Master of Science in Agricultural Science

The Master of Science in Agricultural Science is a 30-unit degree program designated to provide advanced studies and in-depth knowledge to professionals in the agricultural industry and to provide the first graduate degree for students. The goal of the program is to prepare students for advanced academic study and/or future careers in the agricultural industry so that they may make a positive contribution in the farm to fork process. To accomplish this goal, the curriculum is flexible to accommodate a wide variety of interest areas within the agricultural industry. This flexibility provides students with the opportunity to design an individualized program of study that best addresses their academic and career aspirations. Coursework will be focused on animal science and agricultural education and communication, but may also include courses in agricultural business, chemistry, biology, food science, business, education, or in other areas with approval to meet the needs of individual student programs. A thesis, project, or comprehensive exam can be taken to fulfill degree requirements. Full-time graduate students may earn the degree within two years when working closely with an adviser. To accommodate part-time students, graduate courses are offered in the late afternoon or evening.

The Master of Science in Agricultural Science assumes preparation equivalent to a bachelor of science in animal science or agricultural education from an accredited institution. Students with an undergraduate degree in other fields or from other institutions who need to make up course deficiencies must consult with the graduate coordinator.

Applicants whose preparatory education was principally in a language other than English must pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Test (IELTS). Applicants must receive a minimum score of 550 on the paper-based TOEFL or a minimum of 213 on the computer-based TOEFL or a minimum of 80 on the Internet-based (iBT) TOEFL or a minimum of 6.5 overall band score on the IELTS. Application Deadlines: Fall - June 1 and Spring - November 1.