The master of science in plant and soil sciences degree is offered to students who
wish to study entomology, environmental microbiology, environmental, soil and water sciences, horticulture, plant pathology,
or soil science. Thesis or non-thesis options are available. It provides
students the opportunity to take courses and conduct original, master’s-level research
in their areas of specialization. The educational experience obtained through courses
and research is expected to provide students with the background and expertise
to enter doctoral programs or professional careers as agronomists, entomologists,
microbiologists, horticulturists, and plant pathologists or soil scientists. These
disciplines are critical to maintaining agriculture and forest productivity, solving
environmental problems, and promoting economic development in the state.
Admissions Requirements
In order for a student to be admitted to the program, the following admission criteria will be considered. The applicant normally must:
University and College Level
- A regular graduate student is a degree-seeking student who meets all of the criteria for regular admissio n to a program of his/her choice.
- The student must possess a baccalaureate degree from a college or uni versity, have at least a grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (or an average of 3.0 or higher for the last 60 credit hours),
- The student must have an ad equate academic aptitude at the graduate level as measured by the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
- The student must provide three letters of reference from persons acquainted with the applicant’s professional work, experience, or academic background.
- The student must submit a written sta tement of 500 words or more indicating the applicant’s goals and objectives relative to receiving a graduate degree.
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International students have the additional requirement to submit a minimum
score of 550 on the paper TOEFL examination or 213 on the electronic TOEFL examination
if their native language is not English.
Program Level
- The student must provide three letters of reference, at least two of which are required from persons familiar with the applicant’s academic performance.
- The student must provide a one to two-page letter of intent describing research and professional aspirations.
- The student must have completed the following courses at the undergraduate level: o
Entomological or Biological Sciences – 12 hourso Chemistry – 12 hourso College
Algebra – 3 hours