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Study Plants

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  5. Study Plants

Explore the dominant life form.

Plants feed us, heal us, clothe us. They are fundamental to the planet’s health and function. How they are used can be controversial, impactful and life changing. As the world seeks to solve more and more environmental issues through plant innovation, the career possibilities are vast and often high paying. If you like science, nature, innovation, problem solving and doing things a bit differently, plant studies is a great fit for you.

Why study plants at U of G?

The University of Guelph is internationally known for its research, innovation and expertise when it comes to plants. In fact, U of G is home to the largest concentration of plant scientists in Canada. You can see also our focus on plants in how our beautiful campus is maintained, including the gorgeous Arboretum!

Ask a program question
Admission Information
7 programs
focused on plants
Co-op available
for most programs
17 research centres
focused on plant science
5000 m2
of indoor plant growth facilities on campus

Choose Your Program:

Degree Options

Fields + Soil | Solve problems in food production and access through agronomy, soil science and genetics. Crop Science is a major of the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.

Agriculture + Crops | Choose your own adventure by selecting exactly what plant production courses you want to take. Honours Agriculture is a major of the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.

Flowers + Food | Learn the science behind producing plants in unique settings (greenhouses, growth chambers, vertical gardens), at all scales, and for different markets. Horticulture is a major of the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.

Biology + Breeding | Explore the intricacies of plant diversity, growth and development, plant-environment interactions and advances in molecular biology. Plant Science is a major of the Bachelor of Science.

Diploma Options

Learn how science, technology and business come together to enhance crop production. The 2-year Associate Diploma in Agriculture is offered by our Ridgetown Campus.

Develop your skills in greenhouse production and nursery operations. The 2-year Associate Diploma in Horticulture is offered by our Ridgetown Campus.

Combine scientific study with business and hands-on learning in Canada’s best turfgrass management program. The 2-year Associate Diploma in Turfgrass Management is offered at the Guelph campus and features small class sizes!

What Students Have to Say

Kelly smiling in dress shirt standing in front of green corn field

There are numerous events throughout the year that allow you to meet new people and develop your professional relationship network. I’ve also had the opportunity to meet many industry professionals during guest lectures that have inspired me and guided me on my career path.
Kelly Ruigrok, Undergraduate StudentCrop ScienceHear more from Kelly
Carl Shin

The small class sizes are by far my favourite part. My class is a tight-knit group already, and we get to know our instructors well. The program also blends in hands-on learning coupled with turfgrass management theories, so we understand both sides.
Carl ShinTurfgrass ManagementHear more from Carl
Priscilla in glasses and suit jacket smiles

I really like that the horticultural program includes a lot of real-life applications of things we learn in class. I don’t just learn theoretical knowledge in class, but I have labs where I can practice plant propagation and management under the supervision of an expert.

Priscilla Dyck, Undergraduate StudentHorticultureHear more from Priscilla
Katie in white polo shirt smiles

I enjoy being taught by professors that worked in the industry prior to teaching. They bring a lot of knowledge and experience to the program. I find it’s a very hands-on, discussion-based and inclusive program.
Katie GilesTurfgrass Management Hear more from Katie
The University of Guelph is well known for their agriculture and plant science programs so coming here was a very easy decision... I love the variety of options that a plant science major offers, I could take classes ranging anywhere from biotechnology to crop related sciences to environmental sciences.
Vanessa VongnhayPlant Science, Student
Hear more from Vanessa
My favorite class by far has to be the field entomology class I took this summer. I took the opportunity to go to Costa Rica with a group of people who also love insects, and spent my days in the jungle looking for cool bugs.
Owen HebbPlant Science, Alumni

Learn more about the Ontario Agricultural College of the University of Guelph.

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About Us

The Ontario Agricultural College is a global leader of scientific knowledge and applied learning that aims to tackle complex challenges facing our world.
We are founded in agriculture and connected to all things related to food, animals, communities and the environment.

Undergraduate Programs

Graduate Programs

Associate Diploma Programs

Contact Us

OAC Dean's Office
Johnston Hall, University of Guelph
50 Stone Road East
Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
oacnews@uoguelph.ca