Plant and Soil Sciences curricula focus on the application of sciences to the integrated management of plants, soil, and climate for high-quality production of food, fiber, fuel, and ornamental plants. Central to this course of study is the dedication to conserve, maintain and enhance our environment. An undergraduate student may major in Agronomy (AGN), Environmental Sciences in Agricultural Systems (ESAS), or Horticulture (HO) and specialize in concentration areas such as Agricultural and Environmental Soil Sciences (AGN), Golf and Sports Turf Management (AGN), Integrated Crop Management (AGN), Integrated Pest Management (AGN), Floral Management (HO), Floriculture and Ornamentals (HO), and Fruit and Vegetable Production (HO).

Choose one of the following concentrations:

Agricultural and Environmental Soil Sciences Concentration

The Agricultural and Environmental Soil Science curriculum provides an educational foundation in soil processes involving physical, chemical, and biological interrelationships. The soil resource is an integral component of our environment and is subject to loss and degradation through human activities. Humanity’s dependence on soil for food and fiber production and the need for ensuring environmental quality require individuals trained in the management of this resource. Career opportunities exist both nationally and internationally in agricultural and environmental consulting, agribusiness, government agencies, teaching, and research. Required courses provide soil science training, while elective courses can be selected to meet specific needs.

Golf and Sports Turf Management Concentration (GSTM)

Golf and Sports Turf Management (GSTM) is the study of plant and soil sciences for the culture of turfgrass on golf and sports facilities. The GSTM curriculum prepares individuals for careers as golf course superintendents at private, daily fee, and resort courses or as sports turf managers at city, school, and professional sports turf facilities (i.e. football, baseball, soccer fields.) New construction of golf courses and sports facilities has led to a heightened demand for trained golf and sports turf management professionals. Three semesters of Cooperative Education work experience will be required of all students enrolled in the GSTM concentration.

Integrated Crop Management Concentration (ICM)

Integrated Crop Management (ICM) is the study of food and fiber production utilizing ecologically sound and technologically advanced methods. Areas covered include basic concepts of plant science and specific practices in crop initiation, culture, harvesting, processing, distribution and marketing. Methods of germplasm enhancement are taught. Specific program areas of study include agronomic crop production, crop science, fruit science, seed science, seed technology, and vegetable crop production. Students completing the Integrated Crop Management curriculum are prepared for careers as producers, consultants, technical representatives, assistant plant breeders, extension agents, or inspectors with USDA and state agencies. This curriculum also provides a good background of basic sciences for those who wish to pursue graduate studies.

Integrated Pest Management Concentration (IPM)

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an interdisciplinary concentration of study in Entomology, Plant Pathology and Weed Science jointly administered by the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology and the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences. Effective management of pest problems requires a broad base of knowledge in the pest disciplines and practical field experience.

• Integrated Pest Management Concentration
• Integrated Crop Management Concentration
• Golf and Sports Turf Management Concentration
Agricultural and Environmental Soil Sciences Concentration