College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences

Soil Science

College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences

Soil Science

Root Your Career in Sustainability
with a bachelor's in Soil Science from NMSU

The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Soil Science program at New Mexico State University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of soil's physical, chemical and biological properties, emphasizing their role in agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. This program offers three specialized tracks: Soil, Environmental and Resource Management and Soil and Water Science, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests and career goals. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in various sectors including agriculture, environmental consulting and government agencies, where they can apply their expertise to address challenges related to soil health, land management and ecological conservation.

Learn more about the experience
Quick Facts

Admission Deadlines

There are no fixed deadlines*


  • Total classes: 40
  • Total credit hours: 120
  • Cost per credit hour: $223.58**

Delivery Format

In-person

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Career Pathways

Graduates of NMSU’s Soil Science program are skilled in analyzing and managing soil resources to support sustainable agriculture, environmental protection and land use planning, with hands-on experience in soil classification, fertility and conservation practices.

  • Soil Scientist
  • Agronomist
  • Land Use Planner
  • Water Resource Technician
  • Extension Agent
  • Soil Lab Technician
Student kneeling down and inspecting the soil.
Three different soil samples laying on a white canvas.
Three different soil samples laying on a white canvas.

Degree questions, answered

Have questions about the Bachelor of Soil Science? Fill out our inquiry form.

The Experience

Turn Your Passion for the Land into Impact with Soil Science at NMSU

Students interested in the Soil Science degree program at New Mexico State University are typically passionate about agriculture, environmental sustainability and natural resource management. They enjoy working outdoors, conducting scientific research and solving real-world challenges related to soil health, water conservation and land use.

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Scholarships Available

Get up to 100% of tuition covered with the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship.**

Environment and Resource Management - focuses on the study and management of soil as a vital natural resource. This program emphasizes understanding soil's physical, chemical and biological properties, and how these influence environmental quality and land use.

The Bachelor of Science in Soil Science with the Environment and Resource Management concentration consists of 120 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all Plant and Environmental Sciences core courses, and all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements,  Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above.

Take classes in:

  • GEOL 1110G – Physical Geology
  • SOIL 370 – Environmental Soil Science
  • SOIL 456 – Irrigation and Drainage
  • SOIL 476- Soil Microbiology
View more courses and degree road map

Soil and Water Science - focuses on the intricate relationship between soil properties and water dynamics. This program emphasizes understanding soil's physical, chemical and biological characteristics and how they influence water movement, retention, and availability.

The Bachelor of Science in Soil Science with the Soil and Water Science concentration consists of 120 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all Plant and Environmental Sciences core courses, and all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above.

Take classes in:

  • GEOL 1110G – Physical Geology
  • SOIL 370 – Environmental Soil Science
  • SOIL 456 – Irrigation and Drainage
  • SOIL 476- Soil Microbiology
View more courses and degree road map
Soils - focuses on the study of soil's physical, chemical and biological properties and their management for agricultural and non-agricultural uses. This program emphasizes soil management, conservation and reclamation, preparing students for careers in industries such as environmental consulting, government agencies and agricultural sectors.

The Bachelor of Science in Soil Science with the Soils concentration consists of 120 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all Plant and Environmental Sciences core courses, and all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above.

Take classes in:

  • GEOL 1110G – Physical Geology
  • SOIL 370 – Environmental Soil Science
  • SOIL 456 – Irrigation and Drainage
  • SOIL 476- Soil Microbiology
View more courses and degree road map
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Scholarships and Financial Aid

At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.

Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.

NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.



Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu

Accreditation

New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.