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Soil Science

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School of Natural Resources 124 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building Columbia, MO 65211 Phone: 573-882-1730 Fax: 573-882-2636 E-mail: SNR@missouri.edu

Major Curriculum*
Course	Credit
First Semester
Chemistry I	2
Computer Science	3
Geology	4
History	3
College Algebra	3

Second Semester
Chemistry II	3
English Composition	3
Ecology and Renewable Resource Mgt.	3
Intro to Soil Science	3
Soil Science Laboratory	2
Social Science Elective	3

Third Semester
Intro to Meteorology	3
Organic Chemistry	5
Communications	3
Economics	3
Calculus	3
Soils and the Environment	3

Fourth Semester
Biochemistry	3
Intro to Plant Science	3
Plant Science Laboratory	2
Communications	3
Statistics	3
Humanities Elective	3

Summer: International Studies recommended	6-9

Fifth Semester
Biometrics	3
Soil Science Electives	6
Humanities Elective	3
Departmental Elective	3

Sixth Semester
Soil Science Elective	3
Science Electives	6
Humanities Elective	3
Departmental Elective	3

Summer: Internship recommended	3

Seventh Semester
Departmental Elective	3
Science Elective	3
Other Electives	10

Eighth Semester
Natural Resources Practicum	3
Soil Science Elective	3
Departmental Elective	3
Other Electives	7

*Individual degree program may vary.

Soil is the medium of life. It provides essential nutrients so that our agricultural crops can produce bountiful harvests. It filters pollution and impurities from our water. It allows forests to grow and clean our air.

Soil Science

If you're interested in monitoring environmental change, conserving soil and assuring healthy streams while shaping new policies and educating others about the environment, then a career in soil science is right for you.

Career Opportunities

A bachelor's of science degree in soil and atmospheric sciences from the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) will provide you with all the skills you'll need to succeed in a wide variety of soil science careers.

You can individualize your degree program by choosing between two degree options — one emphasizing soil resource management and one emphasizing environmental soil science — that prepare you for the career field that most interests you. Some soil science careers you might consider include:

Environmental specialists find employment with federal, state, county and city government agencies, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the Missouri Department of Conservation, or the Missouri Department of Health, as well as numerous private consulting firms. They use their broad technical knowledge and understanding of ecosystems to provide expertise in situations involving a variety of environmental issues, which could include air and water quality, waste management and responsible land use.
Soil conservationists often are employed by state and federal agencies such as the Missouri Department of Agriculture and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. They are responsible for working with landowners, especially farmers, to ensure that soil conservation practices are in place on the land. They use their knowledge of the physical properties, chemistry and fertility of soils in order to make agriculture more productive while protecting the environment.
Water quality specialists also find employment with government agencies and private consulting firms. They are responsible for monitoring rivers, lakes and streams for potential pollution from erosion and runoff, as well as ensuring that wells and other sources of municipal drinking water are safe.

Research/Internship Opportunities

As a soil science student, your chances to gain real-world experience through research and internships are almost limitless.

You can work side-by-side in the field or lab with soil science faculty and get hands-on experience with research in environmental monitoring, water quality management or erosion control.

Opportunities exist for on-campus internships and part-time employment as technicians, both of which provide valuable experience, especially if you're interested in pursuing a professional career in soil science.

You are also encouraged to complete an off-campus summer internship. On-the-job training with private companies or government agencies will provide invaluable experience that will serve you well after graduation.

Among the state and federal government agencies that are likely to recruit soil science interns are the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Missouri Department of Health.

Internship opportunities in private industry include working for environmental consulting firms, and for companies in the horticultural and agricultural production industries.

Get Involved on Campus

Want to have fun and develop your leadership skills and professional contacts at the same time? Then join one or more of the College’s student clubs and organizations. There are more than 30 to choose from, and each gives you the opportunity to apply what you’re learning in the classroom while making lifelong friends.

As a soil science student, you might consider joining:

Soil and Water Conservation Society members have opportunities to interact and develop contacts with soil science professionals, to discuss current topics in the field, and to learn more about possible career options. Members also can join the Soil Judging Team, which participates in regional and national competitions sponsored by the Soil Science Society of America.

Soil Science

Career Opportunities

Research/Internship Opportunities

Get Involved on Campus

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