Soil science is the study of soil as a natural resource on the surface of the Earth including soil formation, classification and mapping; physical, chemical, biological, and fertility properties of soils; and these properties in relation to the use and management of soils.
About Programme:
The programme was introduced in 1994 and has graduated many students. Though the demand for the expertise of ‘pure’ Soil Scientist has dwindled in the job market, there are applicants especially those already in the field who often opt for this ‘pure’ soil science.
This is because the dependence on and curiosity about soil, exploring the diversity and dynamics of this resource continues to yield fresh discoveries and insights.
New avenues of soil research are compelled by a need to understand soil in the context of climate change, greenhouse gases, and carbon sequestration.
Entry Requirements:
Candidates with MSc/M.Phil. degree from a recognized University in Agriculture, Biological Science, Soil Science, Environmental Science, Land Resources Management, Renewable Natural Resources and other related Earth Sciences
Goal / Objectives:
To make students appreciate the need to preserve soil and arable land in the world with the growing population, possible future water crisis, increasing per capita food consumption and land degradation.
To expose students to the scientific principles of pollution at chemical levels and soil management in order to enable them to approach environmental issues in a realistic way.
Career Opportunities:
Employment Prospects of Graduates:
List of sectors of the economy that could employ graduates of the programme include:
Soil Research Institute
Ministry of Food and Agriculture
Universities
Crop Research Institute
Environmental Protection Agency
Multilateral organizations and Banks
NGOs