Plant and Soil Science

The Plant and Soil Science program at Lincoln University prepares graduates for diverse careers in agriculture, environmental management, and research. This program offers a robust foundation in plant biology and soil management, integrating essential topics such as wetland management, environmental monitoring and remediation, and the management of soils, water, and air quality. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of crop production, soil fertility, pest management, and the environmental impacts of agricultural practices. The curriculum includes core courses in plant and soil science, supplemented by hands-on learning through laboratory work, field studies, and internships. This well-rounded education equips graduates with the skills necessary to excel in roles such as agricultural consultants, soil scientists, and environmental managers, and prepares them for advanced study opportunities for those pursuing specialized research or academic careers.

Our faculty will nurture your passion for environmental conservation and sustainability through a curriculum designed to offer both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

• Wetland Management: Understanding and managing wetland ecosystems to preserve their ecological functions.
• Environmental Monitoring and Remediation: Techniques for assessing and addressing environmental contamination and degradation.
• Soils, Water, and Air Quality Management: Strategies for maintaining and improving the quality of soil, water, and air to support healthy ecosystems and agricultural systems.

These courses are complemented by hands-on experiences in laboratories, field studies and internships, providing you with the skills and knowledge to make a tangible impact in the field of plant and soil science.

General Requirements

The following are general requirements for all students beginning an undergraduate program at Lincoln. For more information, visit Undergraduate Admissions Requirements.

Diploma	Graduation from high school or having the equivalent of a high school diploma such as the General Education Development (GED) examination.
Core Subjects	A minimum of a 2.0 GPA in core college prep classes (English, math, social sciences and science with a lab).
Grade Average	A "C" average. However, in some cases, a student with a weak academic record may be considered. To remain at Lincoln, however, the student must meet scholastic requirements.
Standardized Tests	Entering freshmen should take the ACT or SAT test. The codes for Lincoln are as follows: SAT: 6366. ACT: 3614.

Sample Academic Pathway: Term 1

GE 101	University Seminar*	1
AGR 101	Intro to Animal Science	3
BIO 103/150	Principles of Biology*	3
BIO 104L	Principles of Biology Lab*	1
ENG 101	Comp & Rhet (English)*	3
	Social/Behavioral Science*	3
	TOTAL	14

 

Sample Academic Pathway: Term 2

AGR 102	Intro to Plant Science	3
ENV 103	Intro to Environmental Science*	3
MAT 113/117	College Algebra or Elementary Statistics*	3
	Humanities/Fine Arts*	3
	International Cultural Diversity	3
	TOTAL	15

 

Sample Academic Pathway: Term 3

AGR 220	Intro to Agricultural Economics	3
AGR/GIS 208	Intro to Geospatial Information Science	3
	Civics Course*	3
CHM 102/102L	General Chemistry II/General Chemistry II Lab	4
ENG 102	Comp & Rhet II (English II)*	3
	TOTAL	16

  

Sample Academic Pathway: Term 4

AGR 211	Soils in Our Environment	3
AGR 306	Horticulture	3
	Humanities/Fine Arts*	3
	Humanities/Fine Arts*	3
SPT 206	Speech*	3
	TOTAL	15

  

Sample Academic Pathway: Term 5

AGR 312	Agronomic Crops	3
AGR 325	Agriculture Experience	3
AGR 360A	Intro to Aquaculture	3
AGR 341	Principles of Agroforestry	3
	Elective (300-400 level)	3
	TOTAL	15

  

Sample Academic Pathway: Term 6

AGR 305	Wildlife Damage Management	3
AGR 313	Pastures & Forages	3
AGR 320	Agricultural Marketing	3
AGR 324	Nutrient Management & Soil Health	3
	Elective (300-400 level)	3
	TOTAL	15

  

Sample Academic Pathway: Term 7

AGR 435	Wetlands Management	3
AGR 428	Integrated Pest Management	3
	Elective (300-400 level)	3
	Elective (300-400 level)	3
	Elective (300-400 level)	3
	TOTAL	15

  

Sample Academic Pathway: Term 8

AGR 400	Agriculture Seminar	2
AGR 404P	Crop Systems	3
AGR 414	Soil, Water, Air Quality Management	3
AGR 430	Environmental Monitoring & Remediation	3
	Elective (300-400 level)	3
	TOTAL	14

*General Education course

Emphasis Area Electives = AGR 300, AGR 320A, AGR 308, AGR 313, AGR 315, AGR 331, AGR 339, AGR 406, AGR 450, BIO 401 or any other 300-400 level Agriculture, Biology or Chemistry course

Lincoln University’s academic programs equip students for real-world careers, focusing on job preparation and impactful professional contributions. Students apply learned concepts to make a significant impact in their fields. In the plant and soil science program, students engage with top researchers before graduate work, gaining invaluable experience for a top-level career.

• Aquaculturist
• Arboriculturist
• Botanist
• Conservation Scientist 
• Crop Nutrition Scientist
• Environmental Engineer
• Environmental Scientist
• Horticulturalist
• Plant Scientist*
• Research Soil Scientist
• Soil Scientist

*May require additional certifications or education.

At Lincoln University, you'll have the unique opportunity to engage with world-class animal science researchers, gaining valuable hands-on experience and insights. The Department of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences offers state-of-the-art farms and labs, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities in various aspects of agriculture. These facilities incorporate aquaculture, large and small ruminant production, greenhouses, vegetable and fruit production, integrated pest management, and selected agronomic crops. This comprehensive exposure ensures that students are well-prepared for careers in agricultural sciences and related fields.

This exposure ensures that students have every advantage when seeking a career after graduating from Lincoln.