Graduate Students

The Department of Plant Pathology offers graduate work leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Our program provides education and research experience in the study of plant disease to prepare qualified graduates for college teaching and research positions as well as careers in industry and government.

Doctoral (Ph.D.)

The Doctoral degree usually requires three years of study and research beyond the Master's degree. Advancement to doctoral candidacy is decided on the basis of previous academic record, performance in graduate courses, and a candidacy examination. An advisory committee appointed by the program chair determines the specific course requirements, approves the research plan, and administers the comprehensive examination and thesis defense.

Master of Science (M.S.)

The Master of Science student is exposed to the breadth of the Plant Pathology discipline through coursework and a research thesis, usually completed in two years. A Master's graduate from Penn State can pursue a professional career in Plant Pathology or begin Ph.D. studies. Some exercise the option to continue onto their doctoral degree.

Dual-title degree program in International Agriculture and Development (INTAD)

Graduate students (both M.S. and Ph.D.) who are interested in strengthening their plant pathology degree by incorporating international experiences and credentials should consider applying to this dual-title degree program in the College of Agricultural Sciences. 

Graduate students must apply and be accepted into INTAD. Please note that Ph.D. students wishing to enroll in this Program must do so prior to taking the Candidacy Exam as a representative from INTAD is required for the exam.

To learn more about INTAD and admission requirements and process, please visit the program web site: http://agsci.psu.edu/international/graduatestudents/intad