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 labs, 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.
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are strong in science
- Have an interest in sustainable or regenerative agriculture
- Enjoy challenges and problem solving
- Want to crop consult, manage a farm or crop production
- Have an interest in plant breeding
- Are involved in 4-H, FFA or other agriculture-related activities
- Are interested in local, national and global agricultural issues
Rooted in science and growing with tech
Curriculum
The B.S.Pl.Sc. in crop science and management is a 120-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Choose from two emphasis areas — crop science or crop management — to tailor your coursework to your interests and career goals. Students in this program acquire technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
View the sample four-year plan for this degree.
Explore program courses in the University Catalog.
Learning objectives
- Apply plant science knowledge in all areas of plant production and management
- Understand plant physiology and metabolic processes
- Identify weeds, pests, diseases and learn how to implement integrated pest management strategies
- Evaluate the environmental impacts of different production techniques
- Use advanced agricultural technology
Hands-on learning
- Take a senior experience course in plant nutrition
- Complete an internship, applied research experience or directed study
- Study abroad to learn about global agricultural issues
- Learn at the plant science farms and computer-controlled greenhouses
Career outcomes
Current job openings
3,330 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Farmworkers
$34,088 - Soil and Plant Scientists
$82,430 - Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators
$45,143 - Agricultural Managers
$36,690 - Precision Agriculture Technicians • Agricultural Technicians
$47,827
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
- Plant and Soil Science Club
- Hydroponics Club
- Agronomy Club
- Food and Agribusiness Club
- Collegiate Young Farmers and Ranchers
- Soil Stewards Club
- Collegiate FFA
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, the University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
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.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty
What can you do with a crop science and management degree?
University of Idaho crop science and management students gain hands-on experience in crop production, weed science, agricultural research and farm management. Explore how students are using internships, research and industry experience to prepare for careers in agriculture.
- From seed potatoes to grain leadership — See how Olivia Redmond turned hands-on experience in crop management into a career in Idaho agriculture. Read Olivia’s story
- Advancing weed science — Learn how FFA sparked Abigail Crawford’s interest in weed science, undergraduate research and graduate study. Read Abigail’s story
- Building a career in crop research — See how Jack Scheffler combined plant science and business to prepare for a career in crop research and field testing. Read Jack’s story
- Preparing for a career in farming — Explore how internships and a crop science education helped prepare a Blackfoot native for a future in production agriculture. Read the story