School of Plant and Environmental Sciences

Our Mission

In the School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, we train the next generation of professionals in the fields of plant breeding and genetics, agronomic and horticultural crop production, plant protection, soil and water systems management, agricultural technologies, environmental restoration, and agro-environmental stewardship. We conduct research to improve agricultural productivity, reduce negative impacts on the environment, and improve soil and water health. Through our Extension programs, we provide science-based information to our stakeholders to help them feed the world while protecting the environment.

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According to the USDA, between 2020 and 2025, an average of 36,100 new U.S. graduates with expertise in food, agriculture, renewable natural resources, or the environment are expected to fill 61% of the expected 59,400 average annual openings.

Learning

What you will learn

The School of Plant and Environmental Sciences strives to create a positive and creative learning environment for our students. We have dedicated faculty and staff who provide individual advising and instruction to equip our students for regional and global professions. You can count on world-class academic programs, relevant for today and tomorrow, opportunities for involvement and experience, and personal attention in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

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Research

Discover new solutions

Researchers in the School of Plant and Environmental Sciences integrate computation, biology, and technology to solve complex problems affecting crop production and environmental quality. Faculty and students breed new crops with greater nutritional value, develop models for early warning of crop disease outbreaks, discover genes that increase crop resilience, productivity and disease resistance, and restore tropical and temperate ecosystems.

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Extension

Enhancing yields, improving quality and helping Virginians.

Our Extension and outreach programs are designed to deliver pragmatic, science-based information regarding sustainable crop production and responsible land and water use management.

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