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The degree represents the capacity to conduct independent research with limited guidance and develop a dissertation suitable for publication in a peer-reviewed academic journal. Candidates may apply up to 18 credits from a previous Master of Science program toward their Ph.D. requirements. Both written and oral preliminary examinations must be finished within a six-year timeframe. Our soil science graduate programs equip students for professional roles in public and private sectors related to soil and environmental sciences. Graduates secure positions with consulting companies, government agencies, or academic institutions. To establish a strong disciplinary foundation, students must demonstrate proficiency in these specialized areas (four for master's and all five for doctoral programs): soil physics, soil chemistry, soil microbiology, soil formation and classification, and soil fertility.
To be considered for admission in full graduate standing, an applicant must have a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited college or university as determined by a regional or general accrediting agency and must have at least a “B” (3.000/4.000) average in the undergraduate major or in the latest graduate degree program.
Provide Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a total score of at least 80 on the Internet-based Test (iBT). Minimum test scores for each section:
Listening: 18 points
Reading: 18 points
Writing: 18 points Speaking: 18 points for admission, 23 points for TA appointment where TA has direct verbal interactions with students, 26 points for TA appointment where TA presents lectures in the class or laboratory
The maximum total score for the iBT is 120 with each section worth 30 points.
Provide International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores with an overall band score of at least 6.5. Minimum test scores for each section are listed below:
Listening: 6.5
Reading: 6.5
Writing: 6.5
Speaking: 6.5 for admission, 7.0 for TA appointment
Computer-based TOEFL scores must be 213 or higher (with at least 17 on three sections and no section score below 13). The paper-based test requires a score of 550 or higher (with scores of 50 on at least two of the three sections and no section score below 45).
Application Deadlines and Details
Fall Mar 1
Spring Jul 15
Summer 1 Dec 15
Summer 2 Dec 15