Plant Science
Plant Science
Associate in Science Degree (A.S.)
Program Website
Math, Science, and
Health Professions Division

609.570.3383

 

Continuing Studies Certificate Prep Courses

Veterinary Assistant Certificate Program Phlebotomy EKG Cardiac Technician General Course and Test Preparation Pharmacy Technician Patient Care Technician Medical Billing and Coding Global Sterilization MLA (From Our Credited Certs Programs) MOA (From Our Credited Certs Programs)

The Plant Science program prepares students for the junior year of study at a college or university offering such fields as horticulture, botany, conservation, environmental science, ecology, and forestry. Horticulture students who plan to pursue a baccalaureate degree should consider this alternative.

Facilities to support the program include well-equipped biology and chemistry laboratories, a modern greenhouse complex, and an extensive woody plants collection throughout the 292-acre West Windsor Campus. Occasional field trips to Longwood Gardens, the New Jersey Pine Barrens, Marquand Park, and elsewhere offer additional opportunities for specialized study of plant specimens.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES
  • Explain the structures and processes related to plant growth and function;
  • Identify common insects, diseases, and woody plants found in our region;
  • Understand key environmental issues as they relate locally, nationally, and globally;
  • Exhibit proficiency in the laboratory and in the field by using standard equipment and measurement and observation techniques that allow one to gather, analyze, and interpret qualitative and quantitative data;
  • Transfer and successfully pursue a baccalaureate degree in a related field.

Admission to the Plant Science program requires a high school diploma or its equivalent with at least one year of science (biology or chemistry) and two years of algebra.

SEE ALSO:
Biology degree program
Ornamental Horticulture degree program
Ornamental Horticulture certificate program

DEGREE CURRICULUM
2023-2024 Academic Year
 earlier / Archive
PLANT.SCI.AS
CIP 011101

The course sequence below represents a recommended example of how this degree program can be completed in two years, presuming a Fall Term start and satisfaction of all Developmental Studies (foundation courses) requirements and prerequisites. Actual approaches toward completion depend on each student's anticipated transfer institution, career objectives, or other individual circumstances.

Students are encouraged to meet regularly with an academic advisor or Success Coach to consider options, establish plans, and monitor progress.

Code Course (lecture/lab hours) Credits
To Do This Semester
FIRST SEMESTER
BIO 101 General Biology I (3/3) 4

✔ Meet with your faculty advisor to complete an academic plan. Make sure you are aware of any course prerequisites you may need to take, and how long it will take to complete your degree.

✔ Use your online tools: Check your MercerMail daily, utilize features of Office 365, and get to know Student Planning.

✔ Take advantage of Learning Centers or Online Tutoring to support your studies and assignments.

ENG 101 English Composition I (3/0) 3
OHT 101 Plant Science (2/2) 3
  —    — Humanities general education elective 3
  —    — Social Science general education elective





3
SECOND SEMESTER
BIO 102 General Biology II (3/3) 4

✔ Transitioning to college can be challenging. Meet with your Success Coach for guidance and support.

✔ Apply for financial aid by May 1.

✔ Contact professors with questions and use their office hours to develop a connection.

✔ Apply for Continuing Student scholarships at www.mccc.edu/m-scholarships.

✔ Begin attending college transfer events and visit campuses. Be sure to visit the Transfer Services and Career Services offices to get to know how the transfer process works and to explore career options.

✔ Plan for how you will complete transfer applications while finishing your classes.

CMN 111 Speech: Human Communication (3/0)  
  OR 3
CMN 112 Public Speaking (3/0)  
ENG 102 English Composition II (3/0) 3
MAT 146 Pre-Calculus (4/0)











4
THIRD SEMESTER
BIO 203 Entomology (3/3) 4

✔ Keep in contact with each professor and your faculty advisor. Make sure you are on track to graduate.

✔ Complete your applications to desired transfer institutions.

✔ Develop team and leadership skills by getting involved in activities and clubs.

✔ Manage your stress! Take advantage of the MCCC pool, Fitness Center, free yoga and Zumba. Reach out for counseling or other support if you need it. Your Success Coach can connect you with resources.

BIO 204 Ecology (3/3) 4
CHE 101 General Chemistry I (3/3) 4
OHT 204 Plant Diseases (2/2)








3
FOURTH SEMESTER
BIO 202 Woody Plants (3/3) 4

✔ Apply for financial aid by May 1.

✔ Talk to your faculty advisor and the Transfer office for advice on how to successfully transition to a new school.

✔ Apply for Graduating Student scholarships at www.mccc.edu/m-scholarships.

CHE 102 General Chemistry II (3/3) 4
OHT 108 Soil and Plant Nutrition (3/3) 4
  —    — Social Science or Humanities general education elective


3
  60  

NOTE: Plant Science majors must earn a minimum grade of C in all BIO and OHT courses.