Program Overview
The Master of Science in Soil Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison provides a comprehensive education in soil science principles and their application in agriculture, natural resources, and environmental management. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing students for careers in research, teaching, and industry. Students complete coursework in soil physics, chemistry, biology, fertility, and spatial analysis, and conduct original research culminating in a thesis.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science program in Soil Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison provides a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of soil science and their application to agriculture, natural resources, and environmental management. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to prepare students for careers in research, teaching, and industry. The program's objectives are to:
- Provide students with a strong foundation in the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils
- Develop students' understanding of soil genesis, classification, and management
- Train students in the use of soil science principles to address environmental and agricultural challenges
- Prepare students for careers in research, teaching, and industry
Outline:
The Soil Science M.S. program requires 30 credits of coursework, including:
- Core Courses (9 credits):
- SOIL SCI 301: General Soil Science (4 credits)
- SOIL SCI 325: Soils and Landscapes (3 credits)
- SOIL SCI 728: Graduate Seminar (1 credit)
- Elective Courses (9 credits):
- Students must select at least one course from three of the following five subject areas:
- Soil Physics
- Soil Chemistry
- Soil Biology
- Soil Fertility
- Spatial Analysis
- Research (21 credits):
- Students must complete a thesis based on original research in soil science.
Assessment:
Students in the Soil Science M.S. program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Coursework: Students must earn a grade of B or better in all core courses and an average grade of B or better in all elective courses.
- Research: Students must submit a written thesis based on their original research. The thesis must be approved by the student's thesis committee and defended in an oral examination.
- Oral Presentations: Students must present their research findings at a departmental seminar.
Teaching:
The Soil Science M.S. program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively involved in research and outreach. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory and field work. Students have the opportunity to work with faculty members on research projects and to gain experience in teaching and extension.
Careers:
Graduates of the Soil Science M.S. program are employed in a variety of careers, including:
- Research Scientist
- Soil Consultant
- Environmental Manager
- Agricultural Extension Agent
- Teacher
- Policy Analyst
