Plant Pathology, Entomology, and Microbiology

Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the intricate science of plant health and disease management with Iowa State University's Plant Pathology graduate program. Tailored for aspiring plant scientists and agricultural professionals, our program offers a robust curriculum that integrates advanced research with practical application.
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  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in plant pathology.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to knowledge and practice of plant pathology.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate data acquisition and analysis; appropriately interpret results and integrate data into existing knowledge.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate technical and practical information, both orally and in writing, to the scientific community, Extension audiences, and the general public.
  • Conduct scholarship or other professional activities, in teams or independently, in ways that demonstrate and promote ethical practice, and professionalism.

Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.0 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.6 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in plant pathology.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to knowledge and practice of plant pathology.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate data acquisition and analysis; appropriately interpret results and integrate data into existing knowledge.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate technical and practical information, both orally and in writing, to the scientific community, Extension audiences, and the general public.
  • Conduct scholarship or other professional activities, in teams or independently, in ways that demonstrate and promote ethical practice, professionalism, diversity and inclusion.
515-294-9052

Dai Nguyen

plantpath@iastate.edu
Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology
207 Science Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1020

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Applications are accepted year round; however, to ensure full consideration for financial support (assistantships and fellowships), applications are due January 1 for Fall admission and August 1 for Spring admission.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

 

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
munkvold@iastate.edu
Program Staff
dna112@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
tbaum@iastate.edu
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