The Master of Science in Soil Science (Agriculture) is a postgraduate degree program that covers soil as a natural resource on earth. This program discusses many scientific issues related to the soil such as its formation, classification, mapping and characteristics. Soil Science involves the understanding of physical, chemical and biological characteristics of soil to enhance crops production, land utilization for productive purposes, and provision of environmental services. The program provides students with knowledge of ways to maintain the health of the soil and its fertility, the interactions between soil and plants, and the basics of assessing the effect of soil management on the environment.

This course is designed in parallel with the theoretical and the applicative aspects and it includes laboratory and field activities, research projects in soil and environmental sciences at an advanced level. Learners are exposed to techniques of soil testing, nutrient application and practices in the proper utilization and enhancement of soil foundation.

Students in M.Sc. in Soil Science (Agriculture) focus on:

• Soil Physics and Chemistry
• Soil Biology and Ecology
• Soil Formation, Classification and Surveys
• Soil and Water Conservation
• Environmental Soil Science
• Health and Quality of Soil
• Hydrology and Water Control
• Precision Soil Mapping
• Soil Microbial Ecology
• Organic Soil Management
• Soils: Degradation and Management
• Soil Testing and Analysis
• Soil-Water Interactions

There may be advanced courses such as Soil Biochemistry, Remote Sensing on Soil Management, and Management of Soil Fertilization, which help students to refine their interest field in soil science.

Job profiles and salaries

Below are some job profiles with average salaries for soil science graduates:

• Soil Scientist  

 Job Profile: Analyzes soil properties, advises on fertility improvement, erosion control, and sustainable land management to maximize agricultural productivity.  

 Average Salary: ₹5-₹10 lakhs per annum  

• Environmental Consultant  

Job Profile: Works on soil and environmental impact assessments, advising on land use and soil conservation methods.  

Average Salary: ₹6-₹12 lakhs per annum  

• Soil Conservationist  

Job Profile: Develops practices to prevent soil erosion, manage water runoff, and promote sustainable land use.  

Average Salary: ₹5-₹10 lakhs per annum  

• Research Scientist  

Job Profile: Conducts research on soil properties, fertility management, and environmental impact to advance sustainable agricultural practices.  

 Average Salary: ₹7-₹13 lakhs per annum  

• Agricultural Extension Specialist  

Job Profile: Agricultural Extension Specialist is responsible for Educating farmers on sustainable soil practices, soil health improvement, and effective nutrient management.  

Average Salary: ₹5-₹10 lakhs per annum  

• Land Use Specialist 

Job Profile: It Provides expertise on land management, soil classification, and environmental conservation.  

Average Salary: ₹6-₹12 lakhs per annum  

• Fertilizer Specialist

Job Profile: The role of Fertilizer Specialist is to give advice on the correct use of fertilizers based on soil needs, improving crop yield and ensuring environmental sustainability.  

 Average Salary: ₹5-₹10 lakhs per annum  

• Soil Laboratory Technician  

Job Profile: It is responsible for conducting soil tests, analyzes samples for nutrient content, and prepares reports on soil health.  

 Average Salary: ₹4-₹8 lakhs per annum  

• Hydrologist  

Job Profile: The role of Hydrologist is to Studies soil-water interactions and works on managing water resources and quality in agricultural contexts.  

Average Salary: ₹6-₹13 lakhs per annum  

After M.Sc. in Soil Science (Agriculture):

1. Specialized Courses in Soil Science and Related Fields

• Soil Microbiology
• Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition
• Environmental Soil Chemistry
• Remote Sensing and GIS for Soil Management
• Land Resource Management
• Soil Conservation and Land Use Planning
• Soil Ecology and Pollution Management
• Climate-Smart Soil Management

2. Certification Courses

• Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS)
• Soil Health Management Certification
• Environmental Soil Science Certification
• Precision Soil Management Certification

3. Ph.D. in Soil Science
4. M.Phil in Soil Science

Top Hiring Companies

• Monsanto
• Syngenta
• DuPont Pioneer
• Dow Agro Sciences
• BASF
• Cargill
• Mahyco Seeds
• Kaveri Seeds
• Namdhari Seeds
• Seed Works International
• Coromandel International
• Zuari Agro Chemicals
• Tata Chemicals
• Indian Agricultural Research Institute
• National Agricultural Research Centre
• World Wildlife Fund
• The Nature Conservancy
• John Deere
• AGCO Corporation
• PI Industries
• Bunge
• CHS Inc.
• Environmental Resources Management
• Tetra Tech
• Soil Science Societies
• Food and Agriculture Organization
• CNH Industrial
• AECOM

FAQs

Q: What job profiles are available after a Master of Science in Soil Science (Agriculture)?  

• Soil Scientist  
• Environmental Consultant  
• Soil Conservationist  
• Research Scientist  
• Agricultural Extension Specialist  
• Land Use Specialist  
• Fertilizer Specialist  
• Soil Laboratory Technician  
• Hydrologist  

Q: Are there higher study opportunities after completing a M.Sc. in Soil Science (Agriculture)?  

A: Yes, graduates can pursue a Ph.D., M.Phil, or specialized courses in soil science. Certification programs in soil health management, environmental soil science, and precision soil management are also available.