Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Plant and Soil Science at Texas Tech University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of plant and soil principles. Through hands-on learning and a choice of six concentrations, graduates are prepared to address challenges in crop production, soil management, and environmental sustainability, fostering ethical and responsible practices in the field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Overview:
The Department of Plant and Soil Science at Texas Tech University offers a Bachelor of Science in Plant and Soil Science (PSS) designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the biological and physical principles underlying plant and soil sciences. This program prepares graduates to manage a diverse range of plant and soil issues, including:
- Fertilization and pesticide application: Implementing effective strategies for applying fertilizers and pesticides to optimize crop production and minimize environmental impact.
- Urban heat mitigation: Utilizing landscape plants to reduce the urban heat load and create more comfortable and sustainable urban environments.
- Crop improvement: Employing plant breeding and biotechnology techniques to enhance crop production and develop new varieties with improved characteristics.
- Vineyard and winery management: Gaining expertise in the principles and practices of viticulture and enology to effectively manage vineyards and produce high-quality wines.
- Sustainable agriculture: Implementing sustainable agricultural practices that promote environmental conservation, resource efficiency, and food security.
Objectives:
The PSS program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to:
- Understand the fundamental principles of plant and soil science: Students will gain a deep understanding of plant physiology, genetics, biochemistry, soil fertility, and environmental interactions.
- Apply scientific knowledge to solve real-world problems: The program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, enabling students to apply their knowledge to address challenges related to crop production, soil management, and environmental sustainability.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills: Students will learn to analyze complex data, formulate solutions, and communicate their findings effectively.
- Become responsible and ethical professionals: The program emphasizes ethical considerations in plant and soil science, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship and social responsibility in graduates.
Program Description:
The PSS program offers a comprehensive curriculum encompassing various aspects of plant and soil science. Students can choose to specialize in one of six areas of concentration:
- Crop Science: Focuses on the principles and practices of crop production, including plant breeding, genetics, and crop management.
- Environmental Soil and Water Sciences: Emphasizes the study of soil and water resources, their management, and the impact of human activities on these vital resources.
- Horticulture and Turfgrass Science: Explores the science and art of cultivating plants for aesthetic, recreational, and agricultural purposes, including turfgrass management and landscape design.
- Viticulture and Enology: Delves into the principles and practices of viticulture (grape growing) and enology (winemaking), encompassing vineyard management, grape varieties, and wine production techniques.
- Horticulture at a Distance: Provides a flexible program for students seeking a degree in horticulture through online coursework and limited on-campus requirements.
- Local Food and Wine Production: Focuses on the production, marketing, and distribution of local food and wine products, emphasizing sustainability and community-based approaches. The program requires completion of 120 semester credit hours, with a specific distribution of coursework across different categories:
- Communication Literacy Requirement: This requirement ensures students develop effective written and oral communication skills through designated PSS courses.
- PSS Concentration Courses: Students choose courses within their chosen concentration to deepen their knowledge and expertise in that area.
- PSS Required Courses: These core courses provide a foundation in the fundamental principles of plant and soil science, covering topics such as crop physiology, plant pathology, soils, and weed science.
- General Education Requirements: Students fulfill university-wide requirements in areas like mathematics, history, and humanities.
- Electives: Students have the flexibility to choose additional courses to further explore their interests or prepare for specific career goals.
