Minor in Soil Science
OVERVIEW OF DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Minimum number of credits required to earn minor: 18
GPA requirements to earn minor: 2.0
This minor is designed to provide students with a basic understanding of soil science that goes beyond the basic soil science course required for most natural resource and environmental science disciplines. The focus of the minor is to add depth to the student’s understanding of the role of soils in supporting ecosystem services essential for society and the sustainability of our planet. The required courses build depth in the physical, biological and chemical form and function of soils, and elective courses allow the student to design their soil science minor curriculum to best address their disciplinary interests. It can be useful across a range of natural resource sectors including agriculture, horticulture, forestry, wetland ecology, and environmental science.
Required Courses:
EES 140 – Soil Science Credits: 3
EES 141 – Soil Science Laboratory Credits: 1
PSE 440 – Environmental Soil Chemistry and Plant Nutrition Credits: 3 (offered spring in even years)
PSE 469 – Soil Microbiology Credits: 3
Plus at least 8 credits the following list:
BIO 432 – Biology of the Fungi Credits: 4
CIE 365 – Soil Mechanics Credits: 3
CIE 366 – Soil Mechanics Laboratory Credits: 1
ERS 330 – Earth Materials Credits: 4
ERS 441 – Glaciers and Our Landscape Credits: 3
ERS 361 – The Principles of Geomorphology Credits: 3
WLE 423 – Wetland Ecology and Conservation Credits: 4
*Additional options for classes are possible with approval by minor advisor.