Potential Career Paths for Sustainable Plant Systems Majors:

Ecologist: Study the interrelationships between organisms and their environments through research about how creatures and habitats interact with each other and the environment.

Wildlife manager/technician: Inventory wildlife populations and collect samples of water, soil, and plants to evaluate the health of animals and habitats.

Horticulturist: Work in garden centers and greenhouses, advise growers on chemical-free methods of pest management, or consult landscape designers about ecologically sustainable grounds and practices.

Microbiologist: Work for government agencies, universities, agricultural companies, food safety organizations and research institutes to study microorganisms that live in the soil and their effects on the environment.

Soil and plant scientist: Study the physical and chemical properties of soil as well as the distribution, origin, and history of soils and the species that comprise them.

Forester: Manage vegetation, timber, reforestation and fuels for the government and companies involved with wood product production.

Agronomist: Expertly manage soil and field crop production, conduct research, and develop new crop hybrids and varieties for the public and private sectors.

Botanist: Study plants and their environment and support their identification and classification.

Research assistant: Conduct research for food, pharmaceutical, and pest management organizations.

Science teacher: Develop and teach science curriculum and guide the next generation through experiments and field experiences that advance understanding of the natural world.

Naturalist: Research and develop educational programming for national and state parks.

Plant geneticist: Research and work to isolate genes to develop certain plant traits. Jobs available in the public and private sectors.

Conservationist: Manage the use and development of forests and other natural resources.

Education and advocacy: Educate decision-makers and communities about the importance of plants and thoughtful stewardship of the world’s natural resources.

Advanced degree: Deepen your understanding and expand your career options through graduate school that may lead to leadership positions in research and field settings.

Connect with an Advisor to Plan Your Future

Our experienced advisors will:

• Listen and learn about you, your interests and goals.
• Help you to explore and refine your career interests and prepare for a career aligned with your interests.
• Identify ways to gain the knowledge, experience and skills you need to land a job.
• Work with you every step of the way to ensure you graduate on time.
• Assist you as you plan your next steps after graduation.

Our advisors are here to guide and support you, from selecting a graduate program or employer to completing your resume and applications.

CALS Career Center

It’s OK to not know what you want to do for the rest of your life. In fact, we expect it. This is an important part of your education—learning where there is a need, and preparing for a career that addresses that need. We are here to help you explore career paths as you learn more about yourself and what professions best align with your talents and gifts.

Our supportive advisors and the friendly staff at the Career Center will help you:

• Find experiences working in faculty research settings.
• Identify and set up internships.
• Prepare your resume, cover letter, and portfolio.
• Practice for interviews.

Gain confidence and discover your passionate purpose through our range of one-on-one, online, and group services and information.

Create Lasting Professional Bonds

Many of our majors are actively involved in UA clubs as well as the following professional societies, which offer information about careers and job listings:

• American Society of Horticultural Science
• American Society of Agronomy
• American Public Garden Association
• American Phytopathological Society