Program Overview

Master of Science in Soil Science

The Master of Science in Soil Science program offers students the opportunity to focus research in a variety of specialized areas within the discipline. Current research foci in Soil Science include biogeochemistry, microbiology, nutrient management, the rhizosphere, and vadose zone hydrology.

Degree Description

We offer MS and PhD degrees in Crop Science and Soil Science, with the ability to focus research in a variety of specialized areas within each discipline. The Soil Science program features research in biogeochemistry, microbiology, nutrient management, the rhizosphere, and vadose zone hydrology. Crop and Soil Science faculty also lead collaborative research on organic, sustainable, and precision agriculture and cropping systems. Program options in human dimensional areas include agricultural education and rural sociology.

Admission Requirements

In addition to meeting the WSU Graduate School’s admission criteria, acceptance of qualified applicants is generally dependent upon availability of research support and a suitable advisor. Positions are limited and students are individually selected by faculty members with matching interests who have an opening for a graduate student. A completed application is an effective and essential tool for faculty consideration.

• WSU Graduate School Application
• Statement of Professional Goals
• Resume/CV
• GRE (optional, but encouraged)
• Language Requirements for international students
• Three letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from every college and university attended
• Research and identify faculty members whose work aligns with your research interests

Student Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to gain leadership, communication, and instructional experience through the option of serving as teaching assistants for one or more courses within their discipline. Extension program delivery, and Graduate School teacher training and grant proposal writing workshop opportunities are also available.

Career Opportunities

Soil scientists with advanced degrees may find employment in government agencies, national labs, academia, private business, environmental and agricultural consulting, and organic, international, and sustainable agriculture.

Career Placements

• National Lab scientists
  • USDA scientists
  • Agribusiness owners
  • Extension agents
  • Natural Resource Conservation Service scientists
  • Soil fertility analysts/consultants

Program Details

• Total Graduate Faculty in Program: 33
• Graduate Students in Program: 8
• Students Receiving Assistantships: 8
• Priority Deadlines:
  • Fall: January 10
  • Spring: July 1
• Campus: Pullman

Additional Information

International students may need to surpass the Graduate School’s minimum English language proficiency exam scores for this program. If the graduate program has unique score requirements, they will be detailed below. Otherwise, please refer to the Graduate School’s minimum score guidelines.