Master of Science in Horticultural Biology

Although emphasis is on horticultural plants and systems commonly found in areas of temperate climate, graduate study on species and cropping systems of tropical areas is also possible by use of our extensive greenhouse and growth chamber facilities, and through conduct of thesis research in tropical areas. Members of the graduate field of horticulture reside in the Department of Horticulture on the Ithaca campus, and at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva. In addition, some faculty members of other departments such as Plant Biology, Plant Breeding, Crop and Soil Science, etc., may also be members of the graduate field of horticulture. Minor fields of study may be selected from such areas as plant physiology, pathology, anatomy, or ecology, biochemistry, botany, entomology, taxonomy, genetics, education, soils, agricultural, resource, and managerial economics, communication, agricultural and biological engineering, and landscape architecture. All students receive experience in academic education and Cooperative Extension programs.

A strong background in life sciences is important, as evidenced by grades, coursework and research projects undertaken. Three letters of recommendation and the
For all non-native English speaking students, a minimum TOEFL of reading 20, writing 20, listening 15 and speaking 22 (Internet-based test) is required and a cumulative score is not acceptable.
The Graduate School requires an overall band score of a 7.0 or higher on the IELTS.
Three recommendations
GRE scores are not required. If you choose to submit them, the scores will be considered, along with the totality of your academic record, solely to assess the strength of your academic preparation.