Plant and Soil Sciences, MS
Master of Science in Plant and Soil Sciences
Curriculum
The Master of Science degree in plant and soil sciences requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of course work, including six credit hours of PLNT or SOIL 5000 (Master’s Thesis). Through coursework and research, students pursuing a Master of Science in plant and soil sciences will gain technical knowledge and experience in the field that enhances their professional skills. Students can specialize in one of the following areas:
- Crop Physiology
- Cropping Systems and Modeling
- Plant Biotechnology
- Plant Breeding and Genetics
- Soil Chemistry
- Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management
- Soil Microbiology
- Soil Physics
- Water and Waste Management
- Weed Science
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.
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.