Penn State also offers a minor in mushroom science and technology. The minor has existed for about two or three years, but no students have enrolled, said Dan Royse, professor of plant pathology. Before the university established the minor, many students studying plant pathology interned in the mushroom science field. The university decided to formalize the program by adding the minor in response to student interest, Royse said. The internship involves spending time in mushroom facilities.
Students can also take courses on test management and computers.
Students minoring in mushroom science and technology would be able to pursue different jobs in the mushroom industries, as growers or managers, Royse said. The university will continue to keep the minor available. Student interest goes in cycles and depends on how well the mushroom industry is doing, Royse said. It's doing a little better now, maybe we will get students in the minor soon. One Web site.