Agricultural Science, Entomology major, Non-Thesis Option, MS

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Agricultural Sciences (Non-Thesis) program offers a flexible option for students seeking advanced knowledge in agriculture. It replaces the thesis requirement with a research project and directed electives, allowing students to tailor their studies to their career goals. The program includes concentrations in Agribusiness, Entomology, Soil and Water Science, and Plant Science, and culminates in a comprehensive exit exam and seminar. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, academia, government, and the private sector.

Program Outline

Outline:

• The non-thesis option differs from the existing Master of Science degree program by replacing the six (6) hours of thesis with a research project and two directed electives and administering written and oral comprehensive exit exams designed and administered by the student’s graduate committee.
• The replacement courses will not include supervised research or thesis and will be selected by the student with the approval of their graduate committee and the Graduate Coordinator.
• These additional courses will permit students to further focus their graduate training in specialties they and their committee believe are important to their professional development.
• Students will be required to take one (1) hour of supervised research in their final semester of enrollment for the expressed purpose of taking their written and oral exit exams.
• The Master of Science Non-Thesis includes concentrations in Agribusiness, Entomology, Soil and Water Science and Plant Science.
• Candidates are required to successfully complete at least thirty-six (36) semester hours including the six (6) hours of course work and a research project.
• MS candidates in all concentrations are required to take AGR 5825 (Fundamentals of Research Design) or Statistical Methods in Research 1 and 2, AGG 5931 (Professional Seminar), AGG 5920 (Colloquium), and three (3) to five (5) courses (varying by concentration) in their major field of study and several electives approved by their Supervisory Committee.

Assessment:

• The students must give an exit seminar and pass a final examination administered by the Supervisory Committee.
• The exam has both written and oral components and each member of the committee participates in both exams.
• The oral portion of the exam is administered by the student’s Supervisory Committee.

Careers:

• Students who complete the MS in Agricultural Sciences can pursue careers in research, academia, government, and the private sector.
• Graduates with a concentration in Entomology may find employment as entomologists, insect pathologists, or pest management consultants.