Crop and Soil Science Department
The discipline of crop science provides the knowledge and understanding of technologies that contribute directly to improvements in production and quality of food, feed, fiber, seed, energy, and nutraceutical crops for the world. The art and science of plant improvement are key elements in efforts to feed, clothe and provide energy for the world’s ever-growing population. Conventional and molecular tools assist in the development of new genetic strains of food and energy crops. Crop plants play an important role in the future of sustainable food and energy production.
The discipline of soil science provides the basic understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of this important natural resource. Why is soil important? Soil is the fundamental substrate for life on terrestrial landscapes. Soil plays a vital role in sustaining human welfare and assuring future agricultural productivity and environmental stability. An understanding of global and local ecology depends on an awareness of the soil and its properties. Global information and mapping systems are essential tools for characterizing the landscape and its constituent soils.
Agronomists are crop and soil scientists who work to improve crops and agricultural productivity while effectively managing pests and weeds. Students in crop and soil science explore important contemporary issues faced by our society, including water quality and management, sustainability of different types of crop production, organic crop production, erosion and sedimentation, growing crops for biofuel production, land use and reclamation, genetic modification of crop plants, and soil quality and sustainability. An array of careers is available.
Career Opportunities
Careers for crop scientists are available in business, industry, farming, research, agricultural chemical industries, seed production, seed technology, communications, conservation, and education. Positions are available in agricultural experiment stations and extension services, state departments of agriculture, food processing companies, insurance agencies, lending institutions, and commercial firms, both domestic and international, dealing in the processing and sale of farm products, chemicals, and seed.
Careers for soil scientists are available in agriculture, forestry, education, state and federal resource agencies, private consulting, and research. Farms, ranches, and agricultural supply companies employ soil scientists as managers or field representatives. Soil scientists may become teachers of vocational agriculture or environmental education, or they may become county extension agents in agriculture or natural resources. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service often employ soil scientists, as do private consulting firms in environmental engineering and land use planning.
Academic Advising
Undergraduate curricula in crop and soil science are flexible enough to provide for the student's individual professional needs and interests and for a broad-based general education by allowing electives in other colleges throughout the university. Undergraduate advising is a vital part of the program, and the department is well known for excellence in advising. The department has a head advisor who meets with all students each term. Advisors and faculty provide curricular guidance and aid in professional extracurricular activities, career decisions, and job placement.
Scholarships
The Department of Crop and Soil Science administers a number of scholarships available only to students majoring in the department. Over $40,000 is given to students each year.
Student Clubs
The department supports a Crop Science Club that provides valuable co-curricular professional development, a collegiate Soil Judging Team that participates in both regional and national competitions, the OSU Organic Growers Club that provides hands-on experience in organic production of vegetable crops, and the OSU Bug Club, a student club whose members are actively engaged in insect education outreach to local schools and communities. Graduate students in soil science also have a student club.
Undergraduate Programs
Major
Minors
Graduate Programs
Majors
- Crop Science (MAIS, MS, PhD)
Graduate Options - Soil Science (MAIS, MS, PhD)
Affiliated Interdisciplinary
Graduate Major
Graduate Minors
Jay Noller, Head
107 Crop Science
3017 Ag and Life Sciences
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR 97331
541-737-2821
Email: jay.noller@oregonstate.edu
Website: http://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/
Faculty
Professors Bottomley, Butler (emeritus), Corp, Dragila, Hannaway, Hayes, Karow (emeritus), Kling (sr. research), Lajtha, Machado, Macnab, Mallory-Smith, Myrold, Noller, Rao, Reitz, Ross, Shock, Stephenson, Tuck, Young (emeritus), Zemetra
Associate Professors Angima, Baham (emeritus), Bohle, Chastain, Elias (sr. research), Felix, Flowers, Hulting, Kleber, Lutcher, Nonogaki, Parke (sr. research), Rondon, Roseberg, Schrumpf (seed certification, emeritus), D. Sullivan, Walenta, Wysocki
Assistant Professors N. Anderson, Dreves (sr. research), Leonard (sr. research), Pett-Ridge, C. Sullivan, Townsend (sr. research)
Senior Instructors Cassidy, Charlton, Fery, McMorran (seed certification)
Instructors Buhrig, Burr (seed certification), A. Hunt, Japhet, Maley, Shafa (seed certification), S. Smith (seed certification), Zielinski (seed certification)
Courtesy Faculty
Professors Brilman, Brown, Griffith, Olszyk, Peterson
Associate Professors Henning, Mueller-Warrant, Riera-Lizaraz, Vales
Assistant Professors M. Johnson, M. Rogers, Weisbrod
Professional Faculty
Curry, Garay, Lewis, Lundeen
Crop Science
CROP 101. INTRODUCTION TO CROP, SOIL, AND INSECT SCIENCE. (1 Credit)
Introduces students with interests in crop, soil, and insect sciences to educational and professional opportunities in these disciplines. Speakers will discuss opportunities in research and academia as well as in the applied professional job market. Open to all students. CROSSLISTED as ENT 101, SOIL 101.
CROP 199. SPECIAL STUDIES: ISSUES IN SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE. (1-16 Credits)
Invited speakers present seminars on specific aspects of agriculture relating to sustainability. Topics vary from term to term and year to year. May be repeated for credit when topics differ.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 200. CROP ECOLOGY AND MORPHOLOGY. (3 Credits)
An introduction to the concepts and principles of crop ecology and morphology and a foundation for other crop science courses. Examines the dynamics and function of crop communities, and the biotic and environmental interactions that influence productivity. Fundamentals of the developmental morphology of crop seeds, seedlings, and plants. Morphological features of seeds and plants in relation to the identification of crop families and species of economic importance.
CROP 280. INTRODUCTION TO THE COMPLEXITY OF OREGON CROPPING SYSTEMS. (4 Credits)
An introduction to field cropping systems of western Oregon. Provides students with a broad overview of the complexity of cropping systems and the knowledge required to grow and produce a crop--plant physiology, seed biology, plant pathology, soil fertility, entomology, and weed science. Students will observe a crop under different management strategies to enhance understanding of management approaches.
CROP 300. CROP PRODUCTION IN PACIFIC NORTHWEST AGROECOSYSTEMS. (4 Credits)
Relation of crop production to human culture and the natural environment. Origins of agriculture and the processes of agricultural change, and productivity and sustainability of specific crop production systems in the Pacific Northwest. History, geography, resource requirements, and key challenges faced are presented. Fundamental crop production practices in relation to productivity and sustainability. Lec/lab/rec. CROSSLISTED as HORT 300.
Recommended: One year of general biology
CROP 310. FORAGE PRODUCTION. (4 Credits)
Importance of, and current production practices for, forage crops. Lec/lab.
Recommended: (CSS 300 or CROP 300 or HORT 300) and (CSS 305 or CSS 205 or SOIL 205)
CROP 319. PRINCIPLES OF FIELD CROP PRODUCTION. (3 Credits)
Provides students with an understanding of the basic principles of field crop production--tillage, soil testing, fertilization, variety selection, planting, and in-season crop management. Management practices for wheat, corn and soybean as .
CROP 330. *WORLD FOOD CROPS. (3 Credits)
Origin, production, utilization, and improvement of the world's major food crops. The role of crop production in global economic and social development; food security and worldwide nutritional requirements. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CSGI – Core, Synth, Global Issues
Recommended: CSS 200 or CROP 200
CROP 340. *PENS AND PLOWS: WRITINGS OF WORKING THE LAND. (3 Credits)
A survey of literature from ancient Greece to the twentieth century focusing on the significance of agricultural life and/or the natural world. Students read and discuss writings considered critical in the development of Western culture and receive input on the literary significance and the accuracy of agriculture presented within the readings. (Bacc Core Course) Taught via Ecampus only.
Attributes: CPWC – Core, Pers, West Culture
CROP 355. ORGANIC CERTIFICATION. (3 Credits)
Learn about the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) standards relating to certified operations, inspection, certification processes, and labeling. Focus on the crops, processing, and livestock aspects of organic certification for farms and food manufacturing operations.
CROP 401. RESEARCH. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 403. THESIS. (1-16 Credits)
Independent, original study and preparation of a senior thesis.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 405. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
Equivalent to: CROP 405H, CSS 405
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 405H. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: CROP 405, CSS 405H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 407. SEMINAR. (1 Credit)
Senior seminar intended to instruct students on proper techniques for presentation of scientific material. Each student is expected to prepare and present a scientific seminar and to submit written documentation supporting that seminar.
CROP 410. INTERNSHIP. (1-6 Credits)
Professional work experience previously approved and supervised by the department, written report required.
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
CROP 414. PRECISION AGRICULTURE. (4 Credits)
Provides insight into the technology available to support precision agriculture and data management planning applications. Examines the concepts and applications of precision agriculture to teach practical use of hardware, equipment and software. An overview of current technology including autonomous vehicles, GPS, soil and crop proximal sensors, imagery and mapping, variable rate control systems, and yield monitors. Lec/lab. CROSSLISTED as HORT 414.
Equivalent to: HORT 414
CROP 418. TOXIC PLANTS IN PNW PASTURES. (1 Credit)
Identifying and understanding ecology and biology of harmful weeds and poisonous plants found in Pacific Northwest pastures and rangelands and determining best management and control options. Taught via Ecampus only.
Recommended: College-level plant biology and/or taxonomy courses.
CROP 420. SEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY. (3 Credits)
Seed formation and factors affecting their development and maturation. Seed structure and chemical composition. Physiological and biochemical aspects of seed germination, dormancy, deterioration and storability. The concept of seed quality, its importance in agriculture, its attributes and impact on field performance. Methods of measuring seed quality of conventional and genetically modified seeds. Taught via Ecampus only.
Recommended: Biology, plant anatomy and/or physiology courses
CROP 433. SYSTEMATICS AND ADAPTATION OF VEGETABLE CROPS. (4 Credits)
Covers the botanical and taxonomic relationships, breeding systems and adaptation of vegetable crops. Fresh material is used to illustrate varietal differences and traits of importance. Lec/lab. Offered even years. CROSSLISTED as HORT 433/HORT 533.
Prerequisites: BI 102 with D- or better or BI 213 with D- or better or BI 311 with D- or better or HORT 430 with D- or better or CSS 430 with D- or better or PBG 430 with D- or better or HORT 450 with D- or better or CSS 450 with D- or better or PBG 450 with D- or better
CROP 440. WEED MANAGEMENT. (4 Credits)
Principles of weed control by cultural, biological, and chemical means; weed identification; introduction to herbicides and factors influencing their use. Lec/lab/rec.
Recommended: One year biological science and one course in organic chemistry.
CROP 460. SEED PRODUCTION. (3 Credits)
An introduction to principles and practices of seed-based genetic delivery systems. Fundamentals of seed crop biology, cultivar maintenance and production methods are stressed. Concepts are illustrated using Pacific Northwest seed crops.
Recommended: CROP 200 or CSS 200
CROP 463. SEED BIOLOGY. (3 Credits)
Information about reproductive development of plants such as pollination and fertilization, which is important for the initiation of seed formation, will be provided. Embryo and endosperm development as well as accumulation of seed storage materials, which are major events during seed development, will be covered, as well as the dormancy and germination mechanisms in mature seeds. Lectures and discussions (presentations required for graduate students). Offered even years. CROSSLISTED as HORT 463/HORT 563. Lec/lab.
Equivalent to: HORT 463
CROP 470. OILSEEDS AND ESSENTIAL OIL CROPS. (3 Credits)
Provides students with an understanding of the principles and the latest research information of field crop production, chemistry, oil extraction and utilization of OEOC. Includes the importance of OEOC, their uses, current trends, production systems for major crops, harvesting, drying, processing, and other post-harvest operations, fixed (fatty acid) and essential oil extraction methods, and oil utilization. Relevant recent research and review papers will be also included and the information discussed and assessed.
Prerequisites: CROP 200 with D- or better
CROP 480. CASE STUDIES IN CROPPING SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT. (4 Credits)
Decision cases involving the production of field and horticultural crops; individual and group activities; discussion of the decision-making process. Multiple field trips required. A field trip fee will be charged. CROSSLISTED as HORT 480/HORT 580.
Equivalent to: HORT 480
CROP 499. SPECIAL TOPICS IN CROP SCIENCE AND SOIL SCIENCE. (1-16 Credits)
Technical knowledge and skills development courses offered in a wide array of course formats. Topics vary from term to term and year to year. May be repeated for credit when topics differ.
Equivalent to: CROP 499H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 499H. SPECIAL TOPICS IN CROP SCIENCE AND SOIL SCIENCE. (1-16 Credits)
Technical knowledge and skills development courses offered in a wide array of course formats. Topics vary from term to term and year to year. May be repeated for credit when topics differ.
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: CROP 499
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 501. RESEARCH. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 503. THESIS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
CROP 505. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 506. PROJECTS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 507. SEMINAR. (1 Credit)
Graded P/N.
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
CROP 509. PRACTICUM IN TEACHING. (1-3 Credits)
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional material by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures. CROSSLISTED as ENT 509, PBG 509, SOIL 509.
Equivalent to: ENT 509, PBG 509, SOIL 509
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
CROP 514. PRECISION AGRICULTURE. (4 Credits)
Provides insight into the technology available to support precision agriculture and data management planning applications. Examines the concepts and applications of precision agriculture to teach practical use of hardware, equipment and software. An overview of current technology including autonomous vehicles, GPS, soil and crop proximal sensors, imagery and mapping, variable rate control systems, and yield monitors. Lec/lab.
CROP 520. SEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY. (3 Credits)
Seed formation and factors affecting their development and maturation. Seed structure and chemical composition. Physiological and biochemical aspects of seed germination, dormancy, deterioration and storability. The concept of seed quality, its importance in agriculture, its attributes and impact on field performance. Methods of measuring seed quality of conventional and genetically modified seeds. Taught via Ecampus only.
Recommended: Biology, plant anatomy and/or physiology courses
CROP 530. ORGANIC SOIL AND CROP MANAGEMENT. (3 Credits)
Overview of organic soil and crop management, organic soil system management, soil microbiology under organic systems, cropping systems, organic cereal production systems, organic forage production system, organic horticultural systems management, organic field and horticulture cropping systems; recent research and case studies. CROSSLISTED AS SOIL 530.
Equivalent to: SOIL 530
Recommended: SOIL 525, CROP 200, SOIL 205 or introductory biology. Completion or concurrent enrollment in AGRI 520
CROP 533. SYSTEMATICS AND ADAPTATION OF VEGETABLE CROPS. (4 Credits)
Covers the botanical and taxonomic relationships, breeding systems and adaptation of vegetable crops. Fresh material is used to illustrate varietal differences and traits of importance. Lec/lab. CROSSLISTED as HORT 433/HORT 533.
Recommended: BI 102 or BI 213 or BI 311 or HORT 430 or CSS 430 or PBG 430 or HORT 450 or CSS 450 or PBG 450
CROP 540. WEED MANAGEMENT. (4 Credits)
Principles of weed control by cultural, biological, and chemical means; weed identification; introduction to herbicides and factors influencing their use. Lec/lab/rec.
Recommended: One year biological science and one course in organic chemistry.
CROP 560. SEED PRODUCTION. (3 Credits)
An introduction to principles and practices of seed-based genetic delivery systems. Fundamentals of seed crop biology, cultivar maintenance and production methods are stressed. Concepts are illustrated using Pacific Northwest seed crops.
Recommended: CROP 200 or CSS 200
CROP 563. SEED BIOLOGY. (3 Credits)
Information about reproductive development of plants such as pollination and fertilization, which is important for the initiation of seed formation, will be provided. Embryo and endosperm development as well as accumulation of seed storage materials, which are major events during seed development, will be covered, as well as the dormancy and germination mechanisms in mature seeds. Lectures and discussions (presentations required for graduate students). Offered even years. CROSSLISTED as HORT 463/HORT 563. Lec/lab.
Equivalent to: HORT 563
CROP 570. OILSEEDS AND ESSENTIAL OIL CROPS. (3 Credits)
Provides students with an understanding of the principles and the latest research information of field crop production, chemistry, oil extraction and utilization of OEOC. Includes the importance of OEOC, their uses, current trends, production systems for major crops, harvesting, drying, processing, and other post-harvest operations, fixed (fatty acid) and essential oil extraction methods, and oil utilization. Relevant recent research and review papers will be also included and the information discussed and assessed.
Prerequisites: CROP 200 with D- or better
Recommended: Horticulture, biology or chemistry course
CROP 580. CASE STUDIES IN CROPPING SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT. (4 Credits)
Decision cases involving the production of field and horticultural crops; individual and group activities; discussion of the decision-making process. Multiple field trips required. A field trip fee will be charged. CROSSLISTED as HORT 480/HORT 580.
Equivalent to: HORT 580
CROP 590. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN IN AGRICULTURE. (4 Credits)
Field layout, analysis, and interpretation of basic experimental designs used in agronomy and plant breeding and including field plot techniques such as optimum plot size and shape, factorial arrangement, replication, sub-sampling, randomization, and blocking. Recitation provides practical experience with SAS. Lec/rec.
Recommended: ST 351
CROP 599. SPECIAL TOPICS IN CROP SCIENCE AND SOIL SCIENCE. (0-16 Credits)
Technical knowledge and skills development courses offered in a wide variety of course formats. Topics vary from term to term and year to year. May be repeated for credit when topics differ.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 601. RESEARCH. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 603. THESIS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
CROP 605. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 606. PROJECTS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 607. SEMINAR. (1 Credit)
Graded P/N.
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
CROP 608. WORKSHOP. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 609. PRACTICUM IN TEACHING. (1-3 Credits)
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional material by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures. Graded P/N.
Equivalent to: ENT 609, PBG 609, SOIL 609
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
CROP 660. HERBICIDE SCIENCE. (4 Credits)
Absorption, movement, and mechanism of action in plants; behavior of herbicides in soil. Offered alternate years.
Recommended: BOT 331 and (CSS 440 or CSS 540 or CROP 440 or CROP 540)
CROP 670. PHYSIOLOGY OF CROP YIELD. (3 Credits)
Concepts of crop growth and production in relation to environmental and physiological factors and their interactions; current literature.
Recommended: BOT 331
CROP 699. SPECIAL TOPICS IN CROP SCIENCE AND SOIL SCIENCE. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Crop and Soil Science
CSS 205. *SOIL SCIENCE. (4 Credits)
Introduction to the chemical, physical and biological nature of soils. Examines the functions of soil as a medium for plant growth, a recycling system for nutrients and wastes, a modifier of atmospheric chemistry, a habitat for soil organisms, a system for water purification, and an engineering medium. Field and laboratory projects provide an understanding of fundamental soil science principles and the impact of human activities on soil quality and sustainability. Lec/lab. (Bacc Core Course) Taught via Ecampus only.
Attributes: CPBS – Core, Pers, Biological Science; CPPS – Core, Pers, Physical Science
CSS 305. PRINCIPLES OF SOIL SCIENCE. (4 Credits)
Origin, formation, classification, physical, chemical, and biological characteristics; ecosystem functions of soils; effects of soil management on agricultural and forest crop production. Field trips. Taught at EOU LaGrande campus only.
Equivalent to: CSS 205, SOIL 205
Recommended: Two quarters of college chemistry and CSS 306
CSS 306. PROBLEM SOLVING: SOIL SCIENCE APPLICATIONS. (1 Credit)
Problem solving for, and in-depth exploration of, Principles of Soil Science (CSS 305). Real-world problems requiring knowledge of soil physical, chemical, and biological properties. Taught at EOU LaGrande campus only.
Corequisites: CSS 305
CSS 315. ^NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT AND CYCLING. (4 Credits)
Nutrient forms, transformations, and plant availability as influenced by chemical and biological reactions in soils; soil pH and management of acid and alkaline soils; characteristics and use of fertilizers, soil amendments and organic wastes. Labs include routine soil testing procedures, computer applications for soil fertility management, and field trips. Lec/lab. (Writing Intensive Course) Taught at EOU LaGrande campus only.
Attributes: CWIC – Core, Skills, WIC
Prerequisites: CSS 305 with D- or better
Recommended: CH 122 and courses in computers
CSS 320. PRINCIPLES OF OIL AND FIBER CROP PRODUCTION. (1 Credit)
An overview of production practices and characteristics of oil seed, essential oil, and fiber crops. Taught at EOU LaGrande campus only.
Recommended: CSS 300 and CSS 305
CSS 321. PRINCIPLES OF CEREAL CROP PRODUCTION. (1 Credit)
An overview of the principles underlying small grain production practices in the Pacific Northwest. Taught at EOU LaGrande campus only.
Recommended: CSS 300 and CSS 305
CSS 322. PRINCIPLES OF POTATO PRODUCTION. (1 Credit)
Principles and practices governing all aspects of potato production, storage and use. Taught at EOU LaGrande campus only.
Recommended: CSS 300 and CSS 305
Plant Breeding and Genetics
PBG 199. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Equivalent to: PBG 199H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 199H. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PBG 199
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 299. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Equivalent to: PBG 299H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 299H. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PBG 299
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 399. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 401. RESEARCH. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 403. THESIS. (1-16 Credits)
Graded P/N.
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
PBG 405. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
Equivalent to: PBG 405H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 405H. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PBG 405
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 407. SEMINAR. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 409. TEACHING PRACTICUM. (1-16 Credits)
Graded P/N.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 410. INTERNSHIP. (1-12 Credits)
Offered via Ecampus only.
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
PBG 430. PLANT GENETICS. (3 Credits)
Introduction to the principles of plant genetics with an emphasis on the structure and function of economically important plant genomes.
Recommended: One year of biology and chemistry.
PBG 431. PLANT GENETICS RECITATION. (1 Credit)
Review and demonstration of plant genetics principles.
PBG 441. PLANT TISSUE CULTURE. (4 Credits)
Principles, methods, and applications of plant tissue culture. Laboratory is important part of course. Topics include callus culture, regeneration, somaclonal variation, micropropagation, anther culture, somatic hybridization, and transformation. Lec/lab.
PBG 450. PLANT BREEDING. (4 Credits)
An introduction to the genetic improvement of self-pollinated, cross-pollinated, and asexually propagated species and the genetic principles on which breeding methods are based. Examples are drawn from a wide range of crops, including cereal grains, grasses, fruits, nuts, and vegetables; guest lecturers discuss their breeding programs. Additional topics include crop evaluation, germplasm preservation, disease resistance, and biotechnology. Lec/lab.
Prerequisites: PBG 430 with D- or better
PBG 499. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Equivalent to: PBG 499H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 499H. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: PBG 499
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 501. RESEARCH. (1-16 Credits)
Graded P/N.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 503. THESIS. (1-16 Credits)
Graded P/N.
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
PBG 505. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 506. PROJECTS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 507. SEMINAR. (1-16 Credits)
Graded P/N.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 508. WORKSHOP. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 509. PRACTICUM IN TEACHING. (1-3 Credits)
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional materials by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures. CROSSLISTED as ENT 509, CROP 509, SOIL 509.
Equivalent to: CROP 509, ENT 509, SOIL 509
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
PBG 510. INTERNSHIP. (4 Credits)
Offered via Ecampus only.
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
PBG 513. PLANT GENETIC ENGINEERING. (3 Credits)
Principles, methods, and recent developments in the genetic engineering of higher plants. Offered alternate years.
Recommended: (BI 311 and BOT 331) or (CSS 430 or CSS 530) or (HORT 430 or HORT 530) or (PBG 430 or PBG 530)
PBG 519. CURRENT TOPICS IN PLANT BREEDING AND GENETICS. (2 Credits)
Provides an advanced understanding of plant breeding and genetics and their relationship to other disciplines through critical analysis of the scientific literature. Students practice synthesizing information and presenting findings to peers. Instructors, topics, and specific learning objectives vary from term to term. CROSSLISTED as HORT 519.
Equivalent to: HORT 519
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
PBG 530. PLANT GENETICS. (3 Credits)
Introduction to the principles of plant genetics with an emphasis on the structure and function of economically important plant genomes.
Recommended: One year of biology and chemistry.
PBG 541. PLANT TISSUE CULTURE. (4 Credits)
Principles, methods, and applications of plant tissue culture. Laboratory is important part of course. Topics include callus culture, regeneration, somaclonal variation, micropropagation, anther culture, somatic hybridization, and transformation. Lec/lab. CROSSLISTED as MCB 541.
Equivalent to: MCB 541
PBG 550. PLANT BREEDING. (4 Credits)
An introduction to the genetic improvement of self-pollinated, cross-pollinated, and asexually propagated species and the genetic principles on which breeding methods are based. Example are drawn from a wide range of crops, including cereal grains, grasses, fruits, nuts, and vegetables; guest lecturers discuss their breeding programs. Additional topics include crop evaluation, germplasm preservation, disease resistance, and biotechnology. Lec/lab.
PBG 551. BREEDING CLONAL CROPS. (1 Credit)
The overall goal of the course is to gain fundamental knowledge of breeding methods for clonal crops; these methods are different from those used for seed-propagated crops. Specific examples from a wide array of plant species (tree fruits, berries, tree nuts, potato, sweet potato, cassava, cacao) will be provided to illustrate application of the fundamental knowledge.
Prerequisites: PBG 450 with C or better or PBG 550 with C or better
PBG 552. PLANT BREEDING AND SEED PRODUCTION IN ORGANIC SYSTEMS. (3 Credits)
Genetic improvement and seed propagation of self-pollinated and cross-pollinated crops bred for and used in organic production. The philosophical basis for organic agriculture will be reviewed in the context of what breeding technologies are allowed and why. Important traits for adaptation to organic production will be described. Models for organic plant breeding and examples of such programs are provided.
Prerequisites: PBG 530 with D or better
PBG 556. CROP PLANT DOMESTICATION. (2 Credits)
Learning is based on discussion of the contemporary literature on crop plant origins and domestication. The major agronomic and horticultural crops will be covered. Topics include primary centers of domestication, traits altered by domestication, effect of genetic architecture and local ecology on domestication, and importance of genetic diversity to current plant improvement efforts.
PBG 557. PLANTS AND PATENTS. (2 Credits)
Learn about different methods of intellectual property protection in agriculture with a focus on plant patents, plant variety protection and utility patents. The rights, current issues and restrictions that different types of patents allow will be presented through reading the current literature.
PBG 591. SELECTED TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 598. PLANT CHROMOSOME BIOLOGY. (3 Credits)
Exploration of the relationship between chromosome number, structure, and behavior to gene inheritance, organization, and expression. Discussion of chromosome manipulation strategies for genomics research, genetic analysis, and plant breeding.
Recommended: 6 credits of genetics
PBG 599. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 601. RESEARCH. (1-16 Credits)
Graded P/N.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 603. DISSERTATION. (1-16 Credits)
Graded P/N.
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
PBG 605. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 607. SEMINAR. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 609. PRACTICUM IN TEACHING. (1-3 Credits)
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional material by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures. Graded P/N.
Equivalent to: CROP 609, ENT 609, SOIL 609
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
PBG 620. DNA FINGERPRINTING. (1 Credit)
Principles and methods for producing and analyzing DNA fingerprints. Offered even years. CROSSLISTED as MCB 620.
Recommended: BI 311 or CSS 430 or CSS 530 or PBG 430 or PBG 530 or HORT 430 or HORT 530
PBG 621. GENETIC MAPPING. (1 Credit)
Principles and methods for constructing genetic maps comprised of molecular and other genetic markers. Offered even years. CROSSLISTED as MCB 621.
Recommended: BI 311 or CSS 430 or CSS 530 or PBG 430 or PBG 530 or HORT 430 or HORT 530
PBG 622. MAPPING QUANTITATIVE TRAIT LOCI. (1 Credit)
Principles and methods for mapping genes underlying phenotypically complex traits. Offered even years. CROSSLISTED as MCB 622.
PBG 650. ADVANCED PLANT BREEDING AND QUANTITATIVE GENETICS. (3 Credits)
Pedigree, bulk, single-seed-descent, doubled haploid, backcross, testcross, mass, and half-sib, S~1~, and S~2~ family breeding methods; breeding hybrids and selecting sources of alleles for developing superior hybrids; the nature and consequences of genotype by environment interactions; marker-assisted backcross and inbred line breeding; quantitative trait locus mapping; random linear models; designing and analyzing cultivar, line, and family selection experiments. Offered odd years.
Recommended: (CSS 430 or CSS 530 or PBG 430 or PBG 530 or HORT 430 or HORT 530) and (CSS 450 or CSS 550 or PBG 450 or PBG 550 or HORT 450 or HORT 550) and (ST 411 or ST 511) and (ST 412 or ST 512) and (ST 413 or ST 513)
PBG 691. SELECTED TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
PBG 699. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Soil Science
SOIL 101. INTRODUCTION TO CROP, SOIL, AND INSECT SCIENCE. (1 Credit)
Introduces students with interests in crop, soil, and insect sciences to educational and professional opportunities in these disciplines. Speakers will discuss opportunities in research and academia as well as in the applied professional job market. Open to all students. CROSSLISTED as ENT 101, CROP 101.
SOIL 199. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Equivalent to: SOIL 199H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 199H. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOIL 199
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 205. SOIL SCIENCE. (3 Credits)
Introduction to the chemical, physical and biological nature of soils. Examines how soils function in terms of plant growth, nutrient supply, the global carbon cycle, ecological habitat, and water purification. Community-based learning projects provide hands-on experience with fundamental soil science principles and the impact of human activities on soil quality and sustainability. Lec. (Bacc Core Course if taken with SOIL 206 or FOR 206)
Attributes: CPBL – Core, Pers, BioSci Attached Lec; CPPL – Core, Pers, PhySci Attached Lec
Prerequisites: SOIL 206 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or FOR 206 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better
SOIL 206. *SOIL SCIENCE LABORATORY FOR SOIL 205. (1 Credit)
Students will gain hands-on experience with soil science concepts and applications. Laboratory exercises and field trips will help students develop proficiency in the methods/tools for analyzing soil chemistry, biology, morphology, physical properties, and soil forming factors. Skills will be taught in the context of soils' social, economic, and environmental importance. (Bacc Core Course if taken with SOIL 205)
Attributes: CPBS – Core, Pers, Biological Science; CPPS – Core, Pers, Physical Science
Corequisites: SOIL 205
SOIL 299. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Equivalent to: SOIL 299H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 299H. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOIL 299
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 316. NUTRIENT CYCLING IN AGROECOSYSTEMS. (4 Credits)
Nutrient forms, transformations, and cycling. Diagnosis and correction of nutrient deficiencies, pH and salinity. Impact of nutrient management practices on crop production, soil health, nutrient use efficiency, and environmental quality. Organic and inorganic fertilization. Labs include soil sampling and testing procedures, data collection on soil and plants, computer applications for soil fertility management, and field trips. Lec/lab.
Prerequisites: (CH 121 with D- or better or CH 231 with D- or better) and (SOIL 205 [C] or CSS 205 [C] or CSS 305 [C])
SOIL 360. SOIL MANAGEMENT FOR ORGANIC PRODUCTION. (3 Credits)
This is a skills-based soil management course that is part lecture and part student-centered learning. Significant class time will be devoted to making field-scale management decisions. The course includes individual and group work, presentation, and discussion. The intent is to prepare students for real-world application of soil management decisions in certified organic systems. Using the National Organic Program as a starting point as well as farm system descriptions with extensive long-term data sets, we will interpret soil nutrient analyses, cover cropping systems, and organic amendments, to design soil management plans for two model cropping systems (annual and perennial).
Prerequisites: (SOIL 205 with C or better and (SOIL 206 [C] or FOR 206 [C])) or CSS 205 [C]
Recommended: Introductory soil science course with lab
SOIL 366. ECOSYSTEMS OF WILDLAND SOILS. (3 Credits)
Focuses on soils that occur in relatively undisturbed ecosystems such as forests and rangelands. Topics covered include properties and processes specific to understanding and managing the soil resource in these areas. An overview of US Soil Taxonomy will also be given.
Prerequisites: SOIL 205 with D- or better or CSS 205 with D- or better or CSS 305 with D- or better
Recommended: An understanding and appreciation of environmental chemistry, biology, ecology, and physics
SOIL 388. SOIL SYSTEMS AND PLANT GROWTH. (4 Credits)
Introduces soils as providers of critical resources for plant growth. Explains how soils supply water, air, thermal energy and nutrients to plants. Shows that sustainable management of soil resources requires substantial understanding of their role in the functioning of natural, forest, and agricultural systems. Explains controls on stocks and availabilities of individual soil resources and mechanisms making these resources plant-available.
Prerequisites: ((SOIL 205 with D- or better and (SOIL 206 [D-] or FOR 206 [D-])) or CSS 205 [D-]) and (CH 121 [D-] or CH 231 [D-]) and (BOT 220 [D-] or (BI 204 [D-] or BI 205 [D-] or BI 206 [D-]) or (BI 211 [D-] or BI 212 [D-] or BI 213 [D-]))
SOIL 395. *WORLD SOIL RESOURCES. (3 Credits)
The properties, global distribution, and agricultural productivity of major world soil groups are described. Potentials for human-accelerated soil degradation are introduced for each soil group, and reasons for conflicting assessments of degradation are discussed. Offered via Ecampus only. (Bacc Core Course) (Writing Intensive Course)
Attributes: CSST – Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society; CWIC – Core, Skills, WIC
Prerequisites: CH 121 with D- or better or CH 122 with D- or better or CH 123 with D- or better or CH 201 with D- or better or CH 202 with D- or better or CH 231 with D- or better or CH 231H with D- or better or CH 232 with D- or better or CH 232H with D- or better or CH 233 with D- or better or CH 233H with D- or better
Recommended: One term of chemistry
SOIL 399. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 401. RESEARCH. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 403. THESIS. (1-16 Credits)
Independent, original study and preparation of a senior thesis.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 405. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
Equivalent to: SOIL 405H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 405H. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOIL 405
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 407. SEMINAR. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 408. WORKSHOP. (1-16 Credits)
Evaluation and judging of soils in Oregon and other states; directed studies of soil morphology, soil survey, soil fertility, soil physics, soil chemistry, soil biology, and soil information systems.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 409. PRACTICUM. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 410. INTERNSHIP. (1-6 Credits)
Professional work experience previously approved and supervised by the department, written report required.
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
SOIL 435. ENVIRONMENTAL SOIL PHYSICS. (3 Credits)
Covers principles of soil physical properties and processes as they relate to agricultural, hydrological and environmental problems. Lec/lab. Offered odd years.
Prerequisites: CSS 205 with D- or better or CSS 305 with D- or better or SOIL 205 with D- or better
SOIL 445. ENVIRONMENTAL SOIL CHEMISTRY. (3 Credits)
Structural chemistry of clay minerals and organic matter, cation and anion exchange, and soil solution equilibria of soils. Ion exchange, mineral-solution equilibria, and adsorption reactions of silicate clays, oxides, and organic matter are emphasized. Covers the sorption behavior of environmental contaminants and the weathering reactions that govern the transport of reactive solutes through soils. Lec/rec. Offered odd years.
SOIL 455. BIOLOGY OF SOIL ECOSYSTEMS. (4 Credits)
A detailed study of the organisms that live in the soil and their activities in the soil ecosystems, soil as a habitat for organisms, taxonomy and biology of soil organisms, fundamentals of nutrient cycles, special topics in soil biology, review basis of soil microbial and ecological principles. Lec/rec/lab.
Recommended: (CSS 305 or CSS 205 or SOIL 205). Courses in chemistry, physics, and microbiology
SOIL 466. SOIL MORPHOLOGY AND CLASSIFICATION. (4 Credits)
Observation and description of soil properties in the field; writing soil profile descriptions; evaluating criteria that define features used to classify soils; using soil classification keys. Lec/lab.
Prerequisites: SOIL 205 with D- or better or CSS 205 with D- or better or CSS 305 with D- or better
SOIL 468. SOIL LANDSCAPE ANALYSIS. (4 Credits)
Principles of soil geomorphology, soil stratigraphy, and surficial processes as applied to understanding the soil system and landscape scales. Emphasis on field observations of soils, geomorphic surfaces, and environment. Field project entails design of soil survey map units, field mapping and GIS cartographic techniques. Lec/lab. Offered even years.
Prerequisites: SOIL 466 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or CSS 466 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better
SOIL 475. SOIL RESOURCE POTENTIALS. (4 Credits)
Course builds on knowledge from introductory pedology, soil chemistry, soil physics and soil biology to practice the evaluation of nutrient availability and soil moisture storage in the rooting space. Results from the application of pedotransfer functions to observations at the pit wall are translated into quantitative, numerical expressions of soil resource potentials. Lec/lab.
Prerequisites: SOIL 435 with D- or better and SOIL 455 [D-] and SOIL 466 [D-]
SOIL 499. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Equivalent to: SOIL 499H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 499H. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOIL 499
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 501. RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 503. THESIS/DISSERTATION. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
SOIL 505. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 506. PROJECTS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 507. SEMINAR. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 508. WORKSHOP. (1-16 Credits)
Evaluation and judging of soils in Oregon and other states; directed studies of soil morphology, soil survey, soil fertility, soil physics, soil chemistry, soil biology, and soil information systems.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 509. PRACTICUM IN TEACHING. (1-3 Credits)
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional material by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures. CROSSLISTED as ENT 509, CROP 509, PBG 509.
Equivalent to: CROP 509, ENT 509, PBG 509
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
SOIL 510. INTERNSHIP. (1-6 Credits)
Professional work experience previously approved and supervised by the department, written report required.
This course is repeatable for 6 credits.
SOIL 511. SOIL: A NATURAL AND SOCIETAL RESOURCE. (3 Credits)
Serves degree- and non-degree-seeking graduate learners wanting soil science knowledge but having minimal science background. Understanding soil physical, chemical, and biological properties promotes informed soil management while supporting individual to global societal values. Established curriculum facilitates graduate degrees or certificates, continuing education, professional certification, and self-improvement goals. A highly interactive social media framework supports weekly student-student and instructor-student learning interactions.
SOIL 512. METHODS OF SOIL ANALYSIS - FIELD. (1 Credit)
Recognition and quantitative description of soil properties in agroecosystems. Assessments of soil environments used for crop production in Oregon. Demonstration and practice of volumetric and bulk soil sampling techniques as well as the application of pedotransfer functions. Each participant will be responsible for analyzing at least one soil sample in the chemical level. Five-day duration with four overnight stays at campgrounds. Participants will use their own or borrowed camping equipment.
Recommended: SOIL 205 with a minimum grade of C
SOIL 513. PROPERTIES, PROCESSES, AND FUNCTIONS OF SOILS. (4 Credits)
Physical, chemical, biological, and landscape properties; processes of fluid retention and movement, weathering and cation exchange, decomposition and C-N dynamics, erosion and sedimentation; functions of hydrologic regulation, nutrient cycling, environmental protection, ecological habitat.
Equivalent to: CSS 513
SOIL 514. METHODS OF SOIL ANALYSIS - LABORATORY. (2 Credits)
Provide the theoretical background, as well as practical experience needed to plan, select, execute, and interpret soil chemical and physical analyses such as those typically used for nutrient management recommendations. Individual and group activities involve classroom presentations, as well as hands-on work in a teaching laboratory. Samples processed are those collected in SOIL 512, Methods of Soil Analysis - Field. Duration is five full work days.
Prerequisites: SOIL 512 (may be taken concurrently) with C or better
Recommended: SOIL 205 and successful completion of EH&S Laboratory
SOIL 515. SOIL FERTILITY MANAGEMENT. (3 Credits)
Management of plant nutrients in agronomic systems; diagnosis of nutrient availability and prediction of crop response to fertilizers; interactions between nutrient response and chemical, physical and biological properties of soils.
Recommended: CSS 315 and courses in statistics, chemistry and plant physiology.
SOIL 523. PRINCIPLES OF STABLE ISOTOPES. (3 Credits)
An introduction to the theory and use of stable isotopes. Applications of stable isotopes to soil science, plant physiology, hydrology, and ecosystem studies. Offered even years.
SOIL 525. MINERAL-ORGANIC MATTER INTERACTIONS. (3 Credits)
Studies the fundamental properties of the mineral-organic interface and the mechanisms of interaction between mineral and organic soil properties.
SOIL 530. ORGANIC SOIL AND CROP MANAGEMENT. (3 Credits)
Overview of organic soil and crop management, organic soil system management, soil microbiology under organic systems, cropping systems, organic cereal production systems, organic forage production system, organic horticultural systems management, organic field and horticulture cropping systems; recent research and case studies. CROSSLISTED AS CROP 530.
Equivalent to: CROP 530
Recommended: (SOIL 525, CROP 200 and SOIL 205 or introductory biology) and completion or concurrent enrollment in AGRI 520
SOIL 535. SOIL PHYSICS. (3 Credits)
Theoretical elements of soil physical properties and processes related to agricultural, hydrological and environmental problems. Offered fall term in even years.
Recommended: CSS 305, CSS 205, SOIL 205, MTH 241, CH 123, PH 201
SOIL 536. VADOSE ZONE HYDROLOGY LABORATORY. (1 Credit)
Experimental elements of soil physical properties and processes allowing practical experience in the measurement and analysis of soil physical processes related to agricultural, hydrological and environmental problems. Weekly laboratory. Offered even years.
SOIL 545. ENVIRONMENTAL SOIL CHEMISTRY. (3 Credits)
Structural chemistry of clay minerals and organic matter, cation and anion exchange, and soil solution equilibria of soils. Ion exchange, mineral-solution equilibria, and adsorption reactions of silicate clays, oxides, and organic matter are emphasized. Covers the sorption behavior of environmental contaminants and the weathering reactions that govern the transport of reactive solutes through soils. Lec/rec. Offered odd years.
SOIL 547. NUTRIENT CYCLING. (3 Credits)
Reviews and discusses ecosystem-level biogeochemical concepts for terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems, primarily by reading and discussing classic and current literature to determine the state-of-knowledge and uncertainties associated with it. Topics include root nutrient uptake mechanisms, soil chemical and biochemical transformations in different soil and ecosystems, measuring soil solution and watershed fluxes, soil organic matter formation and structure, the meaning of sustainability, the concept of N saturation in terrestrial ecosystems, and the use of natural abundance and tracer isotopes in ecosystem biogeochemistry. While forest biogeochemical processes will be emphasized, desert, aquatic, wetland, and prairie ecosystems will also be explored. CROSSLISTED as BOT 547.
Recommended: College-level chemistry and biology and one class in ecology (eg. BI 370) and/or soils (eg. SOIL 205)
SOIL 555. BIOLOGY OF SOIL ECOSYSTEMS. (4 Credits)
A detailed study of the organisms that live in the soil and their activities in the soil ecosystems, soil as a habitat for organisms, taxonomy and biology of soil organisms, fundamentals of nutrient cycles, special topics in soil biology, review basis of soil microbial and ecological principles. Lec/rec/lab.
Recommended: CSS 305 or CSS 205 or SOIL 205. Courses in chemistry, physics, and microbiology
SOIL 566. SOIL MORPHOLOGY AND CLASSIFICATION. (4 Credits)
Observation and description of soil properties in the field; writing soil profile descriptions; evaluating criteria that define features used to classify soils; using soil classification keys. Lec/lab.
SOIL 568. SOIL LANDSCAPE ANALYSIS. (4 Credits)
Principles of soil geomorphology, soil stratigraphy, and surficial processes as applied to understanding the soil system at landscape scales. Emphasis on field observations of soils, geomorphic surfaces, and environment. Field project entails design of soil survey map units, field mapping and GIS cartographic techniques. Lec/lab. Offered odd years.
Prerequisites: CSS 566 (may be taken concurrently) with C or better or SOIL 566 (may be taken concurrently) with C or better
SOIL 591. SELECTED TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
Course content and title will change with each offering.
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 599. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 601. RESEARCH. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 603. THESIS/DISSERTATION. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
SOIL 605. READING AND CONFERENCE. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 606. PROJECTS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 607. SEMINAR. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 608. WORKSHOP. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 609. PRACTICUM IN TEACHING. (1-3 Credits)
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional material by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures. Graded P/N.
Equivalent to: CROP 609, ENT 609, PBG 609
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
SOIL 635. ADVANCED SOIL PHYSICS. (3 Credits)
Explores theoretical development of a key topic in soil physics. Topics may include evaporation from porous media, multiphase fluid movement, soil deformation, and soil salinization, with respect to either historical development, present day understanding or future needs of the field. Course structure incorporates lectures and discussion requiring intensive student participation. Offered odd years.
Prerequisites: CSS 535 with C or better or SOIL 535 with C or better
Recommended: A working knowledge of soil physics and a passing grade in a graduate-level soil physics course
SOIL 645. SOIL MICROBIAL ECOLOGY. (3 Credits)
An advanced treatment of current topics in soil microbiology, with an emphasis on the ecology of soil microorganisms. Topics include the size, composition, diversity, and activity of soil microbial communities, linkage of microbial community structure to ecosystem functions, and applications of molecular biology to soil microbiology. Offered even years.
SOIL 684. GLOBAL BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES. (4 Credits)
An in-depth treatment of global biogeochemical cycles, focusing on cycles of carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. CROSSLISTED as GEO 684.
Equivalent to: GEO 684
Recommended: One year of college-level physics and chemistry, including introductory biology. One year of graduate coursework in soil, earth, ocean, atmospheric or forest science
SOIL 691. SELECTED TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 699. SPECIAL TOPICS. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Sustainability
SUS 102. *INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND SUSTAINABILITY. (4 Credits)
An introduction to the science behind critical environmental issues and the biological basis of creating and maintaining sustainable ecosystems. Focus on such questions as: how do we decide what to believe about environmental issues? How do we quantify, restore, and value biodiversity? What is valid science in the global warming debate? Lec/lab. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPBS – Core, Pers, Biological Science
SUS 103. *INTRODUCTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE. (4 Credits)
An introduction to the principles of climate change science with an emphasis on the empirical evidence for climate change. Students will learn critical thinking skills to assess such questions as: How do we determine the processes controlling global warming? How do we predict trends in climate change? How do we calculate and understand uncertainty in these predictions? What is valid science in the global warming debate? Lec/lab. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CPPS – Core, Pers, Physical Science
SUS 304. *SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT. (4 Credits)
Explores theories and application of sustainability assessment techniques and analysis methods. Practical application of globally recognized assessment protocol, including checklists, footprinting, life-cycle analysis and the indicators used to conduct these analyses. Emphasis on ecological and social indicators, although economic indicators are explored. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CSST – Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society
SUS 325. ^AG AND ENVIRONMENTAL PREDICAMENTS: A CASE STUDY APPROACH. (3 Credits)
Analyze controversial agricultural and environmental issues, synthesize information from diverse sources, and apply scientific knowledge to recommend specific courses of action to solve real world problems. Develop oral and written communication skills through individual and group work. (Writing Intensive Course)
Attributes: CWIC – Core, Skills, WIC
SUS 350. *SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES. (4 Credits)
Introduction to the concept of sustainable communities from a multidisciplinary perspective. Instructors from a broad array of disciplines and professions. Development of holistic thinking skills and innovative solutions to complex problems. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CSGI – Core, Synth, Global Issues
SUS 401. RESEARCH. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SUS 410. INTERNSHIP. (1-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SUS 420. SOCIAL DIMENSIONS OF SUSTAINABILITY. (3 Credits)
Focuses on the social aspects of sustainability, including how the environment, the economy, social life interact to create the world we live in. Explores how social institutions (school, government, business, family) contribute to sustainability and promote or discourage social and environmental justice at local and global scales. Also offered at OSU-Cascades and via Ecampus.
SUS 499. SPECIAL TOPICS. (3 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 15 credits.
SUS 512. TOPICS IN THE SCIENCE OF SUSTAINABILITY. (4 Credits)
Provides a graduate-level introduction to key concepts and issues in environmental science and sustainability, targeted at business-oriented graduate and post-bacc students who do not have a science background. The course is a core requirement of the Sustainable Business certificate program offered jointly by the College of Business (COB) and the College of Agricultural Sciences' (CAS) Sustainability Double-Degree (SDD) Program.
SUS 514. SUSTAINABILITY PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT. (4 Credits)
Sustainability is fundamentally about balancing social, economic and ecological systems. This course examines a range of different methodologies for measuring and evaluating performance towards established sustainability criteria and indicators. Students will critically evaluate tools for making sustainable decisions and understand the limitations of individual assessment approaches in different contexts. Specific assessment techniques to be explored include ecological footprinting, sustainable community indicators, greenhouse gas emissions inventories, sustainability checklists, environmental management systems (ISO standards), life-cycle analysis, and business sustainability reporting. Students will leave the course with the fundamental skills required to complete sustainability assessments via globally relevant approaches.
SUS 599. SPECIAL TOPICS. (0-16 Credits)
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.