry, physics and/or mathematics are taken once a concentration is declared. Learners can expect to work outside doing fieldwork, submerged in water studying aquatic plants and in a lab. Students will explore different systems of cells at the molecular level, inherited characteristics at the genetic level and chemical processes at the biochemistry level. Science clubs and internships offer additional experiences related to the study of plant life.

Scientists with a BS in botany are found working as interpretative naturalists for parks, environmental reclamation technicians for corporations or lab technicians for research facilities. Obtaining a master's degree affords career opportunities in consulting for environmental groups, gardens and farms. A doctorate is necessary for teaching at a university or conducting independent research for either the government or a biotechnology firm.

According to the Botanical Society of America, individuals with degrees in botany outnumber current job openings. A candidate specializing in agronomy or biotechnology is more likely to find employment. Agronomists figure out how to use plants not only for food but also for fuel, animal feed and textiles. Biotechnologists genetically engineer agricultural crops or work with ingredients to produce medicine. There is quite a salary spread amongst botanists because someone working at a state park makes considerably less than someone working for a pharmaceutical company, but the range is generally between $33,000 and $142,000 a year.

Deciding on which educational and career path to take requires a botanist to adopt a philosophy on nature. Botanists tend to fall into one of two categories, people who want to preserve nature and people who want to use nature to support new developments. Either way, a botanist should recognize that plants are essential to cycles in nature and nature is vital for human life to continue.