Many positions require a Master s or Doctor s degree. A Ph.D. is required for most teaching and research positions in colleges and universities. The courses you select will vary depending on the curriculum of the college you attend and your own interests. To be best prepared for the job market, you should get a broad general education in language, arts, humanities and the social sciences in addition to specializing in plant biology. You should know how to use a computer.
Some schools recommend, or require, a foreign language.
This is especially important if you hope to work in the tropics. If possible, you should arrange to do an undergraduate research project under one of your professors. This experience will help you decide which area or areas of botany you like best. It will also give you valuable insight into how science works. Research experience will also be very helpful should you decide to pursue graduate work.