What is cropping systems science?
Cropping systems science is all about finding solutions to big challenges that affect crops and the environment, including climate change impacts, water quality and plant diseases. You’ll also explore how to address issues like world hunger and polluted soil. If you want to make a real difference, this major can prepare you to become a professional agronomist, crop scientist, soil scientist or environmentalist.
What you'll learn
With this cropping systems science major, you will learn how to:
- analyze and understand advanced soil and crop systems;
- communicate data and high-level analysis to farmers across Michigan and beyond;
- use resources and hands-on learning opportunities at the Kellogg Biological Station to gain experience on a working farm.
Why study cropping systems science at MSU?
As a student, you’ll team up with faculty to work with growers and farmers around the world to produce high-quality crops while helping protect local environments.
By working with faculty in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, you’ll learn how plants grow and how plant diseases spread. You’ll also explore the ways soil, water and the environment work together to help keep farming and ecosystems sustainable and affordable.
Specialized concentrations
Crop and soil sciences studies and research areas include:
- Crop physiology and management
- Environmental soil sciences
- Microbial ecology
- Plant pathology
- Plant breeding and genetics
- Production ecology
- Soil fertility and management
- Turfgrass science
- Weed science
Courses you'll take
Students take courses in:
- Crop production
- Physiology
- Genetics
- Precision agriculture
- Pest management
- Soil science
- Meteorology
- Professional development and career preparation in cropping systems science
Hands-on learning opportunities
You’ll have opportunities to participate in research labs led by faculty in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences. By working on projects and getting involved in student organizations, you can build experience that helps you practice your skills and stand out on job applications.
