Soil Science*
A specialization of our Horticulture and Crop Science major
*This program is currently pending university approval. More information coming soon.
Explore understanding and applying ecological principles in soil systems to integrate natural biological cycles and controls, make efficient use of resources, enhance environmental quality and increase biodiversity. Additionally, our department is thrilled to offer scholarships of up to $10,000 for the top teams and top individual winners in select State FFA Career Development Events, including Soil Science - check if you're eligible.
What you'll study
As a Horticulture and Crop Science major you’ll participate in hands-on-learning including labs and interactive activities in nearly every major course.
Program requirements can grow and change - always be sure to check with your academic advisor to ensure you are on the right track. Please feel free to reach out to Gary Pierzynski for any academic advising questions related to this specialization.
Soil Science focuses on understanding and applying ecological principles in soil systems to integrate natural biological cycles and controls, make efficient use of resources, enhance environmental quality and increase biodiversity
Core topics: soil science, soil health, ecosystem science, soil fertility, managed plant systems, ecology, chemistry and data analysis.
This program is currently pending university approval. More information coming soon.
This program is currently pending university approval. More information coming soon.
This program is currently pending university approval. More information coming soon.
This program is currently pending university approval. More information coming soon.
Career opportunities and more
- Soil Scientist
- Data Scientist
- Ecologist
- Soil Climate Specialist
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist
- Soil Conservationist
Ready for a once in a lifetime experience? Global Education is the opportunity to make the world your classroom. You'll get to travel with a group of peers, navigate a new culture, build skills that will aid you in your career and gain a new perspective on the world! Scholarships and financial aid assistance are available to help put these opportunities within your reach.
As an HCS undergraduate, an internship isn't just a necessity - it’s your built-in advantage. You'll graduate with specialized experience already on your resume, a clear sense of what you enjoy (and what you'd rather skip) and a professional network ready to hire you.
Choose your destination:
- Stay local: Build deep roots within the thriving Ohio agricultural and green industry.
- Cross state lines: Explore operations all across the U.S.
- Go global: Ever dreamed of working in the Netherlands, Australia or beyond? Through the Ohio International Intern Program (TOP), we make it possible.
Ready to map out your journey? Check out our internship course and internship requirements
College is an investment in your future. We’re here to help you understand your options, find support and make a plan that works for you and your family.
Explore scholarship and funding opportunities
Additionally, our department is thrilled to offer scholarships of up to $10,000 for the top teams and top individual winners in select State FFA Career Development Events - check if you're eligible.
Student researchers are a valuable part of our department. Undergraduate students in HCS have a variety of opportunities to gain valuable hands-on research experience while learning new skills and techniques, which can be broadly applied across fields.
How to become an HCS major
Our only requirement in general admission to The Ohio State University - we have no separate application required. Please select the Horticulture and Crop Science major when applying to Ohio State if you are interested in our program.
We're happy to welcome new first-year students into our HCS program.
We're happy to welcome campus changers into our HCS program.
We're happy to welcome major changers and transfer students into our HCS program.
We welcome international students to enroll in our HCS program. Please note all HCS students must complete all aspects of the HCS program including the internship. It is important that the proper work visa is in place to allow for this employment in the United States.
Not sure if our program is a good fit for you?
We get it, it's a big decision! Let us help you make it easier; contact us with questions and to learn more about the career options our programs can open for you. We're also happy to set up a fully custom campus visit experience for you as well.