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Plant and Soil Science

Degree Focus

Scientists on the forefront of innovation continue to identify new ways that plants contribute to modern science. Students who wish to join those front lines may pursue an education in plant science—where they will develop knowledge of plant biology and physiology, development and evolution, biotechnology, crop production, processing and environmental management. Program graduates will have countless opportunities to use their specialized expertise toward discovery and innovation of all kinds—from crop management, to laboratories, alternative energy and/or medicinal research.

Degree Focus

Scientists on the forefront of innovation continue to identify new ways that plants contribute to modern science. Students who wish to join those front lines may pursue an education in plant science—where they will develop knowledge of plant biology and physiology, development and evolution, biotechnology, crop production, processing and environmental management. Program graduates will have countless opportunities to use their specialized expertise toward discovery and innovation of all kinds—from crop management, to laboratories, alternative energy and/or medicinal research.

Sample Courseload

Biochemistry,Biology,Chemistry,Plant Anatomy,Plant Biology,Plant Ecology,Soil Science,Statistics,Writing and Communication

Additional Degrees & Concentrations

(BS) - Agronomy degree programs focus on developing students’ understanding of science as it relates to soil management and crop production. Coursework will examine cropping systems, business, marketing, soil conservation, plant breeding, international trade and food security.

(BS/Minor/Assoc) - Horticulture science degree programs center around the production, marketing and management of plants, flowers, fruits and vegetables. Students pursuing this degree will develop their foundational knowledge of biology, chemistry, ecology, engineering, communications and business while specializing in courses related to landscaping, plant propagation, soil science and turf culture.

(BS) - Plant genetics, breeding and biotechnology programs prepare students to apply knowledge in biotechnology and genetic engineering to crop growth and development. Students pursuing this degree can expect to develop knowledge in genetics, plant breeding, crop production practices, sustainability and research.

(BS/Minor/Assoc) - Crop science degree programs focus on both the management and advancement of plants grown for food, fiber and/or energy. Coursework will include topics related to biotechnology, soil science, genetics, weather and climate, crop production, plant physiology, plant breeding and ecology.

(Minor) - Urban forestry degree programs focus on the care and maintenance of trees in urban environments. Students will develop their aptitude through coursework in arboricultural practices, urban forest issues, soil science, environmental science and more. Graduates can expect to have opportunities within a variety of different roles such as a commercial arborist, municipal and utility forester, environmental policy consultant, city planner, researcher or educator.

Offering This Degree

Ancilla College

Hanover College

Ivy Tech Community College

Purdue University

FA-Degrees-Plant-Soil

Meet Corrine

B.S. Crop Science

For a child who despised gardening as a kid, Corinne's path to crop science was certainly unexpected. But through conversation and guidance from a professor, she found it to be the right fit for her. Corinne embraces her college experience and is involved in the All-American Marching Band at Purdue.
“I wish I had something like Field Atlas as a freshman in college.”
Corrine
Crop Science Major
"My passion lies in building a relationship with a farmer."
Heidi
Crop Science Minor
"Everyone wants to make a difference and agbioscience is the place to do it."a
Jill
Agronomy Major

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