MScAgric (Soil Science)
The Master of Science in Agriculture in Soil Science entails independent research conducted under a supervisor. A research topic can be selected from one of the following themes specialisation fields:
• Soil genesis and classification;
• Weathering and clay mineral synthesis;
• Plant nutrition and fertilisation;
•Irrigation and soil-plant-water management including salinity control and management;
• Resource (soil, land and water) evaluation and management systems such as, amongst others, erosion control; or
• Rhizosphere and pedosphere organisms and interactions.
The project may consist of either soil science only or soil science integrated with a crop (plant), climate and/or terrain study. You will be guided towards project planning for problem solving by research within
general guidelines and an overall picture of sustainable resource use through environmentally friendly, economical soil, water and plant management. You must be able to show that you have the ability to deal analytically and systematically with problems relating to the soil, plant, water and atmosphere continuum, and to identify possible solutions and formulate guidelines for the environmentally friendly management of natural resources.
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Programme overview
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When applying
Please note that selection for postgraduate programmes is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Research Master’s and PhD applicants are strongly advised to consult the relevant department before applying to discuss their proposed research topic and confirm the availability of a suitable supervisor.
Minimum admission requirements
An applicable BScAgric degree.
An average final mark of 60% for the major subject.
Programme structure
Compulsory Module
14176: Soil Science
818(180): Master’s thesis
Assessment and Examination
After completion of the research you must submit a thesis to the satisfaction of the examiners and present a seminar. You will be expected to defend your thesis during this seminar.