Sustainable Plant Systems

B.S. in Sustainable Plant Systems

Develop sustainable food production systems by applying the latest plant and soil science.

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$76,400
Median Industry Pay (U.S. BLS 2023)

today
Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter
Entry Terms

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Tucson, Yuma
campus LOCATIONs

Leading modern plant production

The B.S. in Sustainable Plant Systems prepares you to be a leader in 21st-century agriculture and an expert in agricultural technology, plant improvement and responsible plant production systems. You’ll be able to grow more, improve yields and reduce pest problems, all while using less land, chemicals and water. With this interdisciplinary major and its four possible emphases, you can pursue a career in research, crop marketing, food safety and crop production.

College is a big investment, but a University of Arizona education may be more affordable than you think. No matter your background or family’s financial situation, you have options to make it manageable.

At Arizona, 9 out of 10 students receive financial aid. That means most students pay less than the estimates shown here. By maximizing your financial aid – scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study – you can lower your costs while earning a degree that will pay you back for a lifetime.

Estimated cost of tuition for first-year and transfer students:

  • Arizona residents: $13,900/yr
  • Non-Arizona residents: $42,300/yr

Get our degree guide to learn how students like you are funding their futures.

Application requirements vary based on your status as a first-time, transfer, international, online or returning student.

  • Students who haven't completed 12+ transferable post-high school college credits are considered a first-time college student, and must meet Arizona's core competency requirements to be eligible to apply.
  • You are considered a transfer student if you have completed 12+ transferable post-high school college credits.
    • If you are under the age of 22 at the start of your desired term, you will need to meet the core competency requirements and have a minimum 2.0 cumulative college/university GPA.
    • If you are 22 or older at the start of your desired term, you will need a minimum 2.0 cumulative college/university GPA.
  • SAT/ACT scores are not required for general admission.
  • You have the option to submit a resume and 500-word personal statement during your application.

Get our degree guide to find out more details about the application process and deadlines.

A degree in sustainable plant systems prepares you for careers in food production, renewable energy, medicine, agriculture and manufacturing. It also can serve as a springboard for graduate school. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for careers related to agricultural and food science was $76,400 per year with a faster-than-average job growth overall (2023).

There are a variety of career opportunities available to students who complete a B.S. in Sustainable Plant Systems, including:

  • Agronomist: Manage soil and field crop production, conduct research, and develop production practices and new crop varieties.
  • Horticulturist: Work in fields and greenhouses to cultivate high-value, specialty crops and provide consultation to landscape architects about ecologically sustainable grounds-management practices.
  • Botanist: Study plants and their environment to identify and classify new species.
  • Plant geneticist: Research and work to identify genes useful in developing desirable plant traits, with jobs in public and private sectors.
  • Education and advocacy: Work in museums, public parks or government positions to educate policymakers and communities about the importance of plants and thoughtful stewardship of the world’s natural resources.

Gain Hands-On Horticulture Experience

Get the skills you need for a lucrative career in agronomy and horticulture by joining a plant-focused student club, exploring our campus greenhouses, and more. 

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$1,000,000+ in scholarships

The College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences (CALES) offers $1 million in exclusive scholarships to our students. Combine these options with university scholarships and support from privately funded scholarships and you're well on your way to achieving your educational goals at a price you can afford.

Resources to Help You Succeed

Get exclusive resources from a college that is dedicated to help you grow as you follow your interests.

  • CALES Learning Lab: personalized academic support – from major-specific resources to tutoring.
  • Student Wellness: resources to help you live a healthier, more resilient life.
  • CALES Career Center: get the tools you need to find, apply and interview for your dream internships and jobs.
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Ready to start your career in applied economics?

From our welcoming local community to our sunny campus, every corner holds the promise of new adventures and personal growth. Your journey to a career at the intersection of agronomy and horticulture starts here. Sign up to discover what it means to be a part of the University of Arizona College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences.

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