Course descriptionAgronomy incorporates the basic sciences (such as biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and microbiology) into an applied science, which is the foundation for most agriculture. Soil science involves issues related to crop production and also to the environmental aspects of soil management. Numerous career opportunities are available including in the turfgrass industry, Cooperative Extension System, Natural Resources Conservation Service, public/ private farm management, environmental protection, and agricultural industry (fertilizers, pesticides, and seed, etc.).
Ninety-eight (98) percent of graduates are employed within a year or go to graduate school.
The Agronomy and Soils department offers four educational tracks that allow students to tailor classes to fit specific interests: Production, Turf Management, Business, and Science.
In the Production track, students study food, feed, fiber, oil, and forage crop production. Courses prepare graduates for careers with farm-advisory agencies such as soil testing laboratories and other private consultants.
The popular Turf Management track focuses on turfgrass production, maintenance, and weed control. Students learn to work with customers and businesses such as golf courses in creating and maintaining healthy turf.
The Business track incorporates management and agribusiness courses into the agronomy curriculum. Some graduates work with local, state, and federal governments and others choose to further their education or work in fields of business or law.
The Science career track provides students a scientific base that can include courses in soil morphology, systemic botany, or conservation. This track prepares graduates for careers as researchers with corporations or chemical industries, or with producers of fertilizers, herbicides, and other agricultural chemicals.