Students are encouraged to take courses that provide a broad background in biological and physical sciences in addition to training in specialized areas. The doctoral program aims to provide a high quality crop and soil science experience to equip students with the skills necessary for research, teaching, and extension, or other agriculture-related positions that require the Doctor of Philosophy degree.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Regular admission may be granted to students who have a master's degree or its equivalent, a 3.00 grade-point average, and appropriate training in the biological and physical sciences and mathematics. Outstanding students without a master's degree may be accepted. Provisional admission may be granted to students who do not meet the requirements for regular admission. Students with deficiencies in their backgrounds will be required to complete collateral courses in addition to the courses that are required for the master's degree. Collateral course work does not count towards the degree requirements.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Crop and Soil Sciences
All doctoral students must plan their degree program in consultation with the guidance committee and their major professor and must meet the requirements specified below:
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Complete at least 24 credits including one of the following writing courses: |
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CSS |
880 |
Scientific Communication and Professional Development |
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ENT |
812 |
Graduate Seminar |
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1 |
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HRT |
860 |
Scientific Writing: Workshop |
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Acquire experience in either (a) teaching, by serving as a teaching assistant in a course, or (b) extension through the development and delivery of outreach programs or materials, as approved by the guidance committee. |
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Complete the responsible conduct of research training. |
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Complete 24 credits of CSS 999 Doctoral Dissertation Research. |
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Complete a written dissertation proposal and present its results publicly at a departmental seminar prior to graduation. |
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Presentation of at least one oral seminar on the dissertation research at a professional meeting. |
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Complete oral and written comprehensive examinations. |
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Pass a final oral examination in defense of the dissertation before the guidance committee immediately after the public seminar at which the dissertation results are presented. |
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