PhD - Doctor of Philosophy in Crop Science PHD Program By Washington State University |Top Universities
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Main Subject Area

Agriculture and ForestryMain Subject Area

Program overview

Main Subject

Agriculture and Forestry

Study Level

PHD

Crop Science specialization areas include Plant Genetics and Crop Breeding, Crop Physiology, and Crop Ecology, Management and Production. While students may elect to specialize in one area, excellent opportunities are available for the development of graduate research projects integrating two or more areas. Plant breeding and genetics research programs include improvement of spring and winter wheat, barley, oilseed crops, pea, lentil, and other legumes, as well as work on alternative crops like quinoa. Plant breeding and genetics faculty apply state of the art equipment and methodologies for genetic, genomic, molecular genetics, and phenotypic analyses, which are conducted in field, greenhouse, and laboratory settings. From model systems to participatory variety selection with small-holder farmers, our faculty apply integrated and comprehensive approaches to solve real-world problems in crop production. Current research focuses on genetics, gene function, and physiology of water and nitrogen use efficiency, heat and drought stress tolerance, yield and its component traits, hormone signaling, germplasm development, polyploid evolution, grain end-use quality and nutrition, seed germination and dormancy, pest and pathogen resistance, and herbicide resistance. Crop production research includes investigation of weed control and ecology, seed production and technology, and turf management. Crop or Soil Science degree programs can also be developed to study sustainability of alternative cropping systems such as organic, site-specific, biointensive and direct-seed systems that focus on crop productivity, economic stability, biodiversification, natural resource conservation, and environmental protection.

Program overview

Main Subject

Agriculture and Forestry

Study Level

PHD

Crop Science specialization areas include Plant Genetics and Crop Breeding, Crop Physiology, and Crop Ecology, Management and Production. While students may elect to specialize in one area, excellent opportunities are available for the development of graduate research projects integrating two or more areas. Plant breeding and genetics research programs include improvement of spring and winter wheat, barley, oilseed crops, pea, lentil, and other legumes, as well as work on alternative crops like quinoa. Plant breeding and genetics faculty apply state of the art equipment and methodologies for genetic, genomic, molecular genetics, and phenotypic analyses, which are conducted in field, greenhouse, and laboratory settings. From model systems to participatory variety selection with small-holder farmers, our faculty apply integrated and comprehensive approaches to solve real-world problems in crop production. Current research focuses on genetics, gene function, and physiology of water and nitrogen use efficiency, heat and drought stress tolerance, yield and its component traits, hormone signaling, germplasm development, polyploid evolution, grain end-use quality and nutrition, seed germination and dormancy, pest and pathogen resistance, and herbicide resistance. Crop production research includes investigation of weed control and ecology, seed production and technology, and turf management. Crop or Soil Science degree programs can also be developed to study sustainability of alternative cropping systems such as organic, site-specific, biointensive and direct-seed systems that focus on crop productivity, economic stability, biodiversification, natural resource conservation, and environmental protection.

Admission requirements

7+

Tuition fee and scholarships

One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.

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More programs from the university

Washington State University is a top-tier public research university where scholars strive to make the world a better place. Students volunteer 75,000+ hours of service annually. Undergraduates learn hands-on, alongside professors whose discoveries resonate globally. Research addresses issues in health, food, energy, sustainability, social opportunity, and global security.

  • 200+ FIELDS OF STUDY. Many undergraduate programs rank among America’s best. Broadcasting students gain practical experience at student-run television and radio stations. Organic agriculture students work on a 30-acre certified organic teaching farm. Business majors study overseas to experience cross-cultural practices.
  • LEARN BY DOING. Students enter national competitions in robotics, clean energy, business, and more. They present papers at conferences and publish findings in scholarly journals.
  • INTERNATIONAL EMPHASIS. Study abroad programs span 86 countries. The Honors College immerses students in discussion of international issues. 1,700+ international students enrich cultural diversity on campus.
  • 76 MASTER’S AND 66 DOCTORAL PROGRAMS. Plus, professional programs include business administration, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine. An independently accredited medical school is planned for the Spokane Health Sciences Campus.
  • STATEWIDE AND WORLDWIDE REACH. At the flagship Pullman campus, Cougar spirit unites 18,000+ students. WSU also has locations in Spokane, Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and Everett. Extension offices occupy every county. Online education is accessible worldwide.

Washington State University is a top-tier public research university where scholars strive to make the world a better place. Research addresses issues in health, food, energy, sustainability, social opportunity, and global security.

  • 76 MASTER’S AND 66 DOCTORAL PROGRAMS, PLUS PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS. Professional programs include business administration, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine. An independently accredited medical school is planned for the Health Sciences Campus in Spokane.
  • NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FACULTY. WSU scholars include members of the National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, Institute of Medicine, and recipients of numerous national awards and fellowships. WSU researchers garner worldwide recognition for their discoveries. Many stand among the most widely published and frequently cited scholars in the nation.
  • COLLABORATION WITH NATIONAL LAB AND U.S. AGENCIES. WSU scholars team with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on research for sustainable production of bioproducts and biofuels. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service works seamlessly with WSU researchers from on-campus offices.
  • STATEWIDE AND WORLDWIDE REACH. The main WSU campus in Pullman, nestled among the rolling hills of southeastern Washington, serves 18,000+ students. The Health Sciences Campus sits along the scenic riverfront in Spokane. Additional locations include Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and Everett. Online education is accessible worldwide.

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