The Master of Science degree in Plant Breeding is designed to prepare students for non-academic careers in the genetic improvement of food, feed, fiber, bioenergy, shelter, and aesthetic-space plants. The Graduate Program of the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences is designed to prepare students for careers in research, teaching, extension, industry, and management of agronomic enterprises. Members of the faculty have expertise in biological sciences, biotechnology, cereal chemistry, crop breeding and genetics, cooperative extension technology, crop physiology, cytogenetics, ecosystem management, environmental physics, environmental sciences, environmental soil science, environmental toxicology, genetics, invasive weed species, microbiology, molecular biology, molecular genetics, physical sciences, plant physiology, protein chemistry, quantitative plant genetics, soil chemistry, soil fertility, soil genesis and classification, soil hydrological sciences, soil microbiology, soil mineralogy, soil physics, turfgrass science, turfgrass management, urban ecosystem management, water quality, watershed management, and weed science. Thesis is required.
Mission Statement
The Department of Horticultural Sciences is focused on improving the quality of life related to the aesthetic disciplines, the production of healthful fruits and vegetables, and improving the utility and sustainability of the built environment. The MS in Plant Breeding prepares students to accomplish this mission by providing them with the knowledge, resources and skills to become productive researchers in the field of plant breeding. The MS in Plant Breeding is obtained through appropriate course work, completion of research and other requirements, successful completion of university-directed administrative procedures, and successful defense of the thesis. A research project and specific coursework will be outlined by the student with guidance from the student's graduate advisory committee members. The Master of Science in Plant Breeding is research-based and prepares students for industry positions as assistant breeders or for technical positions in an academic or government plant breeding program. Students completing an MS in Plant Breeding are also prepared to continue on to the PhD in Plant Breeding.
