Programme

Science / Botany

Overview

Degree awarded:
  • M.E.B
  • M.Phil
  • M.Phil/Ph.D
  • M.Sc
  • Ph.D
Programmes:
  • Master of Science in Botany (Economic Botany)
  • Master of Science in Botany (Ethnobotany)
  • Master of Science in Botany (Plant Genetics and Molecular Biology)
  • Master of Science in Botany (Plant Taxonomy and Biosystematics)
  • Master of Science in Botany (Mycology and Fungi Biotechnology)
  • Master of Science in Botany (Lower Green Plants and Environmental Pollution Monitoring)
  • Master of Science in Botany (Palynology)
  • Master of Science in Botany (Plant Pathology)
  • Master of Science in Botany (Plant Physiology and Biochemistry)
Field of interest:
  • Ecology
  • Economic Botany
  • Ethnobotany
  • Lower Green Plants
  • Lower Green Plants and Environmental Pollution Monitoring
  • Lower Green Plants/Environmental Pollution Monitoring
  • Mycology and Fungal Biotechnology
  • Mycology/Fungal Biotechnology
  • Not Applicable
  • Palynology
  • Plant Anatomy
  • Plant Ecology
  • Plant Genetics and Molecular Biology
  • Plant Pathology
  • Plant Pathology including
  • Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
  • Plant Taxonomy and Biosystematics
  • Plant Taxonomy/Biosystematics
Entry requirements:

    General Regulations Governing Admission to Higher Degree Programmes

    • Candidates for admission to higher degree programmes shall normally be graduates of the University of Ibadan or other Universities/Institutions recognised by the Senate. Admission shall be made by the Postgraduate College on the recommendation of the appropriate Faculty Postgraduate Committee.
    • Candidates without any previous higher degrees in the relevant discipline may be admitted only to either the Degree of Master or the Professional Degree of Master.
    • Candidates with recognised “Research Higher” Degree in the relevant discipline may be admitted to the M.Phil or Ph.D. degree programmes as appropriate, on the recommendation of the appropriate Faculty Postgraduate Committee.
    • A candidate admitted to the degree of Master of University of Ibadan who obtained a weighted average mark of 55.0 – 59.9%, or a CGPA of between 4.0 and 4.9 may be offered provisional admission to the M.Phil./Ph.D programmes. Such candidates shall be assessed within three semesters of full time and four semesters of part time registration for the M.Phil/Ph.D to Ph.D conversion. This shall also apply to students who graduated from other universities    

    SPECIAL WAIVER FOR MATURED APPLICANTS

    • All University of Ibadan graduates should be admitted to Postgraduate programme with the ordinary level criteria existing at the time their first admission. Candidate who did not fulfill the requirements as at the time of their admission are not eligible for consideration.
    • Special consideration may be given to candidates, who obtained their first degree not less than 20 years from the time of seeking admission to any postgraduate programmes. Such candidates must have been found to possess special skills or abilities and professionally or academically engaged during the period of 20 years.  
How to apply:
Apply online

Our postgraduate degree program in Botany provides students with an advanced understanding of plant biology, ecology, taxonomy, and conservation. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical training to explore the diversity, structure, function, and evolution of plants. Here is an overview of the key components typically covered in a postgraduate degree program in Botany:

Plant Diversity and Systematics:

  • In-depth study of plant classification, taxonomy, and nomenclature.
  • Exploration of plant diversity across different ecosystems and geographical regions.
  • Identification and characterization of plant species using taxonomic keys and advanced techniques.

Plant Anatomy and Morphology:

  • Detailed examination of the internal structure and external features of plants.
  • Study of plant tissues, organs, and their adaptations to different environments.
  • Understanding plant growth, development, and reproduction.

Plant Physiology:

  • Analysis of plant functions and processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and transpiration.
  • Study of plant hormones, nutrient uptake and assimilation, and responses to environmental stimuli.
  • Exploration of plant-microbe interactions and symbiotic relationships.

Plant Ecology:

  • Investigation of the interactions between plants and their environment.
  • Study of community ecology, population dynamics, and plant distribution patterns.
  • Understanding ecosystem processes, nutrient cycling, and the impact of human activities on plant communities.

Plant Genetics and Biotechnology:

  • Examination of plant genetics, inheritance patterns, and genetic diversity.
  • Study of molecular biology techniques used in plant research and biotechnology applications.
  • Exploration of genetic engineering, plant breeding, and crop improvement strategies.

Plant Evolution and Phylogenetics:

  • Analysis of plant evolution, including the origin and diversification of plant groups.
  • Study of evolutionary processes, phylogenetic reconstruction, and molecular phylogenetics.
  • Understanding the relationships between different plant taxa and their evolutionary history.

Plant Pathology:

  • Investigation of plant diseases, their causes, and management strategies.
  • Study of plant pathogens, host-pathogen interactions, and disease diagnosis.
  • Exploration of plant disease epidemiology and strategies for disease prevention and control.

Plant Conservation and Biodiversity:

  • Examination of the principles and practices of plant conservation.
  • Study of the importance of biodiversity, threats to plant species, and conservation strategies.
  • Understanding the role of botanical gardens, seed banks, and ex situ conservation methods.

Ethnobotany and Medicinal Plants:

  • Exploration of the traditional uses of plants by different cultures.
  • Study of medicinal plants, natural products, and their potential applications in healthcare.
  • Understanding the sustainable use of plant resources and the conservation of traditional knowledge.

Research Methods and Dissertation

  • Training in research methodologies and experimental design in botany.
  • Conducting independent research under the supervision of a faculty advisor and completing a research dissertation.

Few/Some of the Course Content

BOT 760Instrumentation Techniques in Plant Physiology
CPE 701Quantitative Biology
BOT 732Physiological Plant Ecology
BOT 741Biosystematics
BOT 740Herbarium Techneques Principles of Taxonomy
BOT 731Ecosystems
BOT 730Autecological Investigations
BOT 702Literature Review and Seminar
BOT 701Research Project
BOT 701Research Project
BOT 702Literature Review and Seminar
BOT 741Biosystematics
MEB 771Ethnobotany II (Medicinal Plants)
CPE 701Quantitative Biology
MEB 763Mushroom Production
CPE 702Instrumentation and Research Techniques
PCG 702Raw Materials for Crude Drug Production
BOT 740Herbarium Techniques Principles of Taxonomy
BOT 701Research Project
MEB 772Ethnobotany II (Useful Plants other than Medicinal)
BOT 701Research Project
BOT 702Literature Review and Seminar
BOT 741Biosystematics
MEB 771Ethnobotany II (Medicinal Plants)
CPE 701Quantitative Biology
MEB 763Mushroom Production
CPE 702Instrumentation and Research Techniques
PCG 702Raw Materials for Crude Drug Production

Entry Requirement

Facilities

Career Path

A postgraduate degree in Botany can lead to a variety of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Graduates with a specialization in Botany can find employment in fields such as research, conservation, education, agriculture, environmental consulting, and more. Here are some common career paths for individuals with a postgraduate degree in Botany:

Research Scientist:

  • Conduct research in academic institutions, botanical gardens, or research organizations.
  • Investigate plant physiology, ecology, genetics, or biodiversity, and contribute to scientific advancements.

Plant Taxonomist:

  • Identify, classify, and categorize plant species for research, conservation, or regulatory purposes.
  • Work in botanical gardens, herbariums, museums, or government agencies.

Ecologist:

  • Study plant interactions with their environment and contribute to ecosystem conservation and management.
  • Work in environmental consulting firms, government agencies, or research organizations.

Conservation Scientist:

  • Develop and implement strategies for the preservation and restoration of plant species and habitats.
  • Work in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or environmental consulting firms.

Environmental Consultant:

  • Assess and monitor the impact of human activities on plant communities and ecosystems.
  • Provide expertise and recommendations for sustainable land use, conservation, or environmental planning.

Plant Geneticist:

  • Conduct research on plant genetics, breeding, and crop improvement.
  • Work in agricultural research institutions, seed companies, or biotechnology companies.

Botanical Illustrator:

  • Combine artistic skills with botanical knowledge to create illustrations and visual representations of plants.
  • Work in botanical gardens, museums, publishing companies, or educational institutions.

Environmental Educator:

  • Teach and educate the public about plant biology, conservation, and environmental sustainability.
  • Work in schools, museums, botanical gardens, or environmental education centers.

Agricultural Scientist:

  • Conduct research and development in plant physiology, crop production, or pest management.
  • Work in agricultural research institutions, seed companies, or government agencies.

Horticulturist:

  • Cultivate and manage plants in controlled environments, such as botanical gardens, nurseries, or landscaping firms.
  • Develop expertise in plant propagation, cultivation techniques, and garden design.

Plant Breeder:

  • Develop new plant varieties with desirable traits through selective breeding or genetic modification.
  • Work in agricultural research institutions, seed companies, or biotechnology companies.

Park Ranger/Naturalist:

  • Manage and interpret natural areas, parks, or botanical gardens.
  • Conduct educational programs, lead tours, and contribute to conservation efforts.

Science Writer/Communicator:

  • Communicate scientific knowledge and research findings through writing, media, or outreach activities.
  • Work as a science journalist, science communicator, or content creator.

Government Positions:

  • Work in government agencies responsible for agriculture, forestry, environmental regulation, or conservation.
  • Contribute to policy development, land management, or environmental protection initiatives.

Entrepreneurship:

  • Start a botanical or horticultural business, such as a nursery, landscaping company, or plant-based products venture.
  • Offer specialized services or products related to plants, gardening, or botanical conservation.

The field of botany offers diverse opportunities, and graduates can specialize further within specific areas based on their interests and expertise. Continuous learning, networking, and staying updated with current research and technologies can enhance career prospects in this field...

Supervisor(s)

Fees

Get estimated fee for this programme using this Link

Apply now