The department offers a Bachelor of Science in Plant and Soil Science degree designed to build on a foundation of basic biological and physical science principles. This foundation provides students a broad base of knowledge as well as hands-on experience in many aspects of the plant and soil sciences industry. Students learn the latest methods to produce agronomic, forage, horticultural, and turfgrass crops while conserving natural soil and water resources. In addition, students learn current management techniques to control or prevent plant diseases, insects, and weed species as well as efficient soil nutrient and water management.<br>A bachelor's degree in plant and soil science prepares students to manage properly a wide variety of plant and soil issues, such as fertilization and pesticide application, mitigation of urban heat load through appropriate use of landscape plants, improved crop production through plant breeding and biotechnology, and appropriate management practices for vineyards and wineries.