> M.S. Curriculum & Info

Summary of M.S. Degree Requirements
The M.S. degree may be a terminal degree or an interim degree for students working toward a Ph.D.
Requirements include:
• a minimum of 21 credits total, at least 9 credits in Plant Pathology courses, other than PP990 (Research) and counting only 1 credit of PP 923 (Seminar).
• attendance at Plant Pathology departmental seminar (PP 923) is expected.
• some form of public speaking at least once per year, which can include the final research seminar.
• at least one 1-credit PP 875 Special Topics Seminar.
• formal Plant Pathology departmental final research seminar. Students must register for PP 923 during the semester in which they present their seminar.
• a thesis.
• a comprehensive oral Masters Thesis Defense.

TIME TO DEGREE—Master of Science
Students entering into the MS program normally complete degree requirements in 2 to 3 years, although the major advisor may require completion in less time. MS students are expected to meet with their thesis research committee and be certified by the end of their first year in the program and are expected to complete all degree requirements within 3 years. Those who do not meet these expectations will be placed on academic probation by the Graduate School. Students who anticipate being unable to meet these deadlines, or who are explicitly pursuing the degree part-time can request in writing an extension from the Academic Affairs committee.

Schedule for Completion of MS Degree Requirements*

• The MS degree in Plant Pathology requires a minimum of 21 credits total. At least 9 credits must be in Plant Pathology courses, with no more than 6 credits in PP990 (Research).

Year 1—To be completed by the end of Year 1:
• Select thesis research committee
• Meet with committee and complete certification
• Seminar/oral presentation

Year 2—To be completed by the end of Year 2:
• Meet with committee to present research to date and future plans
• Complete required coursework
• Seminar/oral presentation

Year 3—To be completed by the end of Year 3:
• Write thesis
• Give final research seminar on day of thesis defense or in the preceding 6 months
• Thesis defense exam

*A 3-year schedule is provided; however, the major advisor may require completion in a shorter period of time.

If a graduate student is admitted to the Department’s M.S. program and subsequently decides to pursue a Ph.D., this change of graduate program will require the recommendation of the student’s M.S. advisory committee to the Academic Affairs Committee. The Academic Affairs Committee will then make a recommendation concerning the student’s admission to the doctoral program to the Chair, as per standard procedure for all doctoral program applicants. This policy does not apply to students admitted to the Ph.D. program who choose to earn an M.S. degree on their way to a Ph.D. (adopted by faculty 10/10/00).

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