Program Overview

Applied Plant and Soil Sciences Program

The Applied Plant and Soil Sciences (APSS) major is favored by students who have an aptitude in the sciences and want to apply their knowledge and hands-on skills to posing and answering research questions about plants, soil, insects, microbes, and climate.

Program Description

This program includes:

• Applied hands-on training across broad areas in plant and soil sciences
• Solid foundations in science and technology that align with sustainability goals and practices
• A four-course Business Option drawing from the Isenberg School of Management
• A four-course Science Option offering rigorous training in laboratory methods for biology, chemistry, microbiology, ecology, and environmental science
• A rich list of electives allowing specialization in the topics that interest students most

Courses provide broad foundations in the plant and soil sciences, including biology, chemistry, botany, and ecosystem studies. Applied courses include plant health and physiology, soil health, plant production, and pest management. Students apply a range of scientific disciplines to topics of interest in plant science, soil science, and environmental science, often tackling issues of sustainability, climate change, and how to clean pollutants from soil.

Career Opportunities

Many graduates work in horticulture, managing greenhouses and plant nurseries, or in turfgrass science, managing golf courses, football stadiums, and school sport fields. The program can prepare students for careers where they will apply science to real-world problems in biotechnology, environmental consulting, pest control, or agriculture.

Degree Options

• Bachelor of Science in Applied Plant & Soil Sciences (ON-CAMPUS)
• Academic Minor in Applied Plant & Soil Sciences (ON-CAMPUS)
• Graduate Degrees in Plant and Soil Sciences (ON-CAMPUS)
• Bachelor of Science in Plant & Soil Sciences (Only for on-campus students entering F24 or earlier)