Advancing knowledge in plant and soil systems

The Master of Science (MS) in Integrated Plant and Soil Sciences (IPSS) prepares students to advance sustainable solutions in agriculture, environmental science, plant breeding, and biotechnology through research, innovation, and outreach.

Plant and Soil Science Professor David McNear collected soil samples for students in the AES 320 class at North Farm.

In the MS in IPSS degree program, you’ll address pressing global challenges in agriculture, food security, and environmental sustainability through advanced coursework, hands-on learning, and interdisciplinary research. By integrating across multiple fields in plant and soil sciences, you’ll develop innovative solutions that support resilient agricultural systems.

Choose a path that fits your goals: a research-oriented thesis option (Plan A) or a coursework-based non-thesis option (Plan B). Both options require 30 credit hours, with Plan A students eligible to count six credit hours of research residency towards that total. You can concentrate in crop science, plant biology, horticulture, environmental and ecosystem science, plant pathology, or soil science. Applicants from diverse scientific backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

As an MS student, you’ll collaborate across disciplines to engage in impactful research and connect with academic, industry, and community partners. You’ll be prepared to lead in careers spanning research, education, plant production systems, environmental policy, and public service, or to continue your academic journey towards a PhD or other advanced degrees.

Careers

The Master of Science in Integrated Plant and Soil Sciences degree will prepare you for dynamic careers in the private, public, and non-profit sectors as well as professional programs.

  • Agronomist
  • Crop consultant
  • Environmental scientist
  • Extension agent
  • Greenhouse manager
  • Plant breeder
  • Plant physiologist
  • Precision agriculture specialist
  • Soil scientist
  • Research scientist

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Ready to apply? Start by contacting the Director of Graduate Studies for the program of interest to learn about specific requirements. To be eligible, you must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a fully accredited U.S. institution or recognized foreign institution, have a bachelor’s GPA of at least 2.75 on 4.0 scale, a 3.0 on all graduate work, and proof of English language proficiency.

THE IPSS COMMUNITY

Graduate students in the MS in IPSS program are part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary community where innovation and impact go hand in hand. Surrounded by faculty from multiple departments who are passionate about mentoring and discovery, students are encouraged to explore complex challenges across our integrated disciplines. Whether conducting research in sustainable plant production systems, fundamental plant biology, soil resources, or ecosystem ecology, students are empowered to turn scientific inquiry into action and their passions into purpose.

Hemp, Industrial Hemp Research, North Farm, Production Agriculture, Spindletop Farm, agriculture products, farm production, farm products Hannah Kegley of the UK Industrial Hemp Research team processed dryed hemp into usable fiber on North Farm.
Ag Biotechnology, Agricultural Biotechnology Associate Professor Tomokazu Kawashima conducted Arabidopsis Sperm Cell research in his lab in the Plant Science Building.

RESEARCH FACILITIES

As an MS student, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art research facilities with specialized laboratories for plant biology, soil chemistry, crop physiology, and much more. You’ll have opportunities to gain hands-on field research experience at university farms and forest, allowing you to apply advanced techniques in real-world settings while collaborating with faculty on impactful, interdisciplinary research.

GRADUATE SUPPORT AND OPPORTUNITIES

Graduate students benefit from a vibrant academic environment designed to support their success and fuel their ambitions. Our program provides students with the resources and encouragement to pursue bold ideas, shape their futures, and make a meaningful impact.

Funding Options

Explore opportunities to fund your graduate education through assistantships (research, teaching, or graduate) and fellowships.

Graduate Certificates

Discover a great way to enhance your graduate degree program by adding specialized, career-focused expertise.

Student Organizations

Enrich your graduate experience both academically and socially by joining one of the university’s many graduate student organizations.

Professional Enhancement

Foster your personal and professional growth in career preparedness, research, teaching, and wellness through supportive and collaborative programming and networking.

Ready to turn your passion into a career?

Explore endless opportunities at the University of Kentucky and take the first step toward your future.

Director of Graduate Studies
Arthur Hunt, PhD