Program is a research-oriented, interdisciplinary graduate program.
The student's program consists of research, seminars, colloquia, formal course work, and a thesis or dissertation. The Department of Plant Biology offers programs leading to M.S., M.N.S., and Ph.D. degrees in various areas of the plant sciences with the aid of numerous modern research facilities and experienced faculty. The master's program is designed to increase expertise and research skills in a focused area of research and prepare a student to pursue a career as a supporting researcher in the biotechnology industry. The doctoral program is designed to provide students with a broad basic knowledge of biochemistry and molecular biology, to develop effective communication skills, and to gain the technical expertise necessary to become an independent investigator. In addition, graduate students should draw from the other educational offerings and form the cultural life of the University, not only for their own enjoyment, but so they can better meet all of their lifelongprofessional, societal, and political responsibilities.