Protect your career in the growing field of botany and plant science

With the need for sustainable practices and environmental conservation, the importance of botany is expanding. This fields are increasingly interdisciplinary, providing the opportunity to work in other disciplines such as ecology, genetics and agriculture. Botany graduates who are knowledgeable, technically proficient and adaptable will be set to succeed in dynamic, varied career opportunities.

Our faculty members are leading experts in their respective fields, engaged in cutting-edge research and passionate about teaching. With their guidance, you'll deepen your understanding of plant physiology, genetics, ecology and other related subjects. This knowledge will prepare you for opportunities within industries such as agriculture, horticulture, biotechnology, conservation and more.

UNE offers the option of studying online or on-campus, providing you with flexibility and choice. Online students can connect with other professionals to build networks for the future, while on campus students can access campus accommodation, sports facilities and support services. Both modes of learning are available on a full-time or part-time basis, with three trimesters per year.

Studying botany with UNE will provide you with the skills necessary to excel in the constantly evolving field of flora. Regardless of which industry you plan to work in, our offerings will prepare you for success. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.

Discover the plant science and botany offerings available at UNE now.

Courses by study level

Bachelor of Science

Constant technological disruption and new discoveries in science influence every aspect of our lives, meaning that there has never been a better time than now to safeguard your future career with scientific knowledge and practical skills. With a diverse range of majors to choose from, UNE’s Bachelor of Science is flexibly delivered by experts in research and teaching. Tailor your degree towards generalist or specialist science, while developing a broad scientific base and refining your abilities in critical analysis and complex problem solving. Our majors span the pure and applied sciences, with specialisation available in traditional disciplines and emerging fields.

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

With UNE's Bachelor of Rural Science, you will graduate at the forefront of the agricultural industry ready to solve complex problems in agricultural systems across enterprises, landscapes and the globe. You will have the paddock-ready scientific skills to adapt to future challenges as a professional, and you will gain an understanding of the sustainability of the whole agricultural system from the biophysical (soils, plants and animal production) including environmental, social and economic principles.

You will be well-positioned to become a leader in a range of industry contexts from farm management, the corporate world and scientific research.

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The world requires skilled scientists and innovators to develop solutions to the complex environmental problems facing a rapidly changing planet. Our Bachelor of Environmental Science is a highly flexible course that provides you with a broad foundation in the core theories and specialised applied skills that underpin environmental science, together with a strong scientific understanding of local and global environmental issues and their management.

Future-proof your career with the knowledge and practical skills you will need to thrive as an environmental scientist, and help to find the solutions we will need to build environmental, socially and fiscally sustainable systems.

Duration
  • 3 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Studying the Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws at UNE will equip you with an extensive portfolio of knowledge and skills to future proof your career. In this comprehensive program of study, you will develop contemporary skills in how to write for, research, argue and apply the law, as well as explore a full breadth of contemporary science topics and issues. You will graduate with knowledge and skills to apply to a wide range of professions, benefitting from UNE's regional, rural and remote expertise in both fields to ensure you are ready to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Duration
  • 5 years full-time
  • Up to 12 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

The world requires skilled scientists and innovators to develop the solutions to the complex environmental problems facing a rapidly changing planet. Combined with a contemporary understanding of the theory and practice of law, the UNE Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws will open the door to a wide range of evolving career opportunities.

Our double degree provides you with a professionally accredited law degree with a comprehensive grounding in regional, national and global environmental science and natural resource issues. You will graduate with broad knowledge and technical skills to apply to a wide range of professions, and benefit from UNE’s specialist regional, rural and remote perspective in both fields.

Duration
  • 5 years full-time
  • Up to 12 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Do you dream of a career where you’re helping to address the big issues facing humanity? Or perhaps you crave the excitement of being at the forefront of scientific discovery? Maybe you wish to instil your passion for the environment into future generations? Our Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science is uniquely positioned to help you reach your goals, with wide-spanning knowledge and a diverse set of skills to be adaptable in a rapidly changing world.

This combined degree will help lay the foundation for you to acquire the ability to innovate and problem-solve—attributes that are in demand more than ever by employers in Australia and internationally.

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Contribute to world class research by completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours at UNE. Position yourself with advanced scientific knowledge in an era of rapid change. Our honours course goes beyond the normal practical and field training and provides you with a wide range of cross-disciplinary applied research opportunities to foster your development as a skill research professional.

We offer a range of majors spanning the pure and applied sciences, working with UNE's internationally recognised research disciplines. Our flexible, innovative learning environment equips you with advanced discipline knowledge and skills in critical thinking, data analysis and problem-solving to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • 2 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

With a wide range of majors in both the pure and applied sciences, UNE's Master of Scientific Studies provides you with specialised training in your chosen scientific discipline. Do you want to be able to respond to constant technological disruption in the workplace by learning more about big data? Perhaps you are passionate about our natural environments and want to refine your knowledge of Australian plants and animals. Are you upskilling to position yourself at the cutting-edge of new medical discoveries?

Our coursework Master's degree gives you opportunities to future fit your career by expanding on your expertise, upgrading your applied skills, and developing the advanced knowledge needed to solve complex problems in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Upgrade your skills and develop your expertise with science-based agricultural studies through UNE's Master of Science in Agriculture. Our flexible program of specialist coursework allows you to steer your studied towards your interests and shape the direction of your career within the agricultural industry. We offer a range of specialisations, including animal science, meat science, genetics and animal breeding, and agronomy and soil science.

Choose from a wide range of units, covering all aspects of the agricultural industry and receive a comprehensive introduction to research skills and research methodology. You can also undertake a research project supervised by our world-class researchers.

UNE is a leading innovator in teaching and research in the agricultural sciences. Your advanced knowledge and skillset will prepare you for high-level work in this rapidly evolving industry.

Duration
  • 1 or 1.5 or 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

In a world facing growing environmental challenges, sustainable management of natural resources has never been more critical. The Master of Natural Resource Management equips you with the knowledge and tools to navigate complex ecological, social, and policy issues in a rapidly changing world.

You’ll explore interdisciplinary approaches to conserving biodiversity, managing land and water, and supporting community resilience. Designed for professionals and aspiring leaders and taught by world leading multi-disciplinary scientists, this course prepares you to influence policy, drive innovation, and create tangible impact in conservation, resource governance, and environmental management.

Duration
  • 1 or 1.5 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Whether you want to upgrade your expertise or pivot to another scientific speciality, UNE's Graduate Diploma in Science allows you to hone your skills and future fit your career. Flexibly delivered, and with a wide range of majors in diverse scientific disciplines to choose from, you can tailor the course to your strengths and interests. Add value to your role and ensure you can adapt and thrive in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Design a bespoke course and prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace with the UNE Graduate Diploma in Professional Practice. Whether you want to advance your career, hone your skills or embark on a new career direction, we'll work with you to design a course to match your skills and aspirations.

You will have the freedom to assemble your course from a full breadth of subjects, play to your strengths and draw from your experience to achieve your goals. Learn in a way that suits your timeframe and do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor — with one-on-one guidance from start to finish. You'll be paving your pathway to the next stage of your career.

Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online

In the rapidly changing world of science and technology, it has never been more important to refine and expand your expertise. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Science, flexibly delivered online or on campus, gives you the opportunity to complete intensive graduate-level study in science, whether you want to upskill or you are seeking to update your discipline knowledge.

With a range of majors to choose from, and options to continue to further higher degree research, you can safeguard your career and be ready to adapt and respond to challenges you will face in this diverse and dynamic field.

Duration
  • 0.5 years full-time
  • Up to 2 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Environmental factors play an increasing role in decision making in many fields. The ability to take these factors into account and improve the productivity and sustainability of environmental systems to meet the current and future needs of communities and industry is in demand in the workplace. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science gives you a foundation in environmental science, allowing you to upskill and expand your knowledge, whether you wish to pivot in your career or add value to your role.

With future-proofed skills and an in-depth understanding of environmental problems and their management, you will be better placed to anticipate and respond to the challenges we're facing in a rapidly changing world.

Duration
  • 0.5 or 1 year full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Adapt to an evolving workplace and open the door to new career opportunities with UNE's Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice. Whether you want to create more career choices, hone your specialist skills, or take a new career direction, we will work with you to customise a course to match your skills and aspirations.

Choose from a full breadth of subjects. Avoid getting bogged down in a lengthy, traditional course, and instead, play to your natural strengths, refine your skills and draw on your experience to prepare for the future. And do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor with 1:1 guidance from start to finish.

Duration
  • 0.5 years full-time
  • 2 years part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession.

When you complete your PhD at UNE, you will be recognised as an expert in your area of study. Your original discoveries and innovations will be applied to benefit society and industry in Australia and worldwide.

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • 8 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus

Practice-based research drives better decisions, stronger services and measurable outcomes. UNE’s Professional Doctorate provides foundational research training with a research thesis, supporting experienced professionals to contribute to the development of original knowledge that improves professional practice in their fields.

Co-design a workplace-embedded project with your UNE supervision team and your organisation, aligning rigorous methods with real-world challenges. Your examinable output is tailored to your discipline—for example, a thesis, a dissertation with artefacts, or an exegesis with a portfolio of creative, technical or performance works.

Duration
  • 4 years full-time
  • 8 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Upgrade your knowledge and skills or pivot your career by developing expertise in sustainable, science-based agricultural systems of production through UNE's Master of Rural Science. This postgraduate degree offers a supportive program of independent research related to practical and sustainable production of food and fibre.

UNE is a leading innovator in teaching and research in the agricultural sciences. Your advanced knowledge and skillset will prepare you for high-level work in this rapidly evolving industry.

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online
Master of Science

Understanding and discovery in science drives advancement, providing solutions to the world's health, environmental, agricultural and technological challenges. UNE's Master of Science allows you to study flexibly, to gain expertise and research training, and to contribute to current scientific knowledge. You will be supervised by internationally-recognised scientists and with opportunities to immerse yourself in UNE's vibrant research culture and access to our world-class facilities, develop your skills as a research professional.

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Research Period 1
  • Research Period 2
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online
Master of Philosophy

High quality research and analysis allows us to better understand the complex issues we face in industry and society. With UNE's Master of Philosophy by research, your original findings and insights will add to the body of knowledge and inform decision-making in your specialist area.

You will work independently, with personalised support from recognised experts in your area of study every step of the way. Expand your expertise, hone your research skills, and immediately apply your knowledge in a research topic of your choice.

Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 4 years part-time
Start
  • Not Offered - Pending Review
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • Online
  • On Campus
Non-Award

The world is full of possibilities, with so much to discover and learn. There are endless opportunities to enrich your knowledge to prepare for the future, but what if you don’t want to undertake a full degree? And how can you zero-in on the subjects that matter most to you? That’s what a Non-Award unit with UNE will help you to achieve.

Non-Award study means you can learn without the need to complete entire course requirements or take on a full course load. Whether it’s a language you want to learn, a business unit to enhance your career, an improvement of your IT skills, an update on education principles or developing your management style, Non-Award study gives you the flexibility and control to explore what matters to you.

Duration
  • 1 trimester full-time
  • 1 trimester part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online
Cross-Institutional

If you are enrolled at another university, you can choose to study subjects at UNE that will count towards your course. Apply as a cross-institutional student directly and complete one or several individual subjects (units) from the full scope of UNE's discipline areas.

Duration
  • 1 trimester full-time
  • 1 trimester part-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
  • Trimester 3 - Oct 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus
  • Online

Our Postgraduate International Qualifying Program is designed to provide you with the skills you need to succeed in postgraduate-level studies at UNE. If you don't already meet the requirements for admission to select Masters degrees at UNE, this non-award program provides you with a pathway to become eligible. From business administration and management to information technology, cybersecurity, environmental science and management, or agriculture, the Postgraduate International Qualifying Program will set you on the path to your dream UNE Masters degree.

Duration
  • 1 trimester full-time
Start
  • Trimester 1 - Feb 2027
  • Trimester 2 - Jun 2027
View all offering start dates
Mode
  • On Campus

What our students say

UNE Bachelor of Science (Genetics) student Dominic Waters completes fun run beneath canopy of hands

As I progressed through university, I found that I enjoyed statistics and genetics. UNE happens to be very strong in both of these areas, so it was a good fit.

Dominic Waters, UNE Bachelor of Science (Genetics) student

Find the right major or specialisation for your studies in Botany and Plant Science

In a changing climate, plant science and botany professionals are in high demand. Access UNE's world-class facilities and learn from experienced academics who will provide you with practical knowledge in areas such as plant genetics, ecology, conservation and physiology. Explore your options now.

Filter by:
Showing 1 – 5 of 5 results
Botany
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Learn from UNE's expert botanists and develop the critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills to secure your role in the rapidly changing world of scientific research; a field set to see vast changes as technology advances and…

Learn from UNE's expert botanists and develop the critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills to secure your role in the rapidly changing world of scientific research; a field set to see vast changes as technology advances and the climate crisis continues.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Major Undergraduate
Bachelor of Zoology Minor Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science with Honours Major Bachelor Honours
Master of Scientific Studies Major Postgraduate
Graduate Diploma in Science Major Postgraduate
Graduate Certificate in Science Major Postgraduate
Environmental Science
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Environmental scientists are highly sought after to develop strategies for growing issues such as climate change and depletion of natural resources. Learn from UNE's industry experts and build your research, critical analysis, collaboration and…

Environmental scientists are highly sought after to develop strategies for growing issues such as climate change and depletion of natural resources. Learn from UNE's industry experts and build your research, critical analysis, collaboration and communication skills.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Environmental Science Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Laws Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science with Honours Major Bachelor Honours
Master of Environmental Science and Management Specialist Course Postgraduate
Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science Specialist Course Postgraduate
Diploma in Earth and Environmental Science Specialist Course Undergraduate
Master of Environmental Science (Research) Specialist Course Postgraduate Research
Science
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
Enhance your critical thinking, problem-solving and research skills to open doors to science-related careers. The experts at UNE will prepare you for success in career paths as diverse as research, health care, education, government and various…

Enhance your critical thinking, problem-solving and research skills to open doors to science-related careers. The experts at UNE will prepare you for success in career paths as diverse as research, health care, education, government and various private industries.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Scientific Studies Specialist Course Undergraduate
Bachelor of Science with Honours Specialist Course Bachelor Honours
Master of Scientific Studies Specialist Course Postgraduate
Graduate Diploma in Science Specialist Course Postgraduate
Graduate Certificate in Science Specialist Course Postgraduate
Diploma in Science Specialist Course Undergraduate
Master of Science Specialist Course Postgraduate Research
Vegetation and Landscapes
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course
In a rapidly changing global environment, studying vegetation, landscapes and delicate ecosystems is critical. Using UNE’s advanced laboratories and technology, develop the skills to understand the natural world and graduate ready for a sustainable…

In a rapidly changing global environment, studying vegetation, landscapes and delicate ecosystems is critical. Using UNE’s advanced laboratories and technology, develop the skills to understand the natural world and graduate ready for a sustainable career that contributes to science.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Environmental Science Major Undergraduate
Vegetation Management
  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor Honours
  • Postgraduate
  • Major
  • Minor
  • Specialisation
  • Teaching Area
  • Specialist Course

Build expertise in field botany, plant ecology, and biosecurity with UNE. Gain the skills to address invasive species, ecosystem change, and sustainable land management as technology and climate reshape vegetation management practices.

Courses Type Level of Study
Bachelor of Environmental Science and Master of Natural Resource Management Minor Undergraduate
  • 1

Why study with us?

5 stars
For Overall Experience and Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024
Australian Universities
No. 1
For Undergraduate Student Support
Good Universities Guide 2024
Public NSW Universities
No. 1
For Postgraduate Student Experience
QILT Student Experience Survey
NSW Universities

Careers in Botany and Plant Science

As the importance of sustainable practices and environmental stewardship increases, the demand for professionals with expertise in plant science and botany is on the rise. UNE will help you to develop the skillset needed to secure positions in fields such as agriculture, horticulture, environmental management, conservation and biotechnology, among others.

  • Botanist
    Research plant genetics, morphology, physiology and ecology and develop new applications for plant-based products.
  • Plant biotechnologist
    Conduct research and develop new methods to improve plant growth, yield and resistance to diseases and pests.
  • Horticulturist
    Cultivate and manage gardens, parks, and other outdoor spaces.
  • Plant ecologist
    Study plant populations, communities and ecosystems, and their relationships with other organisms and the environment.
  • Plant breeder
    Develop new plant varieties with desired traits, such as improved yield, disease resistance or nutritional value.
  • Agronomist
    Develop and implement strategies for sustainable crop management, including crop selection, soil management and pest control.
  • Land rehabilitation specialist
    Restore and rehabilitate degraded land, using native plant species to improve soil health and prevent erosion.
  • Plant pathologist
    Study the causes and effects of plant diseases and develop methods for their control and prevention.

Excellence in experience, equity and employability

2026 Overall Experience

Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.

Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
2026 Social Equality

Five Stars for
Social Equity

UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.

Good Universities Guide 2026
2026 Graduate Employment

Five Stars for
Graduate Employment

UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.

Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
2026 Diamond-Rated Digital Learning

Diamond-Rated Digital Learning

UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.

ASCILITE TELAS 2025

What happens next?

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1. Decide on your course

Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.

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2. Apply

2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!

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3. Receive an offer, enrol and start studying

Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.