Crop and Soil Sciences
formally Agronomy and SoilS Degree
Crop science incorporates the basic sciences (such as biology, chemistry, physics, geology and microbiology) into an applied science, which is the foundation for most agriculture. Soil science involves issues related to crop production and also to environmental aspects of soil management. Our department offers four curriculum options in crop and soil sciences to help tailor your classes to fit specific interests. With our crop and soil science program, you will have the deep scientific knowledge and skills for a successful academic and professional future in agriculture.
PRODUCTION
In the production option, you’ll study food, feed, fiber, oil, forage and bioenergy crop production. You’ll prepare for a variety of careers with farm operations, farm-advisory agencies, agri-life companies, extension systems, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and more.
TURF MANAGEMENT
This option focuses on turf production and maintenance for golf courses, sports fields, home lawns and business turf. This academically rigorous option will also prepare you for graduate school or careers in cooperative extension, sales or research.
SCIENCE
The science option will provide you with a scientific base in soil morphology, chemistry and microbiology. You’ll be prepared for a research career with agri-life corporations or with state or federal agricultural research agencies. Most students choosing the science option intend to pursue graduate degrees.
SOIL, WATER AND LAND USE
Soil and related resources are the foundation for land use planning and management in both rural and urban settings, and this option is designed to provide the academic background for pursuing a career in soil science. You’ll prepare for a career in consulting, state and federal regulation or research.
Meet the professors who will teach you the science, policy, and social issues in your field of study.
Job Searches
| AU CAREER CENTER |
| AG CAREERS |
| USA jobs |
Government Agencies
Crop & Soil Science News Sources
| NPR: Food | NPR: Science Friday Podcasts |
| ASA: News | Agriculture.com |
| Science Daily | AGWEB |
Crop, Soil & Environmental Science Club
Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences Club is a professional organization for students who are interested in agriculture, sustainability and environmental sciences.
Student Conservation Association
A national organizational for students and future conservation leaders.
American Society of Agronomy
A national organization for agronomists and students in the crop, soil and environmental sciences.
CROP SCIENCE SOCIETY OF AMERICA
The Crop Science Society of America (CSSA) is a progressive international scientific society that fosters the mission of plant science for a better world.
SOIL SCIENCE SOCIETY OF AMERICA
The Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) is a progressive international scientific society that fosters the transfer of knowledge and practices to sustain global soils.
Full list of College of Agriculture Clubs & Organizations
Last Updated: April 2018