This program is available at the following location:

• Corvallis

Options available:

• Entomology
• Plant Breeding and Genetics

The Department of Horticulture offers graduate work leading to the Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees. The MS and PhD degrees culminate in original research reported in a thesis and are often pursued by students interested in research related careers, or who wish direct training in research methods.

The Department of Horticulture has strengths and expertise in:

Breeding, Genetics, and Biotechnology

Faculty and students explore fundamental questions related to the control and regulation of plant traits using a variety of techniques and tools including molecular biology, genomics and bioinformatics. Faculty and students also apply fundamental knowledge to make genetic improvements to crop plants and to modify plant growth and productivity. Current breeding programs exist in berry, hazelnut and vegetable systems.

Sustainable Crop Production

Faculty and students explore basic and applied questions related to the design and management of sustainable and productive horticultural cropping and farming systems. The program integrates a diverse set of disciplines and tools including basic plant sciences, applied crop management, and field experimentation and analysis. Program areas include viticulture and enology, berries and small fruit, tree fruit and nuts, vegetables, nursery and greenhouse production, and entomology.

Community and Landscape Horticultural Systems

Faculty and students explore basic and applied questions related to the design and function of urban and community landscapes including golf courses, sports fields, gardens, parks and open space. Program areas include turf and landscape management, community food systems, pollinator ecology, sustainable landscapes, and entomology.

Contact Information

For further information on the Masters and PhD programs, visit the Horticulture website or contact John Lambrinos, Graduate Program Director at john.lambrinos@oregonstate.edu

Major Code: 1450

Upon successful completion of the program, students will meet the following learning outcomes:

MS

• Conduct research or produce some other form of creative work.
• Demonstrate mastery of subject material.
• Conduct scholarly or professional activities in an ethical manner.
• Communicate effectively in written and verbal formats to the academic community, stakeholders, and the general public.
• Examine broader implications of the research. This can include analyzing social, economic, or environmental dimensions, as well as aspects that relate to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

PhD

• Produce and defend an original significant contribution to knowledge.
• Demonstrate mastery of subject material.
• Conduct scholarly activities in an ethical manner.
• Communicate effectively in written and verbal formats to the academic community, stakeholders, and the general public.
• Examine broader implications of the research. This can include analyzing social, economic, or environmental dimensions, as well as aspects that relate to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Horticulture coursework is tailored to the specific background, research focus, and professional goals of the student. Beyond the required core curriculum, the bulk of the program of study is composed of electives that can be drawn from other disciplines or departments. In addition, students must complete training in the responsible conduct of research. Refer to the Horticulture Graduate Student Handbook for details. Both the coursework and thesis research are guided by the student’s major professor and graduate committee. The graduate committee evaluates the thesis and the student’s knowledge of their field in a final oral examination.

MS

The M.S. degree consists of a minimum of 45 credits of coursework and original research that is reported in a thesis.

PhD

The PhD degree consists of a minimum of 108 credits of coursework and original research that is reported in a dissertation. Students must complete a teaching experience as prescribed by their graduate committee.

 Major Code: 1450