Crop science and management
Bachelor of Science in Plant Science
Overview
Related Topics
The science behind healthy crop production
Our world’s expanding need for food and energy sources requires professionals who have the expertise to manage and produce high-yield, high-quality crops.
This program combines the study of applied crop production and management, giving you broad-based knowledge to grow successful crops. You will explore soils, weeds, plant breeding, microbes, insects and other areas related to plant growth. You will also study advanced growing techniques like biotechnology and global positioning systems (GPS).
Much of your education takes place in the on-campus greenhouses and in the lab, where you might insert a jellyfish gene into tobacco to make it glow in the dark, produce biodiesel from canola seeds or create a dual potato-tomato plant through grafting.
View the sample four-year plan for this degree.
Rooted in science and growing with tech
Degree fit
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are strong in science
- Have an interest in agriculture
- Want to manage farms or crop production
- Are involved in 4-H, FFA or other agriculture-related activities
- Are interested in local, national and global agricultural issues
Career outcomes
Current job openings
3,238 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Farmworkers
$33,735 - Soil and Plant Scientists
$80,093 - Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators
$45,173 - Agricultural Managers
$36,562 - Precision Agriculture Technicians • Agricultural Technicians
$44,337
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho. When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that students can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Recognized STEM Program
This program is recognized as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and may be eligible for the 24-month STEM optional practical training extension for international students.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
- Take a senior experience course in pesticides in the environment
- Complete an internship, applied research experience or directed study
- Study abroad in Taiwan, Mexico, India, Europe or South America
- Access to plant science farms and computer-controlled greenhouses
Clubs
- Food and Agribusiness Club
- Collegiate Young Farmers and Ranchers
- Soil Stewards Club
- Collegiate FFA
- Plant and Soil Science Club
- Hydroponics Club
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.