Program Information
The Plant Science Department is an integrated department that includes programs in crop production, entomology, horticulture, plant biotechnology, plant breeding, plant pathology, precision farming, soils, water management, and weed science. The primary goals of the department are to conduct research in these areas, to transmit the results to the public, and to help prepare students for an occupation in these disciplines and to become productive members of a community. Graduate training includes classroom instruction, teaching experience, seminars designed to refine oral and written skills, and meaningful experience in laboratory and field research techniques. Departmental diversity encourages collaborations among disciplines and research programs that support this 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 seven buildings across campus. These buildings provide research and teaching laboratories, greenhouses, seed house facilities and access to the functional genomics core facility. The on and off-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 four research farms near campus and four research stations across the state. The Field Specialists are housed in seven regional extension offices across the state.
Student Engagement Opportunities
Numerous opportunities are available for part-time employment, scholarships, and work-study programs. The Arboriculture Club, Agronomy and Conservation Club, or Horticulture Club offer opportunities for fellowship, leadership, and career planning. The Department has nationally recognized crops, horticulture, and soils judging teams.
