Crop and Weed Science

Crop and Weed Sciences Major

Instruction in crop and weed sciences includes field and forage crop production and management, weed science, general and plant genetics, plant breeding, and biotechnology. The study of botany and other plant sciences, entomology, plant pathology, and soil science is basic or related to crop and weed sciences. Students may obtain either a major or minor. The Crop and Weed Sciences major or minor is intended for general use in sales, research, and technical services (crop consultant) of agribusinesses involved in seed, chemical, and other plant production, protection, and management aspects; in natural resources conservation service; by those interested in production agriculture; or as a prerequisite for graduate study. For more details on M.S. and Ph.D. degrees, see the Graduate School Bulletin.

Curriculum Options

Students select one of the following options within Crop and Weed Sciences:

• Agronomy: This option is for students most interested in production agriculture. This is the most popular option with students and provides the most flexibility of free elective course selection. Completing the basic crop and weed sciences curriculum fulfills this option.
• Biotechnology: This option is intended for students who wish to work in the biotechnology industry or pursue graduate study in the crop biotechnology area. Students interested in biotechnology also may pursue the interdisciplinary Biotechnology major.
• Science: This option is intended for students who are interested in laboratory careers or who want more basic science courses as a foundation for graduate studies.
• Weed Science: This option is intended for students interested in crop consulting, weed science, or integrated pest management. Additional courses in pest management are required to provide exposure to common issues encountered in these careers and practice in diagnosis and resolution.

Special Opportunities

Agronomy Club: The Agronomy Club meets twice each month. Members join in campus and community activities, arrange speakers on agricultural topics, and participate in meetings and contests at the regional and national levels. The club also coordinates tours to local agribusinesses to gain a better perspective of career opportunities. Students with an interest in agriculture are encouraged to attend, regardless of chosen major.

Crop and Weed Sciences Minor

Students may minor in Crop and Weed Sciences by selecting a total of 18 credits of study in crop and weed sciences or closely related fields.

Plan of Study

Please note this is a sample plan of study and not an official curriculum.  Actual student schedules for each semester will vary depending on start year, education goals, applicable transfer credit, and course availability. Students are encouraged to work with their academic advisor on a regular basis to review degree progress and customize an individual plan of study.