UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN–MADISON · UNITED STATES
Horticulture, PhD
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Admissions suspended Fall 2026; program discontinued Fall 2032.Program Status
- Specializations in diverse crop science areas.Research Focus
- Extensive research facilities including labs, greenhouses, and field stations.Facilities
- Access to unique collections, e.g., tuber-bearing Solanums.Resources
- Mentored research leading to dissertation.Dissertation
The PhD in Horticulture program provides advanced graduate training focused on various aspects of crop science. Students work closely with a major advisor and a committee of at least four faculty members to conduct in-depth research, culminating in a dissertation. Specializations include organic and sustainable horticulture, urban and regional food systems, the environmental impact of horticultural practices, plant breeding, plant biochemistry and molecular biology, microculture and biotechnology, weed control, and biostatistics. Research can utilize a wide range of plant types, from common vegetables and fruits to model species like Arabidopsis thaliana. Research facilities are extensive, including specialized labs, controlled environment chambers, greenhouses, and access to field plot areas at university research farms and arboretums. These sites offer opportunities to work with diverse collections, such as the world's largest collection of tuber-bearing Solanums. The program requires a public presentation and defense of the dissertation upon completion.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission deadlines for the PhD in Horticulture program?
- The application deadline for Fall entry is December 1st, for Spring entry it is September 1st, and for Summer entry it is December 1st.
- What are the academic prerequisites for the PhD in Horticulture program?
- Applicants need an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and preparatory coursework in physical sciences, biological sciences, statistics, and soil science.
- How do I apply to the PhD in Horticulture program?
- The application process involves two steps: applying to the Graduate School and completing the Horticulture program's supplementary application. It is recommended to contact potential faculty advisors before applying.
- What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants must submit scores meeting the Graduate School's minimum English proficiency requirements, as detailed in their policy.
- Is financial support available for PhD in Horticulture students?
- Funding is often available through assistantships, fellowships, and traineeships, and all applicants are automatically considered for financial support.
- What is the duration of the PhD in Horticulture program?
- The program requires a minimum of 51 credits, with at least 32 credits in residence, and students work with their committee to design a personalized course of study.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeAcademic average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) with evidence of proficiency in agriculture and plant sciences.
Preparatory CourseworkCourses in Physical Sciences (Physics, Calculus, Organic Chemistry lecture, Organic Chemistry lab or Biochemistry lab), Biological Sciences (Crop Production, Plant Breeding or Genetics, Plant Structure/Taxonomy/Physiology, Plant Pathology or Entomology), Statistics, and Soil Science.
Graduate School PolicyRefer to Graduate School minimum requirements for English Proficiency.
Applicants must meet both Graduate School minimum requirements and program-specific requirements. Contact faculty advisors before applying. Admissions for Fall 2026 are suspended, and the program will be discontinued in Fall 2032. Consider the new Plant Science and Technology PhD program.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
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Information on tuition and fees can be found via the Bursar's Office. Funding is often available through assistantships, fellowships, and traineeships. All applicants are automatically considered for financial support.
How to apply
1. Research and Contact FacultyIdentify faculty members whose research aligns with your interests and contact them before and during the application process, as students are admitted directly into a faculty member's lab.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather transcripts (unofficial PDFs for application, official copies if recommended for admission), a Statement of Purpose detailing research interests and career goals, and secure three letters of recommendation.
3. Submit Graduate School ApplicationComplete the online application for the Graduate School and pay the application fee. The Horticulture program's supplementary application will appear within the Graduate School's portal.
4. Provide Proof of English ProficiencyInternational applicants must submit scores meeting the Graduate School's English proficiency requirements.
5. Apply OnlineSubmit your complete application through the UW-Madison Graduate School's online application system by the specified deadlines.
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission deadlines for the PhD in Horticulture program?
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The application deadline for Fall entry is December 1st, for Spring entry it is September 1st, and for Summer entry it is December 1st.
What are the academic prerequisites for the PhD in Horticulture program?
+
Applicants need an undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and preparatory coursework in physical sciences, biological sciences, statistics, and soil science.
How do I apply to the PhD in Horticulture program?
+
The application process involves two steps: applying to the Graduate School and completing the Horticulture program's supplementary application. It is recommended to contact potential faculty advisors before applying.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants must submit scores meeting the Graduate School's minimum English proficiency requirements, as detailed in their policy.
Is financial support available for PhD in Horticulture students?
+
Funding is often available through assistantships, fellowships, and traineeships, and all applicants are automatically considered for financial support.
What is the duration of the PhD in Horticulture program?
+
The program requires a minimum of 51 credits, with at least 32 credits in residence, and students work with their committee to design a personalized course of study.