Two people in a field work in the soil with plants

Master of Science in Plant and Soil Sciences

Enhance your knowledge in the full spectrum of agricultural and environmental study.

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In the master of science in plant and soil sciences program at UMass Amherst you can prepare for a career or further education in the field by exploring the full spectrum of agricultural and environmental studies.

You can choose from two tracks:

  • Thesis track—for students with strongly focused research interests
  • Non-thesis track—for students wishing to embark on applied careers

Regardless of which track you choose, you’ll select from advanced courses that suit your interests and career goals, such as microbiology of the soil, intermediate biometry, plant-pathogen interactions, and data analysis and interpretation, among others.

UMass Amherst also offers an online MS in soil science designed for working professionals—often those with backgrounds in science-related fields such as geology, engineering, public health, biology, sustainability, or environmental sciences—interested in gaining soil science expertise.

Plant and Soil Sciences

Train in biology and laboratory methods to focus your studies on plant science and applied biology.