University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme combines core plant biology concepts with specialised research training. You will study plant physiology, plant systematics and taxonomy, plant ecology and community dynamics, and molecular and cellular approaches to plant biology. Coursework typically emphasises experimental design, statistical analysis, laboratory techniques (including microscopy and molecular methods), and field methods specific to the northern Great Plains and boreal-influenced ecosystems.

• Core topics: plant physiology, plant ecology, plant systematics/taxonomy.
• Research and methods: experimental design, biostatistics, molecular lab techniques, microscopy, herbarium methods and greenhouse studies.
• Applied subjects: restoration ecology, conservation biology, invasive species biology, plant–soil interactions.
• Seminar and research: participation in departmental seminars, reading courses and completion of an independent research project under faculty supervision.

The degree emphasises active research training: students work closely with faculty mentors to develop and execute an independent thesis project, with opportunities to collect field data on regional ecosystems, use greenhouse and growth-chamber facilities, and access institutional herbarium and laboratory resources.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, plant sciences, or a closely related discipline, and demonstrate a solid foundation in core biological sciences. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a statement of purpose describing research interests and suitability for the programme, letters of recommendation (usually two or three), and a curriculum vitae.

Prior coursework in ecology, genetics, plant physiology or molecular biology and some laboratory or field experience are advantageous. International applicants are normally required to demonstrate English language proficiency via recognised tests unless exempt. Specific GPA or test-score thresholds and any additional departmental requirements are published by the university and should be checked on the department’s admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme move into a range of careers across research, conservation, government, industry and education. Common pathways include:

• continuing to PhD study and academic research in plant biology, ecology or related fields;
• technical and scientific roles in government agencies and natural resource departments working on conservation, restoration and land management;
• environmental and ecological consulting, including habitat assessment and invasive species management;
• positions in botanical gardens, herbaria, and conservation NGOs involved with plant collection, curation and public education;
• biotechnology and agricultural sectors in roles involving plant breeding, crop physiology or molecular diagnostics;
• teaching positions at community colleges or involvement in outreach and citizen-science programmes.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers distinctive regional expertise in northern Great Plains and boreal-influenced ecosystems, providing students with relevant field sites and applied research opportunities. Faculty research strengths encompass plant ecology, restoration, physiology and molecular plant biology, allowing students to join active projects or develop original research aligned with these areas.

Students benefit from access to departmental laboratories, greenhouse and growth-chamber facilities, and museum or herbarium collections that support taxonomic and ecological work. The programme’s research-led structure and close faculty supervision create an environment well suited to students who seek hands-on training and preparation for research careers or applied roles in conservation and natural resource management.