Plant and Soil Sciences (MS)

Program Educational Goals:

1. Students will demonstrate a high level of knowledge in their respective subject area (i.e., plant science and/or soil science) and appropriate subdisciplines (e.g., biogeochemistry, ecosystem ecology, molecular plant biology, plant pathology, soil chemistry, soil microbiology, soil physics, etc.).
2. Students will have the ability to understand and utilize primary literature, demonstrating critical thinking skills through analyzing datasets, writing, and orally communicating (defending concepts and theories) to a diverse range of audiences. 
3. Students will demonstrate a strong competency in performing scholarly activities such as: 
   • Conceptualization - the ability to apply the scientific method through hypothesis formulation and experimental design, 
   • Execution - through proper protocol adherence and experimentation, data analysis, synthesis of information, and 
   • Presentation - the ability to analyze and report their data through evaluation and interpretation of their findings. 
4. Students will demonstrate a commitment to professional ethics through working independently and with others on a team, and will develop professional skills through networking, seminar presentation, and course work. 
5. Students will develop an appreciation of interdisciplinary collaboration, within and outside of the University, through interdisciplinary events and professional meetings.
6. Students will participate in a teaching experience (e.g., teaching assistant, guest lecturer, course or curriculum design, development of teaching materials, instruction of peers, or extension/outreach education) to increase communication skills and improve marketability of graduates.