PhD in Soil Science (Doctor of Philosophy in Soil Science)
PhD in Soil Science About
PhD in Soil Science and is a Doctoral Degree that focuses on agricultural sciences, with a specialisation in Soil Science and applications of chemistry concepts in the agricultural setting. To be an eligible candidate for admissions to PhD Soil Science the aspiring candidates must have attained at least 50% at M.Phil in the same field or any other equivalent degree from a recognised institute. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Soil Science is a research-oriented program that focuses on the study of soil properties, processes, and their interactions with the environment. The program is designed to train students to become experts in soil science research, education, and management.
PhD in Soil Science Course Highlights
| Course type | Doctoral Degree |
| Course Duration | 3-5 years |
| Course Examination Type | Semester Based |
| Course Eligibility | 50% at M.Phil in the same field or any other equivalent degree |
| Course Admission process | Entrance Based |
| Top Recruiters | Agriculture Universities, Plant Taxonomy, Animal Husbandry and much more of the same kind. |
| Job Position | Horticulturist Consultant, Soil Scientist, Florist, Plant Breeder and much more. |
PhD in Soil Science Entrance Exam
The admission process for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Soil Science program varies among universities. Some universities require applicants to take a standardized graduate entrance exam, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE).
| Entrance Exam |
| CSIR UGC NET |
| UGC NET |
| ICAR AICE JRF/SRF |
| IIT JAM |
| VITMEE |
| NIPER PhD Entrance Exam |
PhD in Soil Science Eligibility Criteria
| PhD in Soil Science requires candidates to have completed an M.Phil Degree in the same field or a relevant field with at least 55% marks at the qualifying examination. |
| The degree obtained must be from a recognised college or institute. |
| The aspiring candidate must not have any previous backlogs at their previous education level. |
| Aside from the above-mentioned criteria, other universities may have their own concerns that students must address in order to be qualified candidates for the course. |
PhD in Soil Science Duration
The duration of a PhD in Soil Science program typically ranges from 4-6 years, depending on the student's research progress and other factors. During this time, students will take advanced courses, conduct original research, and write and defend a dissertation.
PhD in Soil Science Selection Criteria
The selection criteria for a PhD in Soil Science program may vary among universities. Typically, universities consider the applicant's academic performance, research experience, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and other qualifications. In addition, universities may consider the availability of a faculty advisor with similar research interests.
PhD in Soil Science How to Apply
- To apply for a PhD in Soil Science program, applicants typically need to submit an online application form along with transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and other required documents.
- Some universities may also require an application fee.
- Applicants should visit the university's website or contact the admissions office for more information on the application process.
PhD in Soil Science Application Process
| Candidates must pass the ICAR Entrance Test or any other CET administered by a recognised institution in order to be admitted to the programme. |
| A minimum of 55 per cent in the qualifying test of M.Phil is required by most Indian universities giving admission to the programme, and most of them accept GATE results as well. |
| As per the latest admission standards, students have judged 70 per cent on GATE scores and 30 per cent on their merit. |
PhD in Soil Science Fee Structure
The application fee for a PhD in Soil Science program varies among universities. The fee may range from Updated Soon, depending on the university.
PhD in Soil Science Syllabus
| Physics of Soil |
| Mineralogy, survey and soil classification |
| Principles of research in soil science |
| Viva-voce |
| Field research/training |
| Soil erosion, management, and conservation |
| Soil Biochemistry |
| Environment and Soil pollution |
| Presentation and Report |
| Thesis report and Seminar |
Job Scope After Completed for PhD in Soil Science
| Job Profile | Job Description |
| Soil Scientist | A soil scientist's duties include soil data collection, consultation, research, evaluation, interpretation, planning, and inspection. This occupation requires a wide range of tasks and responsibilities, as well as offering recommendations concerning a wide range of resources. |
| Florist | A florist is a person who is interested in the decorative use of plants as well as playing an important role in the flower growth and development cycle. |
| Agriculture Consultant | Agricultural Consultants are responsible for providing farmers, farm managers, and agro-processing enterprises with the best possible advice on crop sowing and management. |
| Researcher | As part of the R&D process, it is an analysis and practice-based employment that requires one to complete academic projects as well as practical outings. |
PhD in Soil Science Career Opportunities
PhD graduates in Soil Science can work in various fields, including agriculture, environmental science, natural resource management, or consulting. Some possible career opportunities include:
- Soil Scientist
- Research Scientist
- Professor
- Environmental Consultant
- Soil Conservationist
- Natural Resource Manager
PhD in Soil Science Top Colleges
Some of the top universities offering a PhD in Soil Science program include:
- University of California, Davis
- University of Florida
- North Carolina State University
- Iowa State University
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Purdue University
- Michigan State University
- The Ohio State University
- Cornell University.
PhD in Soil Science Admission Procedure
- Application for the entrance exam
- Result declaration
- Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
- Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
- Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
- Course work examination
- Result declaration of coursework
- Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
- Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
- A registration letter shall be issued
- Research work started by scholar
- 6 progress reports shall be submitted
- Soft copy thesis submit
- plagiarism report check by the university
- Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
- After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
- After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be submitted
- Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.
PhD in Soil Science Documents Checklist
- Documents (10th onwards)
- Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
- Migration Certificate (Original)
- NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
- Affidavit (undertaking)
- Guide Willing
- Assignments
- Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
- Library No Dues
- Lab Letter
- Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
- No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
- Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
- C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
- Conference Certificate - 2
- Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
- summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies
- Plagiarism Report Below 10%
FAQs About PhD in Soil Science
Q.1 - What is the procedure for PhD Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOIL SCIENCE (PHD IN SOIL SCIENCE)
Doctor of Philosophy in Soil Science (PhD in Soil Science) is a 3 Years Doctorate Degree Courses program that focuses on Doctor of Philosophy. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare students for a career in Doctor of Philosophy.
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