Overview of Soil Sciences

Soil science is the study of soils as a natural resource on the Earth’s surface. It focuses on the physical, chemical, biological, and mineralogical properties and processes that affect soils. Soil scientists examine the development of soils, their interrelationship with climate, their use for plant growth, soil classification, and survey techniques. Soil science also studies soil pollution, soil management, environmental risk assessment, and soil improvement.

Career Opportunities Associated with Soil Sciences

Soil science offers a range of career options, from entry-level positions in environmental consulting and soil analysis, to advanced positions with federal and state agencies. Other career paths include teaching and research in academia, environmental and civil engineering, genetics and plant science, food processing, water resource management, sustainable agriculture, and landscape architecture.

Internship/Co-Op Opportunities Related to Soil Sciences

There are many internship and co-op opportunities available to students studying soil sciences. Some of these include positions with government agencies such as the US Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, state departments of agriculture, or consulting firms. Internships and co-ops provide hands-on experience in soil physics, soil chemistry, soil biology, soil fertility, and soil survey techniques.

Specialized Tracks/Concentrations Within Soil Sciences

Soil science programs typically offer concentrations in soil fertility and plant nutrition, soil erosion and conservation, soil physics and chemistry, soil biology and ecology, and soil surveying and land use planning. Depending on the institution and program, students may also be able to select other specialized tracks or concentrations.

How Soil Sciences Prepares Students for Graduate School or Further Education

Soil science prepares students for graduate school by giving them the knowledge and skills they need in a wide range of fields. Students learn to think critically about soil processes and learn to use data analysis and problem-solving techniques. Programs also give students the opportunity to gain experience in their fields by participating in research projects, internships, and co-op placements. This helps students build connections in the industry and build a strong foundation for advanced study.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Soil Sciences

Due to the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on many areas of science and agriculture, soil science is no exception. AI is already being used in soil science to collect data on soil composition, soil health, and land utilization. AI can also help in soil conservation efforts by helping to analyze erosion and deforestation, and suggesting solutions to improve soil quality and conservation.

The Career Outlook for Soil Sciences

The career outlook for soil sciences is good. Jobs in soil science range from entry-level positions in consulting and analysis to more advanced positions with government or academic institutions. Many organizations and corporations are seeking soil scientists to apply their expertise to land management and conservation efforts. This is an area that is likely to continue to grow as more organizations recognize the importance of sustainable land management.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Soil Sciences:

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Salary: $54,798

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Salary: $45,118

Michigan State University, Salary: $41,741

Colorado State University-Fort Collins, Salary: $38,645

Texas A & M University-College Station, Salary: $35,050

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their bachelor’s degree in Soil Sciences.