It is desirable that prospective botany majors obtain a strong background in the biological and physical sciences at the high school level. Specifically recommended are a minimum of three years of high school mathematics, including algebra, geometry, and some exposure to trigonometry; one year of chemistry; one year of biology; one year of physics and courses designed to develop computer and writing skills. Students without an adequate background in mathematics and science can make up these deficiencies early in their college career.

career in program related or Career Paths: applied to Graduate School (54%), e.g Masters programs in Botany and Plant Pathology, Crop and Soil Science, Horticulture, Mycology, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Science, Education worked in a government position (17%), e.g. US Forest Service, US Geological Survey, Oregon Department of Agriculture, US Bureau of Land Management, US Natural Resources Conservation Service (some of these positions are seasonal) worked in non-profit organization, or private sector (13%), e.g field botanist for private contractor, technician for scientific research company worked in educational institution (11%), e.g, research technician at a College or University taken courses as a post-baccalaureate student (6%)