Be a Part of Something That Lets You Grow
The Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture (PSLA) prepares future leaders by providing a dynamic, inclusive environment where students can thrive. With a focus on cutting-edge fields like cannabis horticulture, urban landscape design, and sustainable practices, we equip students to address both local and global challenges.
We offer two Bachelor of Science degrees, a 2-year Associate of Applied Science degree, and advanced degrees (MS, PhD) for qualified candidates. With access to our research farm and faculty-led labs, students gain valuable, real-world experience that shapes their path toward successful careers in plant science and landscape architecture.
Explore our Research Farm – where students gain hands-on experience in sustainable practices and innovative research:
Careers
What types of careers are available to Plant Science and Landscape Architecture Graduates?
[list of careers]
Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture
We design, research, teach, and do public outreach, imagining vibrant communities and creating places of value; while protecting and restoring our natural and cultural resources. We strive toward actionable and collaborative practices that address climate justice and social equity. If you are a spatial thinker and you love art and design and you love plants and horticulture, then this is the program for you.
Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Plant and Soil Systems
The Sustainable Plant and Soil Systems major offers concentrations in Environmental Horticulture, Sustainable Agriculture, and Turfgrass Science. Our program focuses on the science and practices associated with sustainable plant production and use within managed systems. If you're someone who loves plants, wants to learn about plant development, production, and management, and has an interest in reducing environmental impacts on our planet, this is the major for you. Across all concentrations, students benefit from enhanced interaction with faculty through small classes and personalized advising and have the opportunity to gain real-world experience through internships and research.
Associate of Applied Science in Plant Science
The Plant Science program in the Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture is offered by our department. Plant Science majors can choose from three concentrations; Ornamental Horticulture, Turfgrass Management, and Sustainable Crop Production. Our concentrations offer students the opportunity to gain a hands-on experience and design a unique educational experience. We offer a diverse curriculum covering many aspects of plant science, including course work in turfgrass management, soil science, garden center management, pest control, vegetable production, and more. Our students have the opportunity to gain practical experience and engage in career networking through internships.
Minors
- Ornamental Horticulture
- Integrated Pest Management
- Turfgrass Management
- Cannabis Cultivation
- Agricultural Biotechnology
- Sustainable Food Crop Production
- Sustainable Community Food Systems
Graduate Programs
MS and PhD in Plant Science
We offer the degrees Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The MS and PhD degrees may be awarded in Plant Science, with concentrations in Agronomy, Horticulture, Landscape Architecture, Plant Breeding, Plant Environment, Soil Science, or Soil Chemistry.
Student Clubs & Organizations
Explore extracurricular activities in our department!
- Horticulture Club
- Turf Club
- Cannabis Club
- Beekeeping Club
- EcoGarden Club
- UConn Student Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects
Join our clubs to get involved in plant sales, field trips, networking opportunities, gardening, hands-on educational activities, discussions and more!
