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Soil/Plant Scientist

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AVG. SALARY

$69,610

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EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources cluster Plant Systems pathway.

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Bachelor's degree

Soil and plant scientists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited postsecondary institution, although many earn advanced degrees.

Insider Info

Additional Information

The minimum educational requirement for this field is a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, agronomy, engineering or environmental studies. To get out of the field and into the lab, most soil scientists recommend a master's degree.

"With only a bachelor's degree, you'll probably end up in the field for the remainder of your career, doing somebody else's research," says soil scientist John Beck.

A strong background in math and science is necessary for admission into graduate soil science programs.

Extra Requirements

Some states require soil scientists to be licensed to practice. Licensing requirements vary by state, but generally include holding a bachelor's degree. Certifications are generally not required for agriculture and food scientists, but they can be useful in advancing one's career. Certifications are available from the American Society of Agronomy, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), or the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA), and others.

For additional information, visit these websites:

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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OCAP believes that financial literacy and understanding the financial aid process are critical aspects of college planning and student success. OCAP staff who work with students, parents, educators and community partners in the areas of personal finance education, state and federal financial aid, and student loan management do not provide financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice. This website and all information provided is for general educational purposes only, and is not intended to be construed as financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice.