Program Coordinator/Contact
David Wright, Department Head
Brent Turnipseed, Assistant Department Head
Hani Ghosheh, Undergraduate Teaching Coordinator
Department of Agronomy, Horticulture, and Plant Science
Raven Precision Agriculture Center 140
605-688-4600 (Department Head, SRPAC 140)
605-688-4450 (Teaching Office, SNP 247)
Program Information
The soil science certification curriculum is open to students of all majors and focuses on basic soil sciences, covering such topics as soil biology, soil chemistry, conservation, contaminants, and land management. Students completing the recommended coursework may seek employment in areas of agricultural production, marketing, management, and conservation.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Soil Science Certification, students will:
- achieve a fundamental understanding of basic Soil Science principles and practices; and
- gain an understanding of soil biology, soil chemistry, conservation, contaminants, and land management in preparation for certification or licensure in the field.
Accreditation, Certification, and Licensure
Students seeking certification or licensure as a professional soil scientist should contact their advisor and refer to the Soil Science Society of America webpage.
Course Delivery Format
The program coursework is available on campus, in classrooms and laboratories, as well as field-based settings.
