Plant and Soil Science

Become a Leader in Plant and Soil Science at Lincoln University
As an agriculture major with an emphasis in plant and soil science at Lincoln University, you’ll be at the forefront of addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. Your education will empower you to develop scientific solutions for renewable energy, climate change, and global food security.
Agriculture is the backbone of our global economy, and the need for skilled environmental professionals has never been greater. At Lincoln University, you’ll learn to optimize plant growth, manage soil health, and cultivate sustainable farming practices. With hands-on experience both in and out of the classroom, you'll be equipped with the problem-solving skills necessary to develop innovative techniques in the field.
Our dedicated faculty will nurture your passion for environmental conservation and sustainability through immersive, practical experiences. Whether you're drawn to scientific research and innovation or exploring sustainable agricultural practices, Lincoln University provides the tools and opportunities to thrive in your career.
Join us and become part of the solution for a healthier, more sustainable world.
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
Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
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
Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
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
Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
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
Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
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
Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
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
Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
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
Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
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
Course Number | Course Title | Credit Hours |
---|---|---|
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.
Contact Us
Department of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
219 Frank Hall
816 Chestnut Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
P: 573-681-5380
F: 573-681-5955
E: DAES@LincolnU.edu
Admissions
Young Hall Room B-7
820 Chestnut Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
P: 573-681-5599
E: Admissions@LincolnU.edu