Our Programs
The Plant and Earth Science Department is home to six different, yet interrelated majors – community and environmental planning, conservation, crop and soil science, environmental science, geology and horticulture, each encompassing issues very relevant in today's complex world. We also offer minors in conservation, crop science, earth science, geology, horticulture, hydrogeology, soil science, sustainability studies and sustainable agriculture. Explore to learn more about each major and minor.
Majors
Community and Environmental Planning
Conservation
Crop and Soil Science
Environmental Science
Geology
Horticulture
Conservation (Minor)
This minor focuses on land use theory and practice and conservation principles and techniques for soil, water and forests. Choosing a conservation minor would complement and add depth to a major like crop and soil science, biology or geography.
Crop Science (Minor)
A crop science minor is a popular option for agricultural business or engineering technology majors interested in the crop side of production agriculture. This minor may provide sufficient background and coursework for becoming a Certified Crop Adviser.
Earth Science (Minor)
The earth science minor focuses on the dynamics of the surface of the earth. This minor is a great choice for students in environmental science, soil science or geography who want to broaden their understanding of the earth system.
Geology (Minor)
The geology major is designed for students in a variety of fields who desire a scientific understanding of the structure of the planet Earth, earth materials/resources and processes, the history of the planet and its life.
Horticulture (Minor)
Plants provide many practical benefits to society. A horticulture minor can be a good choice for students who want to learn more about managing landscape, ornamental and fruit/vegetable plants.
Applied Hydrology and Hydrogeology (Minor)
Water is an essential natural resource. This minor gives students and understanding of the water cycle, surface and groundwater dynamics and water quality. It's is a great choice for environmental science, geology, conservation, soil science and geography majors.
Soil Science (Minor)
This minor provides knowledge across the field of soil science, including soil morphology and conservation. It complements geology, environmental science, conservation or engineering technology majors and may provide the background and coursework to meet federal government employment requirements and national licensure.
Sustainability Studies (Minor)
A minor in sustainability studies provides a multi-disciplinary foundation for thinking and learning about the environmental, social and economic aspects of sustainability. This minor pairs very well with many majors across the college.
Sustainable Agriculture (Minor)
Students will learn about sustainable agriculture in its broadest sense, including issues related to maintaining and/or improving crop and animal productivity, preserving environmental resources for future generations, ensuring farm profitability and enhancing rural communities' vitality and viability.
