Plant and Soil Sciences with Teaching Certification

Become a Leader in Agricultural Education

The Bachelor of Science in Plant and Soil Sciences with Teaching Certification prepares students to become the next generation of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) educators. This program combines a strong scientific foundation in plant science, soil science, and agricultural systems with professional training in teaching and classroom leadership.

At Sam Houston State University, students learn by doing. You will work in laboratories, greenhouses, and agricultural facilities while gaining practical experience through program planning, classroom instruction, and student teaching. Graduates leave the program ready to lead agricultural education programs, mentor student organizations, and prepare the next generation for careers in agriculture and natural resources.

Through field-based learning and student teaching placements, students graduate with the experience and confidence needed to step directly into careers as AFNR educators or pursue advanced opportunities in agricultural education and leadership.

Earn Your Teaching Certification While Studying 

Students in this program graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Plant and Soil Sciences and eligibility for Texas teacher certification in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR).

The curriculum combines plant science, soil science, and agricultural systems with professional educator preparation courses. Students also complete supervised student teaching experiences that prepare them to manage agricultural education classrooms, laboratories, and experiential learning programs.

Graduates are qualified to teach AFNR courses in secondary schools and lead programs such as FFA chapters and Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs.

Multiple Pathways with Teaching Certification

Students interested in teaching agriculture can pursue certification through several agricultural majors at SHSU. In addition to Plant and Soil Sciences, students may complete teacher certification alongside majors such as Animal Science, Agricultural Business, Agricultural Engineering Technology, or Interdisciplinary Agriculture.

This flexibility allows students to choose the agricultural discipline that best matches their interests while still preparing for careers in agricultural education.

Regardless of the pathway selected, all students gain the scientific knowledge, leadership training, and classroom experience needed to successfully teach the next generation of agricultural professionals.