2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 29, 2024  
2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Soil Science Minor


Program Coordinator/Contact

David Wright, Department Head
Brent Turnipseed, Undergraduate Teaching Coordinator
Department of Agronomy, Horticulture, and Plant Science
Berg Agricultural Hall 244
605-688-5123

Program Information

The soil science minor is open to students of all majors and provides a strong background in basic soil sciences, covering such topics as soil biology, soil chemistry, conservation, contaminants, and land management. Students completing this minor may seek employment in areas of agricultural production, marketing, management, and conservation, i.e., areas in which decision-making requires a basic understanding of soils.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Soil Science minor, students will:

  • achieve a fundamental understanding of basic Soil Science principles and practices;
  • gain an understanding of the scope, activities, and nomenclature in the field of Soils (fertility, genesis, conservation, chemistry, and microbiology);
  • demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate (written, listening, and oral) with both scientific and non-scientific audiences;
  • be an advocate for Soil Science and Agriculture in society; and
  • be a lifelong learner.

Academic Requirements

Students must have a 2.5 GPA or higher and a grade of C or higher in the program’s coursework.

Accreditation, Certification, and Licensure

Students seeking Soil Science Certification should contact their advisor and refer to the Soil Science Society of America website.

Course Delivery Format

The program coursework is available on campus, in classrooms and laboratories, as well as field-based settings.