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Crop Science…your opportunity to change the world Crop Science is the application of biological, chemical and physical principles to crops and cropping systems to increase their efficiency in converting light and supplemental resources into food, feed, fiber, or ornamental commodities such as floral crops. Crop Scientists are employed within the private sector by agrichemical, seed, grain, greenhouse, nursery, and food processing companies. Crop Scientists may also become independent crop producers or professional agricultural consultants. Within the public sector, they are eligible for various jobs with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA,) local and regional planning agencies, and the Cooperative Extension Service. Crop Science majors at OSU concentrate in particular on the interrelationships among the physical and biological factors that regulate crop plant productivity. With knowledge of and experience in working with these interrelationships in hand, graduates are prepared to creatively solve the changing problems in modern crop production and management. The application of biotechnology in Crop Science – an emerging area worth considering for study – is playing an increasingly important role in the world of crop production. Crop Science majors may choose to specialize in one of three areas: agronomy, vegetable and fruit or greenhouse/nursery production. At least one internship is required for graduation. Salary Trends The average annual salary for entry-level positions in Crop Science, Landscape Horticulture and Turfgrass Science is $34,000. Salaries will vary depending on location, the candidates skill, and previous job-related experience. High School Preparation Students interested in these majors should develop a high-school program emphasizing the sciences. Advanced placement courses in math and science are highly recommended. All freshman applicants are considered within a competitive admission process. The primary criteria for admission are the completion of the applicants high school college preparation program, performance in that program as indicated by class rank and/or grade-point average, and performance on either the ACT or SAT. Students with good academic backgrounds may receive credit for some courses by examination after enrolling at Ohio State. General Education Curriculum Requirements During the first year at Ohio State, students begin taking courses to satisfy the General Education Curriculum (GEC) requirements. The GEC assures that each student becomes acquainted with the basic areas of academic study. To satisfy the GEC requirements, credit hours must be completed from the following eight areas:
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