Applied Plant Ecology
Explore the natural world. Learn how ecosystems function. Protect wild places and threatened species. These are just a few of the opportunities available to you when you choose a major in Applied Plant Ecology in the Plant Sciences Department at the University of Saskatchewan.
What is Applied Plant Ecology?
Plants are the keystone of all natural and managed ecosystems. Forestry industries, human and livestock health, and agriculture well being all depend on healthy plant communities and ecosystems. Plant Ecologists study the interactions among plants, between plants and the environment, and between soils, plants and animals. This research is applied to maintain or improve the environment and the health of ecosystems. In the Applied Plant Ecology major, students will learn how to apply ecological principles to ecosystems such as rangelands, forests, wetlands, and croplands for sustainable production.
The U of S Advantage
The U of S provides a learning environment with an innovative, hands-on approach to education, offered in world-class teaching facilities. Some students and professors from the Department work at the Canadian Light Source using synchrotron radiation to investigate the chemical species of nitrogen and phosphorus present in soils. Others use stable isotopes to examine nutrient cycling in organic farming systems or greenhouse gas emissions. In this unique environment students will learn from distinguished faculty, some of whom are teacher-scholars conducting world-class research and others who are teacher practitioners running their own agribusiness part-time.
The College of Agriculture and Bioresources offers a setting that combines the advantages of a full-scale university with the benefits of a small, specialized program. The small upper-year class sizes and supportive atmosphere allow students to get to know their instructors and fellow students and to build a network of personal and business contacts. Students have numerous opportunities to transfer the theory beyond the classroom; most courses include hands on components such as field trips and class projects that tackle real world issues.
First year students can sign up for a Learning Community (LC) and be pre-registered in three of your classes. LCs are a great way to meet people with similar interests, get advice from student leaders who know the ropes, and make a smoother transition to the University of Saskatchewan.
During their studies, students can take advantage of a number of scholarships and bursaries available exclusively to students in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources. Six $10,000 scholarships are awarded to students entering from high school, and one scholarship of up to $7,500 to a student transferring from another institution. Moreover, there is an additional $44,000 in scholarships awarded as entrance scholarships. In excess of $300,000 is awarded annually to undergraduate students enrolled in Agriculture and Bioresources.
Choose Your Program
After a first year of general courses, students have the option of specializing in Applied Plant Ecology. Beginning in their second year, students take a concentration of courses related to their major, plus a variety of required and elective courses. Students can also enhance their studies by participating in study abroad options or by working as summer students in the department.
Students may also complete a program minor in a related area, such as environmental science, soil science, or agribusiness. Minors are a great way to broaden a student’s career options.
Career Opportunities
A growing demand for scientists and professionals equipped to deal with environmental and natural resource management issues means a wide variety of career choices for graduates specializing in Applied Plant Ecology. There is a steady demand for environmental scientists who have specialized in plant ecology in industry, universities, government agencies, and not-for-profit organizations.
Applied Plant Ecology majors often pursue careers as environmental scientists responsible for managing rangelands, forests, wetlands, and conservation areas. Frequent employers include conservation agencies, national and provincial parks and reserves, agricultural and environmental agencies, as well as environmental consulting firms.
A Stepping Stone. . .
A B.S.A. degree in Applied Plant Ecology provides a very useful and marketable background for students seeking to enter graduate studies in fields including ecology, conservation biology, restoration ecology, and environmental science. Graduates are also prepared to enter professional fields such as environmental law and agrology.
Earning a Master of Science degree in Applied Plant Ecology takes an average of two years. This advanced training provides a significant advantage in career opportunities. Master’s graduates can choose to pursue a Ph.D., leading to careers as research scientists and faculty members at universities.
Outstanding Students & Faculty
- Working in ecosystems as diverse as prairie grasslands and arctic tundra, Professor Eric Lamb seeks to answer practical questions on how to manage wildlands and species at risk, including how plant biodiversity relates to the functioning of ecosystems.
- Professor Yuguang Bai and his team examine grassland and forest ecosystems, focusing on vegetation dynamics, reclamation, plant regeneration, and climate change.
- Encouraging students to understand fire ecology, effects of grazing on ecosystems, and management issues, Professor Jim Romo focuses on conserving natural grasslands.
Getting Involved!
One of the best ways to make the most of your college career is to get involved—and the Agriculture Students’ Association (ASA) is just the way to do it! The ASA is one of the most active and spirited student bodies on campus with activities including everything from debates, to speaker nights, professional development days, Telemiracle fundraisers, and social nights with professors.
In addition, option clubs such as the Horticulture, Range Management, and Renewable Resource Management clubs, as well as the Environmental Studies Students' Association offer students incredible opportunities to share their interests, plan activities beyond the classroom, and have fun!
Contact US!
We would like to hear from you! For more information about this program and the University of Saskatchewan, including course requirements and program details, contact:
Recruitment & Admissions
University of Saskatchewan
105 Administration Place
Saskatoon SK S7N 5A2
Canada
Tel: 306-966-5788
E-mail: admission@usask.ca
Website: explore.usask.ca
Admission Requirements
The following is a list of high school subjects required for admission. Please select the province/territory where you completed high school.
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