How to Become a Botanist

A botanist studies plant life and the interaction of plants with the environment. Although a Ph.D. is necessary for university teaching or independent research positions, jobs as botanical lab technicians or assistants are open to individuals with bachelor's degrees.

Things You'll Need

• Career Counseling
• Computers
• Online Career Search

Instructions

1. Take biology and math electives in high school and participate in science fairs, if possible. Working part-time at a plant nursery can also be excellent preparation for college botany courses.

2. Select your college carefully. Some grant biology degrees with a specialization in botany, whereas others offer degrees in botany. Interview professors at several universities to see if their schools and programs match your career goals.

3. Peruse the Botanical Society of America Web site (see botany.org). If offers a vast amount of information and worldwide links related to the field.

4. Participate in your professor's research work. You will obtain excellent experience and get an idea of what his or her specialty is really about.

5. Choose the school for your advanced degree based on your desired specialty. Go to the Graduate School Programs Web site (see gradschools.com) for a list of universities that offer botany programs.

6. Ask your advisor early in the school year about part-time or summer internships.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for internships or entry-level jobs at museums, parks and botanical gardens.

• Realize that you will have to receive a master's degree to advance in this field.