Soil Science, PhD
Doctorate in Soil Science
Curriculum
The Doctor of Philosophy program in soil science requires 60 credit hours including a minimum of 15 credit hours of PLNT or SOIL 6000 (Doctoral Thesis). Through coursework and research, students pursuing a PhD in soil science will gain
technical knowledge and experience in the field and enhance their professional skills.
Students can specialize in one of the following areas:
- Soil Chemistry
- Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management
- Soil Microbiology
- Soil Physics
- Water and Waste Management
Research and Faculty
The OSU Department of Plant and Soil Sciences is home to a family of faculty, staff and students who take pride in their commitment to create positive change in the world. From the classroom to the field, the department is working to develop systems that provide society’s most basic needs in a sustainable way. Soil chemistry, fertility, nutrient management, microbiology, and physics relevant to crop production and environmental conservation are just a few of the critical areas where students will find strong programs in teaching, research and extension.
Admissions
Prospective students must meet the general requirements for admission to the OSU Graduate College. The departmental graduate coordinator and faculty in an applicant's area of interest
will review applications and make recommendations to the department head relative
to the qualifications of individual applicants. Qualified applicants must be accepted
by a departmental advisor prior to being considered for official admission to the
university. The department head recommends acceptance or rejection of individual applicants
to the Dean of the Graduate College.
Cost and Assistance
Many students help finance graduate education through part-time, paid employment as a graduate assistant. As a graduate assistant, you can expand and apply your knowledge and skills under the supervision of faculty or staff.
Graduate Research (GRA) and Teaching Assistantships (GTA) in the OSU Department of Plant and Soil Sciences are awarded on a competitive basis. Wherever possible, students with the best academic record and greatest potential for graduate study are given highest priority for assistantship support in any specific research discipline.