Distance Learning Programs in Soils Science at NC State.

The Soil Science Dep. at NC State University has taught distance education classes for over 10 years.  We currently offer 10 classes online for undergraduates, graduate students, and those enrolled in a 2-year associates degree.  Current course offerings include: introduction to soils, soil fertility, soil microbiology, pedology, wetland soils, and environmental applications.  A Master of Soil Science degree has been offered for 5 years.  A Certificate in Soil Science became available last year.  This was developed to allow professionals to earn 15 credits of soil science classes for licensing or job advancement.  The University distributes funds to the department if its distance education courses are part of a graduate or undergraduate degree or certificate program.  Through this arrangement our department received $150,000 in funds this fiscal year.  The funds were used to pay for faculty stipends for distance teaching, computer support personnel, new computers for all faculty in the department, supplies, and new office furniture for graduate students.  The distance education program has reached the point where it has become an essential part of the department.