Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Sciences

Plant Pathology Option
Many research projects are problem oriented and pertain to major plant pathological problems in the state. Currently active research projects involve soil-borne diseases of cereals, genetic basis for disease resistance in field crops, cereal leaf spots, virus diseases of cereals and potatoes, bacterial diseases and the biochemistry and molecular genetics of plant disease. Additional current research projects pertain to the biocontrol of plant diseases and the biocontrol of weeds using plant pathogens and/or their toxins.

Department research projects employ modern molecular biological and biotechnological techniques as well as traditional plant pathological techniques.

Plant Genetics Option
The Department offers advanced study leading to a Ph.D. degree in Plant Genetics with supporting minors. Thesis research problems are related to the diverse research projects of the faculty.

The Department conducts research programs in: cereal quality, cropping systems/specialty crops, molecular and conventional approaches to plant improvement. Faculty have expertise in molecular genetics, plant breeding and genetics, cereal quality, cytogenetics, biochemistry, plant physiology and agronomy.

Students seeking admission to graduate status must hold a BS degree and have a record of high scholarship in areas closely related to the plant sciences. Academic record is one indicator of such potential. A traditional standard is a B (3.00 on 4.00 scale) average or better for the last two years of undergraduate or graduate work.

English Proficiency for Graduate Applicants:

Internet-based TOEFL Test (iBT): 80

Paper-based TOEFL Test (PBT): 550

IELTS: 6.5

PTE Academic: 54

International Degree and Non-degree-seeking Application Deadlines:

Fall Semesters- May 15th
Spring Semesters- October 1st
Summer Semesters- February 1st