If you want to major in plant science and technology, then you’ve got options for your degree. You could get an associate degree in about two years for a solid foundation in the field and the opportunity to pursue more education later on, or get a bachelor’s degree for a more in-depth look and the opportunity to go to graduate school.
There’s a lot more to it than that, so read on if you’re still trying to decide which degree in plant science and technology is right for you.
Time and Cost Commitment
The biggest difference between an associate and bachelor’s degree is how much time and money you spend on them. While it varies at every university, this typically looks like:
- Associate Degree: This degree is 60 credits, and that usually takes about two years to complete, which means you can get to work in the agriculture sector faster. The average tuition per year for an associate degree is about $4,050, but depending on where you go, that number will change. Community colleges can be cheaper, but universities might offer more resources for your program.
- Bachelor’s Degree: This degree has 120 credits, which is twice as much and another two years, but it can lead you to better work. The yearly tuition for this kind of degree averages between $10,940 and $39,400 a year. At BYU-Idaho, the cost for just one year of school is around $5,000.
What You Study
Both degrees in plant science and technology will have essential classes in soil science, agriculture technology, irrigation, and chemistry. Beyond that, the two degrees differ.
- Associate Degree: An associate degree will have more foundational courses in plant science. This can include crop science, plant propagation, soil fertility, and a few more that build the groundwork for more study.
- Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree offers a more in depth look at the field, and includes courses that support a better understanding of agriculture in general. This could be agricultural financial accounting, machinery management, plant breeding, and a lot more.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Because how much you learn is different, the jobs available to you after graduation are different, too. They vary in expertise, pay, and chances for advancement.
With an associate degree in plant science and technology, you can find jobs like:
- Precisions Agriculture Technician: Use technology to collect data on soil, fertilizer, pests, and weather to find the best place to plant crops.
- Crop, Nursery, & Greenhouse Worker: Plant, cultivate, and harvest vegetables, fruits, nuts, horticultural specialties, and field crops.
- Agricultural Inspector: Inspect products, processing equipment, and facilities in agriculture to ensure health, quality, and safety.
With a bachelor’s degree in plant science and technology, you can find positions like:
- Natural Sciences Manager: Plan and direct projects in the life and physical sciences, including agriculture and plant science.
- Conservation Scientist: Protect natural resources and maximize their use without damaging the environment.
- Soil & Plant Scientist: Research and study different factors that affect plant life to help farmers grow what they need.
Which Degree Is Right for You
If you’re still having trouble deciding, don’t worry! Check out this table for a brief overview of what each degree can offer you:
| | Associate Degree in Plant Science and Technology | Bachelor’s Degree in Plant Science and Technology |
| Time and Cost Commitment |
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| What You Study | Groundwork courses in:
| More advanced courses in:
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