Location:

Winnipeg, Canada

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

Agricultural Science & Agronomy

Program Overview

Program Description:

The Department of Soil Science offers graduate instruction leading to M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees. Students select one of the following four programs: Fundamental Soil Science Agricultural Science Agrometeorology Environmental Science Graduate students are required to obtain a comprehensive knowledge of soil science, but the department permits considerable variation in the selection of courses depending on the background of the student and the particular area of specialization. Graduates with knowledge or a major in soil science have had excellent career opportunities with agribusiness, environmental land use agencies or firms, and government agencies. M.Sc. and Ph.D. graduates are often employed in land inventory activities, research in the various areas of fundamental and applied soil science, expert positions in environmental or agronomic land use, and environmental consulting and extension. The Department of Soil Science has a long history of contributing to the agricultural and environmental sustainability of land resources. Teaching and research was initiated in the mid-1920s, playing an important role in national and international work over the years. Currently, teaching and research is focused on the sustainability and productivity of the land base, enhancement of crop and livestock production, and maintenance of soil, air, water, and food quality as affected by agricultural and other human activities. The Department has an excellent working relationship with scientists at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Several of these scientists are adjunct professors, and undertake the funding and supervision of graduate student thesis research. The Department also has joint projects with the Freshwater Institute, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Environment Canada and the Canadian Forest Service, and works directly with Manitoba Agriculture and other members of the agri-food and environmental industries.

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

No accreditation exists for this program

Financial Aid:

Yes

Requirements:

Candidates must have a four-year Bachelor of Science degree for admission to the graduate program. Students with a three-year undergraduate are required to take a pre-Master’s program as indicated by the entrance requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies. The Soil Science Graduate Studies Committee evaluates the adequacy of the background of each applicant. Normally, students should have a strong background in soil science (at least 12 credit hours) and/or a strong background in the basic science related to the student’s area of study. Financial support for the student’s program is a condition of acceptance. See the Department website for full admission requirements. All applicants must also meet the minimum admission requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Possible Start Dates September, January, May