Get your hands dirty online

Healthy soil is the foundation for all life on Earth. We rely on it for the sustainability of our food systems, clean drinking water and overall biodiversity. Yet today, soil has also become one of our most vulnerable resources, in need of protection from widespread degradation, erosion and desertification. Oregon State University is a national leader in the field of crop and soil science, and the state of Oregon is home to an incredible diversity of climates and soils  — if it’s out there, we study it here at Oregon State.

When you earn a bachelor’s degree in crop and soil science online through Oregon State University, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills you need to improve the future of farming and the natural resource systems where you live. You’ll learn how to yield crops that provide better nutrition with fewer chemical inputs, and what it takes to develop agricultural ecosystems that are resilient in the face of climate change.

Crop and soil science instructor Alyssa DuVal helped create a virtual greenhouse for Ecampus students to explore a 3D environment and discover distinguishing factors to help identify specific plants. Read more »

Specialization options

This online bachelor’s degree program allows you to choose between three specialization options, so you can tailor your studies to the work you’re most passionate about.

Soil science option

Through custom lab kits with 3D printed soil models, virtual reality, augmented reality and other advanced techniques, you’ll learn the physical, chemical and biological properties of soil. You’ll explore issues like water quality, organic crop production, erosion and sedimentation, land use and reclamation, and soil health and sustainability.

Agronomy option

Acquire the skills necessary to be an active participant in producing food, feed, fiber and energy crops for the world when you pursue the agronomy option. Through innovative technologies, you’ll learn how to choose plant materials and agricultural practices that will optimize plant production while minimizing environmental impact.

Plant breeding, genetics and genomics option

Gain fundamental knowledge in plant breeding and genetic analysis that can be applied to a range of horticultural crops, forestry products, and agronomic food and feed crops. In addition to many other important qualities, plant breeders work to develop crops with stronger yields, better disease resistance and increased tolerance to climate change.

Benefits of learning online with Oregon State

• All classes are developed by OSU's world-class faculty, who are known worldwide for their research, expertise and innovation.
• Oregon State is institutionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
• Oregon State Ecampus is consistently ranked among the nation's 10 best providers of online education according to U.S. News & World Report.
• OSU Ecampus students receive the same diploma as on-campus students.

Get the support you need

Our goal is to help you succeed. That’s why, as an OSU Ecampus student, you’ll have access to vital resources like success coaching, library services, free online tutoring and career guidance – making your online learning experience collaborative and rewarding.

Upcoming Ecampus information sessions

Attend one of our upcoming events to talk with Ecampus about how to enroll and learn more about the online student experience.

See all upcoming Ecampus information sessions »