Plant pathology

Master of Science

Ten students in the campus greenhouses

Explore interactions between plants and microbes

Plant pathologists keep plants healthy. Gain skills to understand organisms and agents that cause disease and discover how plants grow and how disease affects them. This program focuses on the biology and ecology involved in keeping plants healthy. You will learn about plant diseases, nematodes and bugs that threaten plants as well as what plants do to persevere.

Use modern scientific equipment and techniques to find out how pathogens attack plants and understand the effects of environmental conditions on disease development. Much of your learning will take place at plant science farms across the state, in climate-controlled greenhouses or in laboratories where you will conduct independent research alongside leading faculty field experts.

Highlights from the M.S. plant pathology degree include:

  • Conduct independent research alongside leading faculty field experts.
  • Learn at plant science farms across the state.
  • Work in climate-controlled greenhouses and laboratories.
  • Earn an in-demand degree, with nearly 100% job placement.
Overview
Duration:
1 year, 17-18 credits
Locations:
Moscow

Related Topics

AgricultureBiologySustainability

Dive into the world of plants and prevent disease

Degree fit

This program could be a good fit if you:

  • Have an undergrad degree in agriculture, biology, botany, horticulture, environmental science, plant science, natural resources or a related field.
  • Want to lead lab or field research.
  • Think critically and creatively about complex problems.
  • Want to protect the environment, grow healthy crops and create an adequate food supply.
Career outcomes

Current job openings

2,320 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HI

Potential careers and starting salaries

  • Postsecondary Agricultural Sciences Teachers • Postsecondary Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers
    $48,689
  • Agricultural Managers
    $15,736
  • Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers
    $28,975
  • Environmental Restoration Planners
    $58,114
  • Conservation Scientists • Range Managers
    $49,840
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Career Services

* Career data provided by Lightcast.

Financial aid and scholarship opportunities

Financial aid

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.

For information on FAFSA deadlines, financial aid types and eligibility requirements, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.

Plan ahead—estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.

Clubs and involvement opportunities

Hands-on learning

  • Manage on-campus computer-controlled greenhouses and laboratories
  • Conduct research at U of I and Washington State University facilities
  • Partner with the William F. Barr Entomological Museum
  • Assist faculty members’ research projects

Clubs

Application Information

Applicants for the M.S. in plant pathology must meet the admission requirements below:

  • Education level: Bachelor’s
  • GPA: 3.0
  • GRE: No
  • TOEFL/IELTS: 79/6.5
  • Number of references: 3
  • Other requirements: Encourage pre-approval from a program faculty member before applying

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