Disciplines in the Department of Plant and Wildlife Sciences focus on four of the great dilemmas facing mankind in the twenty-first century: harnessing biological technology to meet the needs of an expanding human population in the developing world; assessing and minimizing the impact of human activities on an increasingly vulnerable environment; management and conservation of wildlife and wildlands; and managing landscapes to meet increasing water, space, and other resource limitations while enhancing the aesthetic quality of urban environments. Students who major in Genetics, Genomics and Biotechnology choose to follow one of four available course tracks depending on individual interest. Each track includes a comprehensive core of courses in genetics, biology and chemistry along with more specialized offerings.Career Opportunities - The discipline of genetics and biotechnology focuses on applications of molecular biology and genomics to solve problems related to health, crop and animal production, forensics, and environmental remediation. This field holds tremendous promise for meeting food sustainability needs in the developing world, delivering medical treatments customized to each patient's genomic makeup, and reducing human impacts upon the environment. The major program educates students in scientific principles and current biotechniques through a combination of classroom instruction and mentored laboratory experience on original research projects with faculty and graduate students. Graduates are prepared for immediate employment in the biotechnology industry or for graduate study in biotechnology, molecular genetics, or the health professions. An optional, integrated track in biotechnology business affords students the option of obtaining a management minor through the Marriott School of Management in preparation for management careers in life sciences industries or for law school and subsequent careers as biological patent attorneys.Students who major in Genetics, Genomics & Biotechnology choose to follow a complete science based track or one that combines science and business training. Each track includes a comprehensive core of courses in genetics, biology and chemistry along with more specialized offerings.