This dual-track specialization focuses on the challenges of soil quality management and the evaluation and care of soils by understanding the biological, chemical and physical properties of soil and their effects on plants.<br><br>Courses include the principles of soil-water behavior, fertilizer use efficiency and soil ecology in order to influence the sustainability and quality of soil-water resources. Other classes provide students with advanced knowledge of the dynamic interaction between the soil environment, including soil morphology and soil forming factors, soil chemistry, soil physics and soil microbiology.<br><br>Faculty collaboration and undergraduate research equip our students to face a variety of challenges requiring expertise in soil resources. Graduates of our two Soil Science specialization tracks embark on exciting soil-related careers in private industry, universities, regulatory bodies, state conservation and federal agencies, such as Illinois/U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the state Soil-Water Conservation Service.