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College of Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department of Soil and Crop Sciences
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      • B.S. Plant and Environmental Soil Science
        • Crops Emphasis
        • Soil and Water Emphasis
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Five men stand in the middle of kyle field analyzing the grass

Ph.D. Programs

Looking to excel in the field of Soil and Crop Sciences? Texas A&M University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences offers top-notch Ph.D. programs in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences. With a focus on sustainable agriculture, crop production, and soil science, these programs prepare students for impactful careers. Supported by renowned faculty and advanced research facilities, students engage in cutting-edge research to address pressing challenges in agriculture and food security. The collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of the department ensures a dynamic learning environment. Earn your Ph.D. at Texas A&M University and become a leader in advancing agricultural practices and shaping the future of global food systems.

Request Information about the Program

Requirements Leading to the Doctor of Philosophy Degree

64 graduate credit hours beyond the M.S. degree; general requirements are:

  • A minimum of 3 graded course hours is required; however, most committee chairs and advisory committees demand from 20 to 30 semester hours of classroom study, which may include courses in departments other than soil and crop sciences.
  • Graduate seminar (1 hr.)
  • A dissertation written on original research as directed by the student’s advisory committee

Students who accumulate more that 99 semester credit hours may be required to pay out-of-state tuition on any additional hours.

96 graduate credit hours beyond a B.S. degree; general requirements are:

  • A minimum of 26 graded course hours is required; however, most committee chairs and advisory committees expect 40 or more semester credit hours of classroom study, which may include courses in departments other than soil and crop sciences.
  • Graduate seminar (1 hr.)
  • A dissertation written on original research as directed by the students advisory committee.

Students who accumulate more that 99 semester credit hours may be required to pay out-of-state tuition on any additional hours.

Ph.D. Program Requirements

Ph.D. Programs

Agronomy

Unlock advanced agricultural expertise with a Ph.D. in Agronomy, specializing in crop science, soil management, and sustainable farming practices.

Genetics

Expand your horizons with a Ph.D. in Genetics, focusing on advanced genetic research, analysis, and breakthrough discoveries.

Molecular and Environmental Plant Sciences

Lead the way in sustainable agriculture with a Ph.D. in Environmental Plant Sciences, specializing in plant ecology and conservation.

Plant Breeding

Shape the future of agriculture with a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, specializing in advanced crop genetics and innovative breeding techniques.

Plant Breeding Distance Education

Our fully on-line plant breeding graduate degree programs offer students the flexibility to pursue a higher degree while maintaining employment, personal, and other commitments.

Soil Science

Become a soil science expert with a Ph.D. in Soil Science, specializing in sustainable soil management and environmental conservation.

Water Management and Hydrologic Science

Make a splash in water management with a Ph.D. in Water Management and Hydrologic Science, specializing in sustainable water resources and hydrology.

Distance Education

The Department of Soil and Crop Sciences at Texas A&M University offers a wide range of distance education opportunities.  The plant breeding distance education program offers online Masters and Ph.D. degrees in Plant Breeding as well as a robust continuing education program for agriculture professionals seeking further plant breeding education but who are not interested in a degree program.  Additionally, the Regulatory Science in Food Systems program, administered by the Office of the Texas State Chemist, provides professional development in the field of regulatory science through an online graduate Certificate in Regulatory Science in Food Systems or online professional development courses.

Learn more about Distance Education

Graduate Admissions

Texas A&M University is the premier choice to gain a graduate degree, thanks to our national academic ranking and high financial value. Joining the Aggie Family and gaining an advanced degree from Texas A&M puts students in the highest class of job candidates.

Learn more about Graduate Admissions
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International Students

Official TOEFL scores are required for international applicants. Official scores must be sent by ETS directly to Texas A&M University using the school code: 6003. Visit the Graduate and Professional School website for a list of requirements, exemptions and other useful information regarding the TOEFL/IELTS Exams.

International Student Resources

Admissions Decisions

Students will receive an admissions decision either in a letter from the Texas A&M University Office of Admissions or from the department.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

By submitting a financial aid application through the university, students are reviewed for all the types of financial aid that they are eligible for. Remember: each student’s financial aid eligibility may vary. The types of financial aid students are offered is based on the data provided on their financial aid and/or scholarship application.

Contact Us

  • McClosky,  Beth Ann

    Beth Ann McClosky

    Program Coordinator II

    979-321-5902

    [email protected]

    434AA Heep Center

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6370 Olsen Blvd. TAMU 2474, College Station, TX 77843
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Department of Soil and Crop Sciences

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