FAQs

Admission is based on assessment of a student’s potential for performing at the graduate level as determined by scholastic record, letters of recommendation, and additional information. Superior students with a bachelor’s degree in the biological, agricultural, or physical sciences will be well-prepared to begin graduate study in Plant Pathology. Coursework should include organic chemistry and biochemistry, statistics, botany, genetics, microbiology, and plant physiology. It is possible to take a limited number of such courses during an M.S. degree program if they are lacking at the time of admission. Applicants may be admitted with either a bachelor’s or master’s degree. A minimum grade point average of 3.00 (B) is required for admission and continuation of a graduate student.

The first step is to complete an application using the WSU Graduate School online application. In addition to the Graduate School’s application, you will need to provide a Personal Statement, describing research interests and career goals, as well as transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.

See the Application Checklist for complete information.

The application deadline for Fall is January 10 and for Spring is July 1.

No, the GRE is not required.

Yes, see list of those currently available in the Department.

Applicants with a BS degree may apply for direct admission to the PhD program. Each applicant is considered on a case-by-case basis.  Applicants must include the following materials with their application to receive consideration:

  • Documented evidence of research experience: Provide a one-page description of a research project you were involved with. The description should include the nature of the research project, duration, your supervisor, your role and involvement in the project, what you learned from the project, and any publications or conference presentations resulting from the project with which you were involved (and your role in the publication and presentation).
  • Statement of Purpose: Address specifically why you want to enroll in the PhD program before completing an MS degree, your interests in pursuing a PhD, and your career goals.
  • Grades: Minimum GPA of 3.25.
  • Language Requirements:  Please refer to the Graduate School’s language requirements. GRE scores are not required.

Please refer to the detailed information on the Graduate School site.  Applicants who are required to submit exam scores will be held incomplete until those are received.

Once you submit your application and we determine you meet the minimum qualifications, your application packet will be reviewed by faculty for consideration.  We do have limited available positions, so students are selected by faculty members with matching interests who have an opening for a graduate student. Graduate students are supported primarily by research assistantships, so we only accept students we have support for or who come with their own support.

CAHNRS Academic Programs Graduate Center
ask.capgc@wsu.edu