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
E-mail: david.wright@sdstate.edu
E-mail: brent.turnipseed@sdstate.edu
www.sdstate.edu/plant-science
Click here for additional information.
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 https://www.soils.org/certifications.
Course Delivery Format
The program coursework is available on campus, in classrooms and laboratories, as well as field-based settings.
