Degree Programs

The Plant Pathology Department collaborates in the Plant Protection undergraduate program. This interdisciplinary program with the departments of Plant Sciences and Entomology provides students a broad based experience in both the production of crops and management of pests. Students from this multi-disciplinary program may find employment in industry or private business, or they may continue their education with graduate studies.

Completion of a Master of Science degree is dependent on the completion of 30 semester hours in Plant Pathology or approved courses from related departments. Not less than 10 credits must reflect research in the desired area. No minor area of study is required with an MS degree, but a minor may be elected.

Completion of a Doctor of Philosophy degree is dependent on the completion of 30 semester hours beyond the MS degree or 90 credits total. Courses may include Plant Pathology or approved courses from related departments. Not less than 10 credits must reflect research in the desired area. A minor area of study is required with a PhD degree. Options are available in plant science, agronomy, plant breeding, microbiology, entomology and others.

The graduate students in the department have formed a Graduate Student Association to improve the interaction and sharing of cultures represented among the students. Students typically come from many different backgrounds, regions in the United States, or foreign countries. Currently, we have students from five countries and four states. The GSA offers an outlet for the students to share ideas and enjoy the company of each other in a noncompetitive, nonacademic atmosphere.
Current President: Jose Rodriguez

Juan.Rodriguezlatorre@ndsu.edu
Phone :231-7855

The program generally requires a minimum of two years full-time study for the M.S. degree and three years for a doctorate, during which an overall GPA of 3.0 or better must be maintained. For M.S. candidates, an oral defense of a research-based thesis and academic subject matter is required.

Candidates for the Ph.D. will be required to take a preliminary written and oral examination covering academic subject matter and a final oral defense of a research-based thesis. Plans of Study are developed to meet both disciplinary requirements as well as special interests of the students.

Research assistantships and part-time posistions are available in the department. Applicants are considered on the basis of scholarship and potential to undertake advanced study and research. To be considered for an assistantship, a completed Graduate School application, official transcripts, and three letteres of reference must be submitted. In addition to these materials, international applicants must also submit TOEFL scores. These items must be submitted to the Graduate School.

The Department of Plant Pathology graduate program is open to all qualified graduates of universities and colleges of recognized standing. To be admitted with full status to the program, the applicant must: