Plant Genetics: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Plant genetics is a dynamic field dedicated to understanding the hereditary mechanisms that govern multicellular plants and fungi. This discipline bridges fundamental biological inquiry with practical applications across agriculture, environmental science, medicine, and biotechnology, driving innovation through advanced genetic research.
- Molecular genetics: Explores the structure, function, and inheritance of genes at the molecular level, focusing on how genetic information is encoded and transmitted.
- Gene expression and regulation: Investigates the processes by which genes are activated or suppressed in response to internal and external signals, shaping plant development and adaptation.
- Genomics: Involves the comprehensive analysis of entire plant and fungal genomes to identify genetic variations, functional elements, and evolutionary patterns.
- Epigenetic phenomena: Studies heritable changes in gene activity that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence, including DNA methylation and histone modification.
- DNA recombination and repair: Examines mechanisms that maintain genomic integrity through the accurate repair of DNA damage and the generation of genetic diversity.
- Genetic interactions: Analyzes how genes influence one another across microbial and complex multicellular systems, revealing networks that govern biological functions.
- Molecular evolution: Traces the genetic changes that have occurred over time, providing insights into the origins and diversification of plant and fungal species.
Plant Genetics Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Plant Genetics Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Plant Genetics degrees, including Natural Sciences Managers, Biological Scientists, All Other and Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 213,830 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers 11-9121 | $161,180 | $79,830 - $239,200 | 100,870 | $77.49 |
| Biological Scientists, All Other 19-1029 | $93,330 | $54,500 - $159,780 | 59,710 | $44.87 |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1042 | $83,460 | $50,760 - $169,560 | 53,250 | N/A |
Plant Genetics Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $75,280 in Louisiana to $147,260 in California—a 96% difference. The highest-paying states include California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 213,830 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Plant Genetics by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 3 institutions offering Plant Genetics programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Plant Genetics is found at University of Wisconsin-Madison (12 graduates), Michigan State University (MSU) (10 graduates), and Purdue University (PU), Main Campus (10 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 32 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Wisconsin-Madison |
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
12 | Madison, Wisconsin | Public | wisc.edu |
| Michigan State University (MSU) |
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
10 | East Lansing, Michigan | Public | msu.edu |
| Purdue University (PU) |
Bachelor's
|
10 | West Lafayette, Indiana | Public | purdue.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Plant Genetics programs
How much can I earn with a Plant Genetics degree?
Salaries for Plant Genetics graduates vary by role and location. Natural Sciences Managers earn a median of $161,180 annually, while Biological Scientists, All Other earn around $93,330. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $147,260 compared to $75,280 in Louisiana. Approximately 213,830 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Plant Genetics programs?
Currently 3 accredited institutions offer Plant Genetics degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of Wisconsin-Madison (12 graduates), Michigan State University (MSU) (10 graduates), and Purdue University (PU), Main Campus (10 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Plant Genetics growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 21 in 2010 to 32 in 2023-24. This represents a 52% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Plant Genetics degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Natural Sciences Managers, Biological Scientists, All Other, and Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary. Related occupations employ approximately 213,830 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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