Plant and Soil Sciences

The plant and soil sciences program, through theoretical and practical training, prepares you to tackle real-world problems. Build a broad base of knowledge across biology, chemistry, ecology, and genetics, with options to add courses in environmental science, biochemistry, microbiology, physics, and statistics. Specialize your major with courses in horticultural science, plant biotechnology, plant pathology, and soil science.

Receive rigorous laboratory training, with opportunities to join faculty research projects at Stockbridge School of Agriculture or in any UMass science department, or to propose and pursue your own independent research. Stockbridge offers direct access to top researchers from nine different countries, and UMass is ranked #1 in the U.S. for agricultural sciences. Graduates work in the private and public sectors, and many apply to graduate programs. An accelerated “5th year” master’s program can quickly make graduates more competitive in job markets.

Stockbridge facilities include newly renovated plant and soil labs, a technology-enabled research greenhouse, an agricultural learning center, a research farm, vineyards, orchards, and a cranberry station.