Major in Soil and Crop Sciences, Soil Science and Environmental Solutions Concentration
Program Overview
The Soil Science and Environmental Solutions concentration in the Soil and Crop Sciences major equips students with knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges. It focuses on understanding soil interactions, emphasizing hands-on training and interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduates are equipped for careers in sustainability, agriculture technology, and consulting roles, fostering innovation and environmental stewardship.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Soil and Crop Sciences major with a concentration in Soil Science and Environmental Solutions is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address complex environmental sustainability challenges. The program focuses on the fundamental principles and techniques of soil science, emphasizing the interactions between plants, the microbiome, the soil food web, and the soil's physical and chemical environment. Students gain hands-on, interdisciplinary training from leading soil scientists, preparing them for careers in sustainability, AgriTech, and consulting roles across various sectors.
Outline:
The program is structured across four years, with a total of 120 credit hours required for graduation. The curriculum is divided into semesters, with specific courses recommended for each semester.
Freshman Year:
- Semester 1: AGRI 100, CO 150, MATH 117, MATH 118, MATH 124, SOCR 100, SOCR 171/HORT 171
- Semester 2: CHEM 111, CHEM 112, LIFE 102 or BZ 120, SOCR 193
Sophomore Year:
- Semester 3: CHEM 113, LAND 220/LIFE 220, SOCR 221, Arts and Humanities
- Semester 4: GEOL 120, GEOL 121, SOCR 210, SOCR 240, Arts and Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences
Junior Year:
- Semester 5: SOCR 440, SOCR 455, STAT 201, STAT 301, STAT 307, Advanced Writing
- Semester 6: SOCR 350, SOCR 351, SOCR 375, SOCR 405/ESS 405, Upper-Division Electives
Senior Year:
- Semester 7: SOCR 400, SOCR 470, SOCR 471, SOCR 486, SOCR 492, Upper-Division Electives
- Semester 8: RS 478, SOCR 441, SOCR 467, Upper-Division Electives
Careers:
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in:
- Sustainability: Working in organizations focused on environmental sustainability, climate change mitigation, and resource management.
- AgriTech: Contributing to the development and implementation of innovative agricultural technologies.
- Consulting: Providing expertise in soil science and environmental solutions to various institutions, including academia, startups, industry, government, and non-profits.
Other:
- The program emphasizes hands-on, interdisciplinary training, providing students with practical experience in soil-related research.
- The program is designed to prepare students to be change-makers, applying cutting-edge science to real-world challenges.
Colorado State University
Overview:
Colorado State University (CSU) is a public research university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. CSU emphasizes a sense of community and a shared energy among students, faculty, and staff, all driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
CSU offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students are encouraged to explore their passions and discover new possibilities both inside and outside the classroom. The university boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous opportunities for students to connect with peers, faculty, and the broader Fort Collins community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Groundbreaking Research:
CSU is a leading research institution, with faculty and students actively engaged in cutting-edge projects across various disciplines.Transformative Student Body:
The university attracts a diverse and motivated student population, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.Beautiful Location:
Situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, CSU offers stunning natural beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.Commitment to Impact:
CSU emphasizes the importance of making a positive difference in the world, encouraging students to pursue careers and research that address global challenges.Academic Programs:
CSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including over 70 majors across nearly 300 programs. The university is particularly known for its strengths in:
Engineering:
CSU's College of Engineering is highly regarded, with programs in mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical engineering, among others.Agriculture and Natural Resources:
CSU is a leading institution in agricultural research and education, with strong programs in animal science, horticulture, and environmental science.Health Sciences:
CSU offers a variety of health-related programs, including nursing, public health, and biomedical sciences.Other:
CSU hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, workshops, and keynote speaker series. The university also has a strong alumni network and a vibrant community in Fort Collins.
