TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Breeding
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
—
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Plant Breeding at Texas A&M University is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various sectors focused on plant breeding and improvement. This program equips graduates with advanced knowledge and skills to address global needs for food, feed, fiber, bioenergy, shelter, and aesthetic spaces. Graduates are well-prepared for positions in industry, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations involved in crop improvement or production, including private variety development companies, universities, and agricultural research entities. The program is available for both on-campus and asynchronous online study, offering flexibility for students.
Careers
Graduates of the Plant Breeding PhD program are prepared for leadership positions in various fields. They contribute to industries and organizations focused on improving plants for food, feed, fiber, bioenergy, shelter, and aesthetic purposes. The program's comprehensive training leads to diverse career opportunities.
- Plant Breeding Program Leader (Industry)
- Plant Breeding Program Leader (Governmental Agencies)
- Plant Breeding Program Leader (Non-Governmental Organizations)
- Private Variety Development Specialist
- University Researcher/Faculty
- Crop Consulting Firm Professional
- State Agricultural Experiment Station Scientist
- Cooperative Extension Service Specialist
- USDA-ARS Scientist
- State Department of Agriculture Professional
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Plant Breeding program?
- Applicants must hold an accredited Master's degree and fulfill the general admission requirements for graduate study at Texas A&M University. For specific admission details, it is recommended to contact a graduate advisor in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences.
- How are tuition and fees determined for international students?
- Tuition and fees vary based on student classification, residency status, and individual needs. Texas A&M University offers Locked Rate and Variable Rate Tuition plans, and students can use the online Tuition Calculator for personalized estimates.
- What is the structure of the PhD in Plant Breeding program?
- The PhD program involves coursework and research guided by an advisory committee. Key stages include committee formation, degree plan submission, preliminary and final examinations, and dissertation research.
- What are some potential career paths after completing the PhD in Plant Breeding?
- Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in industry, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Typical roles include Plant Breeding Program Leader, Private Variety Development Specialist, University Researcher/Faculty, and USDA-ARS Scientist.
- Does the university offer any financial support or scholarships for graduate students?
- Yes, Texas A&M University offers awards such as the Graduate Student Research and Presentation (RAP) Travel Award (up to $1000) and the Graduate Student Child Care (CC) Travel Award (up to $750) to help with conference travel and associated childcare costs.
- When is the deadline for submitting the degree plan?
- The degree plan must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the last day for completion of a Final Examination.
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeApplicants must have an accredited master's degree and meet general admission requirements for graduate study at Texas A&M University.
For specific admission details, prospective students should contact a graduate advisor in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fees at Texas A&M University can vary based on student classification, residency status, and individual needs. The university offers Locked Rate and Variable Rate Tuition plans, and information on payment plans is available. Students are encouraged to use the online Tuition Calculator for personalized estimates.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fees at Texas A&M University can vary based on student classification, residency status, and individual needs. The university offers Locked Rate and Variable Rate Tuition plans, and information on payment plans is available. Students are encouraged to use the online Tuition Calculator for personalized estimates.
LivingNo specific living cost estimate is provided, but students are encouraged to consider their personal needs and spending habits when planning their budget.
Texas A&M University offers a Texas Guaranteed Tuition Plan (formerly the Texas Tomorrow Fund) to cover tuition and required fees for eligible students. Billing explanations and details on rates by program are also available.
How to apply
1. Evaluate Previous Education and Consult with ProgramUpon admission to graduate studies, an advisory committee will evaluate your previous education. You will consult with the graduate program to select a chair and members for your advisory committee, tailored to your field of study and research interests.
2. Develop and Submit Degree PlanIn consultation with your advisory committee, you will develop a degree plan outlining the courses for your degree. This plan must be submitted and approved through the online Document Processing Submission System (DPSS) prior to college/school deadlines and approved by the Graduate and Professional School at least 90 days before your Final Examination.
3. Meet Credit RequirementsComplete sufficient coursework as required by your degree program, advisory committee, and/or academic unit. Coursework on the degree plan must adhere to specified requirements and restrictions.
4. Complete Preliminary ExaminationThis examination assesses your readiness for advanced research. Details on eligibility, scheduling, format, grading, and retake policies will be provided by your program.
5. Submit Research ProposalDevelop and submit a research proposal outlining your planned dissertation work, which will be reviewed and approved by your advisory committee.
6. Achieve Admission to CandidacyAfter fulfilling specific academic and examination requirements, you will apply for admission to candidacy, signifying formal progression in your doctoral program.
7. Complete Final ExaminationThis comprehensive examination covers your research and broader subject area. Information on eligibility, scheduling, format, grading, and expiration will be provided.
8. Submit DissertationConduct original research and write a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to the field of Plant Breeding. The dissertation must be approved by your advisory committee and the Graduate and Professional School.
Scholarships
Graduate Student Research and Presentation (RAP) Travel AwardUp to $1000
Graduate Student Child Care (CC) Travel AwardUp to $750
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Plant Breeding program?
+
Applicants must hold an accredited Master's degree and fulfill the general admission requirements for graduate study at Texas A&M University. For specific admission details, it is recommended to contact a graduate advisor in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences.
How are tuition and fees determined for international students?
+
Tuition and fees vary based on student classification, residency status, and individual needs. Texas A&M University offers Locked Rate and Variable Rate Tuition plans, and students can use the online Tuition Calculator for personalized estimates.
What is the structure of the PhD in Plant Breeding program?
+
The PhD program involves coursework and research guided by an advisory committee. Key stages include committee formation, degree plan submission, preliminary and final examinations, and dissertation research.
What are some potential career paths after completing the PhD in Plant Breeding?
+
Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in industry, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Typical roles include Plant Breeding Program Leader, Private Variety Development Specialist, University Researcher/Faculty, and USDA-ARS Scientist.
Does the university offer any financial support or scholarships for graduate students?
+
Yes, Texas A&M University offers awards such as the Graduate Student Research and Presentation (RAP) Travel Award (up to $1000) and the Graduate Student Child Care (CC) Travel Award (up to $750) to help with conference travel and associated childcare costs.
When is the deadline for submitting the degree plan?
+
The degree plan must be submitted no later than 90 days prior to the last day for completion of a Final Examination.