Plant Sciences, B.S.

Program Code: PLANT_BS

Program Description

The Plant Sciences Major is an applied biological science program designed for students seeking careers in agronomic and horticultural crop production systems and enterprise management, agroecology, sustainable and organic managed and natural ecosystems, crop protection, applied plant physiology, plant science research, and plant biotechnology. Students will secure:

  1. a working knowledge of basic plant biology, soils, pests, and pathogens with emphasis on growth, development, and physiology in an ecological and agricultural context,
  2. the scientific, technical, and computational approaches to problem solving in an ecological and agricultural context, individually and in teams,
  3. the ability to analyze ethical issues regarding ecosystem sustainability, business practices and plant science, and critically evaluate and respect different viewpoints in making management decisions, and
  4. a high level of proficiency in written and oral communication, particularly with regard to critical evaluation of scientific issues.

There are five options in the major, providing flexibility for concentrations in areas including production and management systems related to agronomic and horticultural crops, plant biotechnology and breeding, crop physiology, ecology, agroecology, and other aspects of general plant science. Students can choose from diverse course offerings in designing a program of study suited to their needs and professional goals.

Agroecology Option

This option applies an ecological approach to understanding and managing cropping systems to meet societies' needs while enhancing environmental protection and resource conservation. Students will develop skills to manage agroecosystems for sustainable productivity, profitability and environmental protection by studying plant and soil sciences, ecology, and pest management from a systems perspective. The curriculum prepares students for a wide range of careers in agricultural and ecological fields, sustainable food production, and for graduate studies.

Crop Production Option

This option provides students with practical and field-related skills in Agronomy (field crop production and soil management). Students will focus on techniques and knowledge necessary to efficiently and economically manage soils, crops and other farm resources with additional emphasis on pest management and commodity marketing. Courses stress the skills and information needed to work with current production technologies such as seed traits, crop protection chemicals, and fertilizers to improve yield and productivity.

Horticulture Option

This option prepares students to enter the horticultural industry by providing a broad background in courses related to production and physiology of horticultural crops. Additional courses in pest management and business are required. Graduates may work as orchard, greenhouse, garden center, nursery or farm managers, with horticultural and landscape service providers, suppliers, and brokers, with cooperative extension and other government and non-governmental agencies and public and private gardens, or continue with graduate studies.

Plant Genetics and Biotechnology Option

This option is a combination of basic science and technology-based classes designed for students who are seeking careers in agricultural sciences, plant breeding, plant molecular genetics and plant biotechnology based industries. It provides students with maximum flexibility in selecting a program of study suited to their needs and to achieve professional goals related to advanced degrees or immediate job placement in the industry. The option provides theoretical and practical skills of plant genetic manipulation relevant to plant biotechnology, plant breeding and genome research.

Plant Science Option

This option emphasizes the application of the biological sciences to problem-solving in agronomic and horticultural ecosystems. Topic areas include plant biology, plant pathology, plant microbiology, plant biotechnology, plant-insect interactions, horticulture, crop science, plant ecology, and bioenergy. Graduates may find employment in industry, government and academic research programs as technicians and research assistants, or pursue graduate degrees.

What is Plant Sciences?

Plant Science is the study of plant growth, development and physiology that focuses on the production, use, improvement, management and protection of plants and plant-based products. Plant Scientists seek ways to improve the yield and quality of agronomic and horticultural crops for food, fiber, fuel and ornamental purposes.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PLANT SCIENCES

You Might Like this Program If...

  • You enjoy hands-on learning in labs, greenhouses, and in the field. Our teaching and learning facilities include more than 30,000 square feet of greenhouse space, more than 700 acres of research and teaching farms, a one-acre student farm, and a hydroponics and aquaponics system.
  • You have an interest in sustainable and conventional food, fuel, and fiber production systems

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WHY STUDENTS CHOOSE TO STUDY PLANT SCIENCES

Entrance to Major

In order to be eligible for entrance to this major, a student must:

  1. attain at least a C (2.00) cumulative grade-point average for all courses taken at the University; and
  2. have at least third-semester classification.

READ SENATE POLICY 37-30: ENTRANCE TO AND CHANGES IN MAJOR PROGRAMS OF STUDY

Degree Requirements

For the Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Sciences, a minimum of 120 credits are required:

Requirement Credits
General Education 45
Electives 0-13
Requirements for the Major 83-102

21-24 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This includes: 9 credits of GN courses; 6 credits of GQ courses; 3 credits of GS courses and 3 credits of GWS courses; plus 3 GH in Crop Production.

Requirements for the Major

To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn a grade of C or better in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.

Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)

Prescribed Courses
BIOL 110Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity Keystone/General Education Course4
CHEM 110Chemical Principles I Keystone/General Education Course3
CHEM 111Experimental Chemistry I Keystone/General Education Course1
ENT 313Introduction to Entomology2
PLANT 200Introduction to Agricultural Crop Growth, Form, and Function Keystone/General Education Course3
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
AGECO 457Principles of Integrated Pest Management3
PLANT 461Emerging Issues in Plant Sciences3
SOILS 101Introductory Soil Science Keystone/General Education Course3
Additional Courses
ENT 314Management of Insect Pests of Ornamentals1
or ENT 316 Field Crops Entomology
Select 3 credits from the following:3
Economic Principles of Agribusiness Decision Making Keystone/General Education Course
Principles of Economics Keystone/General Education Course
Introductory Microeconomic Analysis and Policy Keystone/General Education Course
Introductory Macroeconomic Analysis and Policy Keystone/General Education Course
Select 1 credit from the following:1
Agroecology Internship
Internship
Internship
Independent Studies
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
ENGL 202CEffective Writing: Technical Writing Keystone/General Education Course3
or ENGL 202D Effective Writing: Business Writing Keystone/General Education Course
Select 3-5 credits from the following:3-5
College Algebra With Analytic Geometry and Applications II Keystone/General Education Course
Plane Trigonometry and Applications of Trigonometry Keystone/General Education Course
Algebra, Trigonometry, and Analytic Geometry Keystone/General Education Course
Trigonometry and Analytic Geometry Keystone/General Education Course
Techniques of Calculus I Keystone/General Education Course
Techniques of Calculus II Keystone/General Education Course
Calculus With Analytic Geometry I Keystone/General Education Course
Calculus with Analytic Geometry II Keystone/General Education Course
Calculus and Biology II Keystone/General Education Course
Select 3-4 credits from the following:3-4
Elementary Statistics Keystone/General Education Course
Introduction to Biometry Keystone/General Education Course
Introduction to Biostatistics Keystone/General Education Course
Requirements for the Option
Select an option47-63

Requirements for the Option

Agroecology Option (57-58 credits)
Prescribed Courses
AGECO 295Agroecology Internship1
AGECO/AGRO 438Principles of Weed Management4
PPEM 405Microbe-Plant Interactions: Plant Disease and Biological Control3
SOILS 102Introductory Soil Science Laboratory1
SOILS 401Soil Composition and Physical Properties3
SOILS 402Soil Nutrient Behavior and Management3
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
AGECO 201Introductory Agroecology3
Additional Courses
BIOL 222Genetics3
or HORT 407 Plant Breeding
Select 3 credits from the following:3
Atmospheric Environment: Growing in the Wind Keystone/General Education Course
AGECO 134
Principles and Practices of Organic Agriculture Keystone/General Education Course
Principles of Agronomic Field Operations
Independent Studies
Select 3 credits from the following:3
Introduction into Ethics and Issues in Agriculture Keystone/General Education Course
Environment and Society in a Changing World Keystone/General Education Course
Nature and Environment Keystone/General Education Course
Ethics Keystone/General Education Course
Bioethics Keystone/General Education Course
Select 6 credits from the following:6
Forage Crop Management
Field Crop Management
Plant Propagation
Environmental Effects on Horticultural Crops
Small Fruit Culture
Deciduous Tree Fruits
Vegetable Crops
Nutrient Management in Agricultural Systems
Select 3-4 credits from the following:3-4
Physiology of Agricultural Crops
Post-Harvest Physiology
Soil Ecology
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
AGRO 28Principles of Crop Management3
or HORT 101 Horticultural Science Keystone/General Education Course
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
Select 18 credits of supporting courses in consultation with adviser18
Crop Production Option (58-60 credits)
Prescribed Courses
AGECO 295Agroecology Internship1
AGECO 429Crop Scouting2
AGECO/AGRO 438Principles of Weed Management4
AGRO 423Forage Crop Management3
AGRO 425Field Crop Management3
HORT 407Plant Breeding3
PPEM 405Microbe-Plant Interactions: Plant Disease and Biological Control3
SOILS 102Introductory Soil Science Laboratory1
SOILS 401Soil Composition and Physical Properties3
SOILS 402Soil Nutrient Behavior and Management3
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
AGECO 201Introductory Agroecology3
Additional Courses
AGECO 154Principles of Agronomic Field Operations2
or SOILS 403 Soil Morphology Practicum
Select 3 credits from the following:3
Introduction into Ethics and Issues in Agriculture Keystone/General Education Course
Nature and Environment Keystone/General Education Course
Ethics Keystone/General Education Course
Bioethics Keystone/General Education Course
Select 3 credits from the following:3
Economics of the Food System
Agribusiness Problem Solving Keystone/General Education Course
Introduction to Agricultural Business Management
Farm Planning and Financial Management
Select 3 credits from the following:3
Interpersonal Skills for Tomorrow's Leaders Keystone/General Education Course
Leadership Development for Small Groups
Foundations in Leadership Development
Leadership Practices: Power, Influences, and Impact
Select 3-4 credits from the following:3-4
Nutrient Management in Agricultural Systems
Animal Science
Mapping Our Changing World Keystone/General Education Course
Environmental Geographic Information Systems
Select 3-4 credits from the following:3-4
Physiology of Agricultural Crops
Post-Harvest Physiology
Soil Ecology
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
AGRO 28Principles of Crop Management3
or HORT 101 Horticultural Science Keystone/General Education Course
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
Select 9 credits of supporting courses in consultation with adviser9
Horticulture Option (51-54 credits)
Prescribed Courses
HORT 232Horticultural Systematics3
HORT 402WPlant Nutrition3
HORT 407Plant Breeding3
HORT 445Plant Ecology3
HORT 455Retail Horticulture Business Management3
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
HORT 101Horticultural Science Keystone/General Education Course3
HORT 202Plant Propagation3
HORT 315Environmental Effects on Horticultural Crops3
HORT 412WPost-Harvest Physiology3
Additional Courses
AGRO 438Principles of Weed Management3-4
or HORT 238 Turf and Ornamental Weed Control
PPEM 300Horticultural Crop Diseases Keystone/General Education Course3
or PPEM 405 Microbe-Plant Interactions: Plant Disease and Biological Control
Select 3 credits from the following:3
Herbaceous Perennial and Annual Identification
Ornamental Plant Materials
Ornamental Plant Materials
Small Fruit Culture 1
Deciduous Tree Fruits 1
Vegetable Crops 1
Select 6-7 credits from the following:6-7
Landscape Plant Establishment and Maintenance
Small Fruit Culture
Deciduous Tree Fruits
Vegetable Crops
Flower Crop Production and Management
Select 9-10 credits from the following:9-10
AG 301
Introduction to Agricultural Business Management
Farm Planning and Financial Management
Finance
Marketing
Legal Environment of Business
Elementary Spanish I
Elementary Spanish II
Intermediate Spanish
Elementary Spanish I for Students in the Agricultural Sciences
1

Students cannot use the same course more than once as an additional course 

Plant Genetics and Biotechnology Option (56-63 credits)
Prescribed Courses
AGRO 410WPhysiology of Agricultural Crops4
AGRO/BIOTC 460Advances and Applications of Plant Biotechnology3
BIOL 222Genetics3
BMB 400Molecular Biology of the Gene2-3
CHEM 112Chemical Principles II Keystone/General Education Course3
CHEM 210Organic Chemistry I3
CHEM 212Organic Chemistry II3
HORT 407Plant Breeding3
HORT/BIOL/BIOTC 459Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology3
PHYS 250Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course4
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
PPEM 405Microbe-Plant Interactions: Plant Disease and Biological Control3
Additional Courses
AGRO 28Principles of Crop Management3
or HORT 101 Horticultural Science Keystone/General Education Course
CHEM 113Experimental Chemistry II Keystone/General Education Course1
or CHEM 113B Experimental Chemistry II--Bioscience Keystone/General Education Course
Select 4-6 credits from the following:4-6
Biology: Molecules and Cells
Biology: Function and Development of Organisms
Elementary Biochemistry
and Elementary Biochemistry Laboratory
Introductory Microbiology
and Introductory Microbiology Laboratory
Select 3-4 credits from the following:3-4
Taxonomy of Seed Plants
Evolution
Population Genetics
Population Ecology and Global Climate Change
Ecology of Plant Reproduction
Introduction to Population Dynamics
Plant Ecology
Biology of Fungi
Select 2-3 credits from the following:2-3
Practical Bioinformatics
Methods in Biofermentations
Special Topics
Current Issues in Biotechnology
Molecular Biology Laboratory
Select 3-4 credits from the following:3-4
Biology of Animal Parasites
Insect Structure and Function
Plant Virology: Molecules to Populations
Biology of Fungi
Select 3-4 credits from the following:3-4
Plant Developmental Anatomy
Seeds of Change: The Uses of Plants
Plant Physiology
Plant Nutrition
Post-Harvest Physiology
HORT 420
Ethics, Rigor, Reproducibility and Conduct of Research in the Life Sciences
Mechanisms of Bacterial Pathogenesis in Plants
Air Pollution Impacts to Terrestrial Ecosystems
Select 3 credits from the following:3
Forage Crop Management
Field Crop Management
Plant Propagation
Environmental Effects on Horticultural Crops
Small Fruit Culture
Deciduous Tree Fruits
Vegetable Crops
Nutrient Management in Agricultural Systems
Plant Science Option (47-53 credits)
Prescribed Courses
BIOL 222Genetics3
CHEM 112Chemical Principles II Keystone/General Education Course3
CHEM 210Organic Chemistry I3
CHEM 212Organic Chemistry II3
CHEM 213Laboratory in Organic Chemistry2
PHYS 250Introductory Physics I Keystone/General Education Course4
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
PPEM 405Microbe-Plant Interactions: Plant Disease and Biological Control3
Additional Courses
AGRO 28Principles of Crop Management3
or HORT 101 Horticultural Science Keystone/General Education Course
CHEM 113Experimental Chemistry II Keystone/General Education Course1
or CHEM 113B Experimental Chemistry II--Bioscience Keystone/General Education Course
Select 4-6 credits of the following:4-6
Elementary Biochemistry
and Elementary Biochemistry Laboratory
Biology: Molecules and Cells
Biology: Function and Development of Organisms
Introductory Microbiology
and Introductory Microbiology Laboratory
Molecular and Cell Biology I
Molecular and Cell Biology II
Select 3-4 credits of the following:3-4
Practical Bioinformatics 1
Biology of Animal Parasites
Insect Structure and Function
Plant Virology: Molecules to Populations
Mechanisms of Bacterial Pathogenesis in Plants 1
Biology of Fungi 1
Select 3-4 credits of the following:3-4
Ecology of Infectious Diseases
Taxonomy of Seed Plants
Evolution
Population Genetics
Population Ecology and Global Climate Change
Ecology of Plant Reproduction
Biology of Animal Parasites
Introduction to Population Dynamics
Plant Ecology
Biology of Fungi
Select 3 credits of the following:3
Advances and Applications of Plant Biotechnology
Practical Bioinformatics
Plant Breeding 1
Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology
Select 6-7 credits of the following:6-7
Physiology of Agricultural Crops
Advances and Applications of Plant Biotechnology
Plant Developmental Anatomy
Plant Physiology
Seeds of Change: The Uses of Plants
Plant Nutrition
Plant Breeding 1
Post-Harvest Physiology
HORT 420
Mechanisms of Bacterial Pathogenesis in Plants 1
Air Pollution Impacts to Terrestrial Ecosystems
Select 3-4 credits of the following:3-4
Physiology of Agricultural Crops
Post-Harvest Physiology
Soil Ecology
1

Students cannot use the same course more than once as an additional course

General Education

Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.

The keystone symbol Keystone/General Education Course appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.

Foundations (grade of C or better is required and Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)

  • Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
  • Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits

Breadth in the Knowledge Domains (Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)

  • Arts (GA): 3 credits
  • Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
  • Humanities (GH): 3 credits
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
  • Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits

Integrative Studies

  • Inter-Domain Courses (Inter-Domain): 6 credits

Exploration

  • GN, may be completed with Inter-Domain courses: 3 credits
  • GA, GH, GN, GS, Inter-Domain courses. This may include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the 12th credit level or the requirements for the student’s degree program, whichever is higher: 6 credits

University Degree Requirements

First Year Engagement

All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.

Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.

First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.

Cultures Requirement

6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements

  • United States Cultures: 3 credits
  • International Cultures: 3 credits

Writing Across the Curriculum

3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.

Total Minimum Credits

A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.

Quality of Work

Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.

Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition

The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.

Program Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to explain concepts in plant biology, soils, pests, and pathogens with emphasis on growth, development, and physiology.
  • Students will be able to choose scientific, technical, and computational approaches and solve problems in an ecological and agricultural context.
  • Students will be able to explain and analyze ethical issues in plant science regarding ecosystems, sustainability, and socioeconomic contexts, and evaluate and respect different viewpoints.
  • Students will be able to critically evaluate plant science issues through written and oral communication.

Academic Advising

The objectives of the university's academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.

Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.

READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY

University Park

Tarrah Geszvain
Academic Adviser
117 Tyson Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-6087
thg110@psu.edu

SUGGESTED ACADEMIC PLAN

The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2023-24 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition (Note: the archive only contains suggested academic plans beginning with the 2018-19 edition of the Undergraduate Bulletin).

AGROECOLOGY OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 1104CHEM 1103
AG 1502CHEM 1111
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3AGECO 2951
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5SOILS 101*†3
AGRO 28 or HORT 101*3SOILS 1021
 AGECO 201*3
 CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C‡†3
 15-17 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PLANT 2003ENT 3132
ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3ENT 314 or 3161
AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 1043SOILS 4023
STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†3-4General Education Course3
AGECO 122, AGECO 134, AGECO 144, AGECO 154, or AGECO 496 (Agroecology Selection)3AG 160, GEOG 30N, PHIL 13, PHIL 103, or PHIL 132 (Ethics Selection)3
 General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 15-16 13.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 457*3SOILS 4013
PPEM 4053AGRO 423, 425, HORT 202, HORT 315, HORT 431, HORT 432, HORT 433, or SOILS 418 (Production Selection)3
BIOL 222 or HORT 407 (Plant Breeding/Genetics Seletion)3Supporting Course3
AGRO 423, 425, HORT 202, HORT 315, HORT 431, HORT 432, HORT 433, or SOILS 418 (Production Selection)3Supporting Course3
Supporting Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 16.5 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 4384PLANT 461*3
AGECO 4951Supporting Course3
Supporting Course3Supporting Course3
AGRO 410W, HORT 412W, or SOILS 412W (Writing Across the Curriculum)3-4General Education Course3
General Education Course3Elective4
 14-15 16
Total Credits 120-124
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

CROP PRODUCTION OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 1104CHEM 1103
AG 1502CHEM 1111
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3AGECO 2951
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5SOILS 101*‡†3
AGRO 28 or HORT 101*3SOILS 1021
 AGECO 2013
 General Education Course3
 15-17 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PLANT 2003ENT 3132
ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3ENT 314 or 3161
AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 1043STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†4
AG 160, PHIL 13, PHIL 103, or PHIL 132 (Ethics Selection)3AEE 201, 360, 460, or 465 (Leadership Selection)3
CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C‡†3AGBM 102, 106, 200, or 407 (Business Selection)3
AGECO 154 (or Supporting Course)2General Education Course3
 17 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGRO 4233SOILS 4013
AGECO 4292SOILS 4023
AGECO 4384AGRO 4253
Supporting Course3AGRO 410W, HORT 412W, or SOILS 412W (Writing Across the Curriculum)3-4
General Education Course 3AGECO 418, ANSC 201, GEOG 160, or SOILS 450 (Special Interest Selection)3-4
 15 15-17
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 495 or AGRO 4961HORT 4073
AGECO 457*3PLANT 461*3
PPEM 4053General Education Course3
SOILS 403 (or Supporting Course)2General Education Course (GHW)1.5
Supporting Course3Elective4
Supporting Course3 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 16.5 14.5
Total Credits 124-128
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

HORTICULTURE OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 1104CHEM 1103
AG 1502CHEM 1111
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C‡†3
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 1043
HORT 101*3HORT 202*3
 General Education Course3
 15-17 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3ENT 3132
SOILS 101*‡†3ENT 314 or 3161
STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†3-4HORT 2323
HORT 101, 137, 138, 431, 432, or 433 (HORT Plant Materials Selection)3HORT 315*3
General Education Course3AGBM 200, 407, BLAW 243, BA 301, BA 303, SPAN 1, SPAN 2, SPAN 3, or SPAN 105 (Business/Spanish Selection)3-4
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course3
 16.5-17.5 15-16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PLANT 2003HORT 412W*3
HORT 4553HORT 408, 431, 432, 433, or 453 (HORT Production Selection)3-4
HORT 238 or AGRO 4383-4AGBM 200, 407, BLAW 243, BA 301, BA 303, SPAN 1, SPAN 2, SPAN 3, or SPAN 105 (Business/Spanish Selection)3-4
HORT 408, 431, 432, 433, or 453 (HORT Production Selection)3-4General Education Course3
Elective 3General Education Course3
 15-17 15-17
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 457*3HORT 4073
PPEM 405 or 3003PLANT 461*3
HORT 4453HORT 402W3
AGBM 200, 407, BLAW 243, BA 301, BA 303, SPAN 1, SPAN 2, SPAN 3, or SPAN 105 (Business/Spanish Selection)3-4HORT 495 or 4961
Elective or Supporting Course3-6General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 Elective or Supporting Course1-6
 15-19 12.5-17.5
Total Credits 120-137
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

PLANT GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AG 1502CHEM 1103
BIOL 1104CHEM 1111
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3SOILS 101*‡†3
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C‡†3
AGRO 28 or HORT 1013General Education Course3
 General Education Course3
 15-17 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 1123STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†3-4
CHEM 1131CHEM 2103
PLANT 2003BIOL 230W, 240W, BMB 211 and BMB 212, MICRB 201 and MICRB 202, or MICRB 251 and MICRB 252 (Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Selection)4-5
BIOL 2223General Education Course3
AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 1043General Education Course (GHW)1.5
PHYS 2504 
 17 14.5-16.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 457*3AGRO 410W4
CHEM 2123HORT/BIOTC/BIOL 4593
HORT 4073ENT 3132
AGRO 423, 425, HORT 202, HORT 315, HORT 431, HORT 432, HORT 433, or SOILS 418 (Production Selection)3ENT 314 or 3161
General Education Course3ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3
 Elective3
 15 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PPEM 405*3AGRO/BIOTC 4603
BMB 4002PLANT 461*3
AGECO 495, AGRO 495, HORT 495, or HORT 4961BIOL 407, 424, 441, HORT 402W, HORT 412W, or HORT 420 (General Plant Science Selection)3
BIOL 412, 414, 427, 428, 436, 448, ENT 420, HORT 445, or PPEM 425 (Plant Ecology, Evolution and Systematics Selection)3ENT 402W, 410, PPEM 416, or PPEM 425 (Plant Microbiology and Entomology Selection)3-4
BIOL 439, BIOTC 479, or HORT 497 (Plant Genetics and Biotechnology Selection)2-3General Education Course (GHW)1.5
General Education Course 3 
 14-15 13.5-14.5
Total Credits 121-127
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

PLANT SCIENCE OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AG 1502CHEM 1103
BIOL 1104CHEM 1111
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3SOILS 101*‡†3
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C‡†3
AGRO 28 or HORT 1013General Education Course3
 General Education Course3
 15-17 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 1123STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†3-4
CHEM 1131CHEM 2103
PLANT 2003ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3
AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 1043BIOL 230W, 230W, BMB 211 and BMB 212, MICRB 201 and MICRB 202, MICRB 251, or MICRB 252 (Mircobiology Selection)4-5
PHYS 2504General Education Course3
General Education Course3 
 17 16-18
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 457*3BIOL 2223
CHEM 2123CHEM 2132
AGRO 410W, 460, BIOL 407, BIOL 441, BIOL 424, HORT 402W, HORT 407, HORT 412W, HORT 420, or PPEM 430 (General Plant Science Selection)3-4AGRO 410W, HORT 412W, or SOILS 412W (Writing Across the Curriculum Selection)3-4
General Education Course3General Education Course3
Elective 3Elective3
 15-16 14-15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PPEM 405*3PLANT 461*3
AGECO 4951AGRO 410W, 460, BIOL 407, BIOL 441, BIOL 424, HORT 402W, HORT 407, HORT 412W, HORT 420, or PPEM 430 (General Plant Science Selection)3-4
ENT 3132BIOL 439, ENT 402W, ENT 410, or PPEM 425 (Plant Microbiology and Entomology Selection)3
ENT 3141AGRO 460, BIOL 439, HORT 407, or HORT 459 (Plant Genetics and Biotechnology Selection)3
BIOL 412, 414, 427, 428, 436, 448, ENT 402W, ENT 420, HORT 445, or PPEM 425 (Plant Ecology, Evolution and Systematics Selection)3Elective2-3
Elective3 
 13 14-16
Total Credits 120-128
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

AGROECOLOGY OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT COMMONWEALTH CAMPUSES

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
First Year Seminar1-3CHEM 1103
BIOL 1104CHEM 1111
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3AG 160, GEOG 30N, PHIL 13, PHIL 103, or PHIL 132 (Ethics Selection)3
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5Elective3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 14-18 14.5
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 1043ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3
CAS 100‡†3Supporting Course or Elective3
STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†3-4Supporting Course4
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 15-16 14.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
SOILS 101*†3ENT 3132
SOILS 1021ENT 3161
PPEM 4053AGECO 201*3
PLANT 2003AGRO 410W, HORT 412W, or SOILS 412W (Writing Across the Curriculum)3-4
AGRO 28 or HORT 101*3AGECO 122, AGECO 134, AGECO 144, AGECO 154, or AGECO 496 (Agroecology Selection)3
AGRO 423, 425, HORT 202, HORT 315, HORT 431, HORT 432, HORT 433, or SOILS 418 (Production Selection)3AGRO 423, 425, HORT 202, HORT 315, HORT 431, HORT 432, HORT 433, or SOILS 418 (Production Selection)3
 16 15-16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 2951PLANT 461*3
AGECO 457*3SOILS 4013
AGECO 4384SOILS 4023
BIOL 222 or HORT 407 (Plant Breeding/Genetics Selection)3AGECO 495 (or Elective)1
Supporting Course4Supporting Course3
 Supporting Course 3
 15 16
Total Credits 120-126
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

CROP PRODUCTION OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT COMMONWEALTH CAMPUSES

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
First Year Seminar1-3CHEM 1103
BIOL 1104CHEM 111‡†1
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3Supporting Course3-4
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5General Education Course3
Elective3General Education Course (GHW)3
 14-18 13-14
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 1043ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3
AG 160, PHIL 13, PHIL 103, or PHIL 132 (Ethics Selection)3CAS 100‡†3
General Education Course3STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†3-4
General Education Course3AGRO 28 or HORT 101*3
Elective4Supporting Course3
 16 15-16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
SOILS 101*‡†3AGECO 2013
SOILS 1021ENT 3132
PLANT 2003ENT 314 or 3161
AGECO 4384AGRO 410W, SOILS 412W, or HORT 412W (Writing Across the Curriculum)3-4
AGRO 4233AGRO 4253
AGECO 154 (or Supporting Course)2AGECO 418, ANSC 201, GEOG 160, or SOILS 450 (Special Interest Selection)3
 16 15-16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 457*3PLANT 461*3
AEE 201, 360, 460, or 465 (Leadership Selection)3SOILS 4013
AGBM 102, 106, 200, or 407 (Business Selection)3SOILS 4023
AGECO 4292AGECO 295 (or Supporting Course)1-3
AGECO 495 or AGRO 4951HORT 4073
PPEM 4053Supporting Course3
 15 16-18
Total Credits 120-129
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

HORTICULTURE OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT COMMONWEALTH CAMPUSES

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
First Year Seminar1-3CHEM 1103
BIOL 1104CHEM 1111
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C‡†3
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 1043
General Education Course (GHW)1.5AGBM 200, 407, BLAW 243, BA 301, BA 303, SPAN 1, SPAN 2, SPAN 3, or SPAN 105 (Business/Spanish Selection)3-4
 General Education Course3
 12.5-16.5 16-17
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3AGBM 200, 407, BLAW 243, BA 301, BA 303, SPAN 1, SPAN 2, SPAN 3, or SPAN 105 (Business/Spanish Selection)3-4
STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†3-4Elective or Supporting Course3
AGBM 200, 407, BLAW 243, BA 301, BA 303, SPAN 1, SPAN 2, SPAN 3, or SPAN 105 (Business/Spanish Selection)4General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 16-17 13.5-14.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HORT 101*3HORT 202*3
SOILS 101*‡†3HORT 2323
PLANT 2003HORT 315*3
HORT 4553ENT 3132
HORT 238 or AGRO 4383-4ENT 314 or 3161
 HORT 408, 431, 432, 433, or 453 (HORT Production Selection)3-4
 15-16 15-16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 457*3HORT 4073
PPEM 405 or 3003PLANT 461*3
HORT 4453HORT 402W3
HORT 408, 431, 432, 433, or 453 (HORT Production Selection)4HORT 495 or 4961
HORT 131, 137, 138, 431, 432, or 433 (HORT Plant Materials Selection)3HORT 412W*3
 Elective or Supporting Course3
 16 16
Total Credits 120-129
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

PLANT GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT COMMONWEALTH CAMPUSES

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
First Year Seminar1-3CHEM 1103
BIOL 1104CHEM 1111
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C‡†3
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 14-18 13
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 1123ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3
CHEM 1131STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†3-4
AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 104‡†3BIOL 230W, 240W, BMB 211 and BMB 212, MICRB 201 and MICRB 202, or MICRB 251 and MICRB 252 (Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Selection)4-5
PHYS 2504General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course (GHW)1.5
General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 15.5 14.5-16.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
BIOL 2223AGRO 410W4
CHEM 2103HORT/BIOTC/BIOL 4593
AGRO 28 or HORT 1013CHEM 2123
PPEM 405*3ENT 3132
PLANT 2003ENT 314 or 3161
AGRO 423, 425, HORT 202, HORT 315, HORT 431, HORT 432, HORT 433, or SOILS 418 (Production Selection)3SOILS 101*‡†3
 18 16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 457*3AGRO/BIOTC 4603
BMB 4002PLANT 461*3
HORT 4073BIOL 407, 424, 441, HORT 402W, HORT 412W, or HORT 420 (General Plant Science Selection)3
AGECO 495, AGRO 495, HORT 495, or HORT 4961ENT 402W, 410, PPEM 416, or PPEM 425 (Plant Microbiology and Entomology Selection)3
BIOL 412, 414, 427, 428, 436, 448, ENT 420, HORT 445, or PPEM 425 (Plant Ecology, Evolution and Systematics Selection)3-4Elective3-4
BIOL 439, BIOTC 479, or HORT 497 (Plant Genetics and Biotechnology Option)2-3 
 14-16 15-16
Total Credits 120-129
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

PLANT SCIENCE OPTION: PLANT SCIENCES, B.S. AT COMMONWEALTH CAMPUSES

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
First Year Seminar1-3CHEM 1103
BIOL 1104CHEM 1111
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡†3SOILS 101*‡†3
MATH 22, 26, 40, 41, 110, or 140‡†3-5General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 14-18 14.5
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CHEM 1123STAT 200, 240, or 250‡†3-4
CHEM 1131CHEM 2103
AGBM 101, ECON 14, ECON 102, or ECON 104‡†3ENGL 202C or 202D‡†3
PHYS 2504Elective3
CAS 100‡†3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 17 16.5-17.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 457*3BIOL 2223
PPEM 405*3CHEM 2132
CHEM 2123AGRO 410W, HORT 412W, or SOILS 412W3-4
PLANT 2003BIOL 230W, 240W, BMB 211 and BMB 212, MICRB 201 and MICRB 202, MICRB 251, or MICRB 252 (Microbiology Selection)3-4
AGRO 28 or HORT 1013Elective3
 15 14-16
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
AGECO 4951PLANT 461*3
ENT 3132AGRO 410W, 460, BIOL 407, BIOL 441, BIOL 424, HORT 402W, HORT 407, HORT 412W, HORT 420, or PPEM 430 (General Plant Science Selection)4
ENT 3141AGRO 460, BIOL 439, HORT 407, or HORT 459 (Plant Genetics and Biotechnology Selection)3
BIOL 412, 414, 427, 428, 436, 448, ENT 402W, ENT 420, HORT 445, or PPEM 425 (Plant Ecology, Evolution and Systematics Selection)3-4Elective 3
BIOL 439, ENT 402W, ENT 410, PPEM 416, or PPEM 425 (Plant Microbiology and Entomology Selection)3-4Elective3
AGRO 410W, 460, BIOL 407, BIOL 441, BIOL 424, HORT 402W, HORT 407, HORT 412W, HORT 420, or PPEM 430 (General Plant Science Selection)4 
 14-16 16
Total Credits 121-130
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Advising Note:

Please consult with your academic adviser regarding the appropriate selection of elective and supporting courses.  Supporting courses must be selected from the “Approved List of Additional Courses”.

Career Paths

Careers opportunities exist in agronomic and horticultural crop production systems, sustainable agriculture and ecosystem science, crop protection, applied plant physiology, plant science research, and plant biotechnology. Students may also pursue graduate studies; however, most students find fulfilling careers upon graduation and do not pursue graduate studies.

Careers

Careers are available in plant science research, marketing and sales, plant health and protection, sustainable agriculture and food systems, public gardens and arboretums, greenhouse and nursery production and management, cooperative extension, plant biotechnology, resource protection, farm management, and with government or non-government agencies.

Opportunities for Graduate Studies

Students may pursue graduate studies in areas related to ecology, plant pathology, soil science, horticulture, agronomy, international agriculture, and entomology, or in other biological areas.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATE STUDIES

Contact

University Park

DEPARTMENT OF PLANT SCIENCE
101 Tyson Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-865-2571

https://plantscience.psu.edu/about/contact