Plant and Soil Sciences, Bachelor of Science

Available: On Campus

The Bachelor of Science in Plant and Soil Sciences is ideal for students interested in careers related to production, marketing and/or management of horticulture or agronomic crops, landscape design/installation/maintenance, plant breeding and other related businesses.

The plant and soil sciences degree offers students formal classroom instruction with hands-on laboratory experiences in the scientific aspects of plants and soil. Students may specialize in either agronomy or horticulture. Agronomy is the production and protection of feed, food, fiber, and oil crops as well as turf grass production and management. Horticulture is landscape operations, greenhouse management, plant propagation, and various production aspects of vegetable, fruit, nut, and ornamental crops.

While many options exist, popular minors paired with the plant and soil sciences major include, Agricultural Business, Agricultural Engineering Technology, Biology and Environmental Science. Additionally, a BS in Plant and Soil Sciences with Teaching Certification is a popular option.

Student Groups

Students are encouraged to actively participate in professional extracurricular activities. Some of those sponsored by the department include Plant and Soil Sciences Club, Collegiate FFA, and Delta Tau Alpha.

Careers in Plant and Soil Sciences

  • Greenhouse Production
  • Landscape Planning and Maintenance
  • Natural Resource Conservation
  • Nursery Production
  • Plant Health Inspection Services
  • Sales
  • Agricultural Science Teacher
  • AgriLife Extension Agent

Or continue your education with a graduate degree.

Program Breakdown

Brief breakdown of the type, or types, of degree(s) available, their length, available enrollment, and estimated cost.
Category Degree Summary
Length 120 Credit Hours
(133 Hours with Teaching Certification)
Required Courses Bachelor of Science (BS)
BS: with Teaching Certification
Enrollment Fall, Spring, Summer
Tuition/Costs Rates Per Semester

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

  • Fall: August 1
  • Spring: December 15
  • Summer: May 15