Botany Rhodes University

Overview

Key features

Plants are the largest component of most ecosystems, and all life on earth depends on plants as a source of energy. Plants also play a crucial role in fixing carbon dioxide and counter-acting the effects of climate change. 

The importance of biodiversity and functional ecosystems is increasingly recognised, but at the same time ecosystems are under increasing threat from human activities. 

A degree in Botany from Rhodes University equips you with a range of skills which can be applied in many different careers, from research to teaching, to applied fields. Research careers include working for universities, the National Botanical Institute, the Agricultural Research Council and other research institutes. 

Botanical expertise is required in resource management, nature conservation, government departments like Water Affairs, environmental consulting, policy making and rural development. People with Botany degrees have also moved into careers such as science publishing and research for the private sector. They were able to do so because their Botany degree equipped them with widely applicable skills in independent research, data analysis, report writing and verbal communication.