Overview

The Plant Pathology programme at the University of California, Riverside provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the biological sciences. This academic offering is designed to address critical global challenges in agriculture, food security, and environmental sustainability through rigorous scientific enquiry.

The curriculum is structured to accommodate both Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy candidates, ensuring a versatile educational experience. Students engage in high-level research across five primary areas, including host-pathogen interactions, nematology, and microbial ecology. The department fosters a collaborative environment where academic theory meets practical application.

For those pursuing the M.Sc.

Why Plant Pathology at the University of California, Riverside?

The institution is home to world-renowned faculty, including elected members of the National Academy of Sciences. Students benefit from specialised research centres and a department that integrates microbiology with plant health. The programme is distinguished by its focus on evolutionary biology and modern genomic techniques.

Research facilities at the university support cutting-edge investigations into fungal, bacterial, and viral plant diseases. The collaborative nature of the College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences ensures that students have access to interdisciplinary expertise. Furthermore, Ph.D. students often receive financial support through fellowships and assistantships.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 12005 per semester
National fee: USD 12005 per semester
Local fee: USD 4490 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum includes a variety of core and elective modules designed to build technical expertise. Students participate in regular seminars to stay informed about current developments in the field. Field trips and laboratory work are integral components of the learning process.

Modules may include:

Plant Pathology
Mycology
Seminar in Plant Pathology
Fungal Diseases of Plants
Bacterial and Viral Diseases of Plants
Phytopathogens: Nematodes
Colloquium on the Plant Pathology
Field Plant Pathology

Careers with Plant Pathology

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for diverse roles in academia, government agencies, and the private agricultural sector. Many alumni pursue careers as research scientists, plant health inspectors, or consultants for international biotechnology firms. The expertise gained in microbial genomics and disease management is highly valued in the global bio-economy.

Industries such as commercial horticulture, crop protection, and environmental conservation actively seek specialists with this advanced training. The programme's emphasis on independent research ensures that graduates possess the analytical skills required for leadership positions. Many Ph.D. holders continue into postdoctoral fellowships or faculty roles at leading universities.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Seminar in Plant Pathology

Fungal Diseases of Plants

Bacterial and Viral Diseases of Plants

Seminar in Plant Pathology

Phytopathogens: Nematodes (odd years)

A Colloquium on the Principles of Plant Pathology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Riverside, United States

Disciplines

Horticulture and Crop Science Botany View 97 other Masters in Horticulture and Crop Science in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

Students typically have a baccalaureate major in a biological science or training equivalent to that given in the Plant Science curriculum of the College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences . Majors in the physical sciences are welcomed, but students must be prepared to augment their undergraduate preparation with courses in the biological sciences.

The GRE is no longer required for admission.

All candidates for the M.S. or the Ph.D. degree should have good basic preparation in chemistry and biology. It is common for students to have completed courses in biochemistry, organic chemistry, cell and molecular biology, elementary college mathematics, general physics, general botany, microbiology, statistics, genetics, plant physiology, mycology, and plant pathology.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

24010 USD / year

≈ 24010 USD / year
Out-of-State

24010 USD / year

≈ 24010 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8980 USD / year

≈ 8980 USD / year

Living costs

Riverside

United States

1100 - 1600 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Plant Pathology.

Available Scholarships

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Riverside

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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