Soil and land resources

Doctor of Philosophy

Danny at the Soil Stewards Student Farm helped to install the weather station there as part of a research project

Unearth soil solutions

Advance sustainable solutions for today’s critical environmental and agricultural challenges. The Ph.D. in soil and land resources prepares you for leadership in soil science, environmental quality and land management.

This research-intensive program offers the flexibility to tailor your coursework and research to areas like soil fertility, soil biology, environmental chemistry, water quality and soil genesis. Working closely with expert faculty, you’ll conduct original research addressing local, regional and global issues related to soil and environmental sustainability — positioning you for careers in academia, government agencies, industry and nonprofit organizations.

Highlights from the Ph.D. in soil and land resources:

  • Enjoy access to our collection of more than 240 soil monoliths, the largest in the Western U.S.
  • Conduct a wide variety of soil analysis in our Soil Sciences Laboratory
  • Work with our scientists who have unlocked secrets of Brassica plants
  • Work on cutting-edge research projects funded through the USDA, NSF, DOE, NASA and other agencies
  • Participate in interdisciplinary programs such as environmental science and water resources
Overview
Duration:
2 year, 30 credits
Locations:
Moscow

Related Topics

SustainabilityEnvironmental science

Uncover soil ecosystems

Degree fit

This program could be a good fit if you:

  • Hold a science-related undergraduate degree
  • Can think critically about complex problems
  • Are interested in sustainable agriculture and the environment
  • Want to conduct independent research in the field
  • Have strong computer and communication skills
Career outcomes

Current job openings

2,254 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HI

Potential careers and starting salaries

  • Sustainability Specialists
    $55,170
  • Postsecondary Environmental Science Teachers
    $48,689
  • Regulatory Affairs Managers • Compliance Managers • Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
    $48,420
  • Environmental Compliance Inspectors
    $53,187
  • Water/Wastewater Engineers
    $71,940
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Career Services

* Career data provided by Lightcast.

Financial aid and scholarship opportunities

Financial aid

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.

For information on FAFSA deadlines, financial aid types and eligibility requirements, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.

Plan ahead—estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.

Clubs and involvement opportunities

Hands-on learning

  • Soil monolith collection
  • Soil Sciences Laboratory
  • Plant Science farm
  • Research and Extension centers
  • Inland Northwest Research Alliance, Idaho National Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratories

Clubs

Application information

Applicants for the master’s in soil and land resources program must meet the following admission requirements:

  • Education level: Bachelor's
  • Undergraduate GPA: 3.0
  • GRE: No
  • TOEFL/IELTS: 79/6.5
  • Number of references: 3
  • Other requirements: Students are encouraged to secure a commitment from a faculty for admission to the program.

Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.

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