Biological Sciences (Ph.D.) - Plant Molecular Biology Specialization

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Program Information
The Plant Science Department is an integrated department that includes programs in crop production, plant breeding, entomology, plant pathology, soils, GIS, water management, weed science, and biotechnology. The primary goals of the department are to conduct research in the above areas, to transmit the results to the public, and to help prepare students for quality lives which includes preparation for an occupation in one or more of the above-mentioned disciplines. Graduate training includes classroom instruction, seminars designed to hone oral and written skills, and meaningful experience in laboratory and field research techniques. Departmental diversity encourages collaborations among disciplines and research programs that inform graduate training.

Course Delivery
The program coursework is available on campus, in classroom and laboratory settings, as well as field-based settings.

Facilities and Services
The department is housed in six buildings across campus. These buildings provide research and teaching laboratories, greenhouses, seed house facilities and access to the functional genomics core facility. The on-campus facilities also include the SDSU Seed Testing Laboratory, SDSU Plant Diagnostics Clinic, Seed Certification, and Foundation Seed Stocks Division, which operates as services for the public. In addition, the department conduct research at three research farms near campus and four research stations across the state. The Field Specialists are housed in six regional extension offices across the state. The latest addition is the new McCrory Gardens Education and Outreach Center.

Student Engagement Opportunities
Numerous opportunities are available for part-time employment, scholarships, and work-study programs. The Arboriculture Club, Agronomy and Conservation Club, Horticulture Club, Landscape Club, or Turfjack Club offer opportunities for fellowship, leadership, and career planning. The Department has nationally recognized crops, horticulture, and soils judging teams.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Doctor of Philosophy 60 Credit Plan
90 Credit Plan

Core Requirements

For details see specific programs: PhD in Biological Sciences .

The student, major advisor and Advisory Committee select the discipline specific emphasis area of the biological sciences. The courses will be identified on the student’s Plan of Study no later than the end of the first year of study.

XXX 790 or 890 Seminar Credit: 1 - Selected with advisory committee approval
GSR 601 - Research Regulations Compliance Credit: 1
Minimum of 3 credits of STAT courses numbered 500-level or higher
XXX 898D Dissertation Credits: 30-40 - Students are required to present a seminar on their dissertation

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: recommended, but not required
TOEFL: minimum requirement of 560 paper-based, 220 computer-based, 83 Internet-based
Students must be accepted by an advisor before admission is granted.

General Requirements (PhD)

Graduate students must consult with their advisor before registering for graduate work.

For additional information see Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements .