Agricultural Science and Plant Protection
Department Head: Dr. Dan Peterson (Interim)
Graduate Coordinator: Dr. Natraj Krishnan
133 Clay Lyle Building
Box 9775
Mississippi State, MS 39762
Telephone: 662-325-2978
E-mail: nkrishnan@entomology.msstate.edu; nk260@msstate.edu
The department offers graduate study leading to the following degrees:
- Master of Science in Agricultural Life Sciences with a concentration in Biochemistry, Entomology, or Plant Pathology
- Master of Agriculture in Agriculture with a concentration in Entomology or Plant Pathology
- Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology
- Doctor of Philosophy in Life Sciences with a concentration in Biochemistry, Entomology, or Plant Pathology
The department also participates in interdisciplinary programs leading to the following degrees:
- Master of Science in Agricultural Life Sciences with a concentration in Animal Physiology or Genetics
- Master of Science in Agriculture with a concentration in Animal Nutrition
- Doctor of Philosophy in Life Sciences with concentrations in Animal Physiology or Genetics
- Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Sciences with a concentration in Animal Nutrition
Admission Criteria
Prerequisites for admission include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a physical or life science with a strong background in the program discipline of interest (biochemistry, molecular biology, entomology, or plant pathology). A graduate screening committee, composed of members of the Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology faculty, screens all applicants. Final acceptance into a graduate program is contingent upon the availability of a suitable major professor. A minimum 2.75 overall grade point average on a 4.00 scale is required for admission. Test scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) are not a required component of a completed application, but may be submitted for consideration if a candidate feels they may help offset another component of the application, such as a low GPA. International students are required to have a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 500 PBT (61 iBT) or an IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems) score of 5.5 (non-English speaking international students).
Provisional Admission
An applicant who has not fully met the GPA requirement stipulated by the University may be admitted on a provisional basis. The provisionally-admitted student is eligible for a change to regular status after receiving a 3.00 GPA on the first 9 hours of graduate courses at Mississippi State University (with no grade lower than a C). The first 9 hours of graduate courses must be within the student's program of study. Courses with an S grade, transfer credits, or credits earned while in Unclassified status cannot be used to satisfy this requirement. If a 3.00 is not attained, the provisional student shall be dismissed from the graduate program. Academic departments may set higher standards for students to fulfill provisional requirements; a student admitted with provisional status should contact the graduate coordinator for the program’s specific requirements. While in the provisional status, a student is not eligible to hold a graduate assistantship.
Academic Performance
Maintenance of an overall GPA of 3.00 or greater is expected for students enrolled in M.S. or Ph.D. programs in the department. The student is allowed only two Cs. Any third C or the first grade below C (a D or F) is grounds for dismissal.
Approved "Programs of Study" are provided below. Students should develop programs of study with their major professor and graduate committee as Graduate Coordinator consent. If substitutions are made for required courses, these must be documented on the program of study form.
Master of Science in Agricultural Life Sciences with Biochemistry Concentration - Thesis
| BCH 6603 | General Biochemistry I (prerequisite) | 3 |
| BCH 6613 | General Biochemistry II (prerequisite) | 3 |
| BCH 6414 | Protein Methods | 4 |
| BCH 6804 | Molecular Biology Methods 1 | 4 |
| BCH 8654 | Intermediary Metabolism 1 | 4 |
| BCH 8101 | Seminar 2 | 2 |
| Graduate-level coursework | 4 | |
| BCH 8000 | 6 | |
| Total Hours | 30 | |
- 1
Students completing the split-level BCH core courses at MSU at the 4000-level are exempt from these classes and other approved courses will be substituted in consultation with the major professor and the student’s graduate committee, and a final oral examination.
- 2
All students are required to present two seminars; the first usually in the second semester in residence (e.g., proposal topic) and one on the final research results.
At least 12 hours of coursework must be taken at the 8000 level.
Master of Science in Agricultural Life Sciences with Biochemistry Concentration - Non-Thesis
| BCH 6603 | General Biochemistry I (prerequisite) | 3 |
| BCH 6613 | General Biochemistry II (prerequisite) | 3 |
| BCH 6414 | Protein Methods | 4 |
| BCH 6804 | Molecular Biology Methods 1 | 4 |
| BCH 8654 | Intermediary Metabolism 1 | 4 |
| BCH 8101 | Seminar 2 | 2 |
| Graduate-level coursework | 10 | |
| BCH 7000 | Directed Individual Study in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology 3 | 3 |
| Total Hours | 33 | |
- 1
Students completing the split-level BCH core courses at MSU at the 4000-level are exempt from these classes and other approved courses will be substituted in consultation with the major professor and the student’s graduate committee, and a final oral examination.
- 2
All students are required to present two seminars; the first usually in the second semester in residence (e.g., proposal topic) and one on the final research project.
- 3
The research paper will be the equivalent of a research literature review and will be reviewed by the student’s committee.
At least 15 hours of coursework must be taken at the 8000 level.
Master of Science in Agricultural Life Sciences with Entomology or Plant Pathology Concentration - Thesis
| Coursework at 8000-level or higher | 12 | |
| Other graduate-level coursework | 10 | |
| EPP 8111 | Seminar | 1 |
| EPP 8121 | Seminar | 1 |
| EPP 8000 | 6 | |
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Master of Agriculture in Agriculture with Entomology Concentration - Non-Thesis
| Graduate Seminar | 2 | |
| Directed Individual Study | 6 | |
| Graduate-level coursework at the 8000 level or higher | 12 | |
| Other graduate-level coursework | 10 | |
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Students are required to complete 30 hours of coursework as approved by his/her graduate committee. Some Directed Individual Study courses, numbered at the 7000 level, may be approved to meet the 8000-level course requirement. Students will also have to complete a scholarly activity, participate in research projects, and develop a scholarly document focused on subject area.
Master of Agriculture in Agriculture with Plant Pathology Concentration - Non-Thesis
| Graduate Seminar | 2 | |
| Directed Individual Study | 6 | |
| Graduate-level coursework at the 8000 level or higher | 12 | |
| Other graduate-level coursework | 10 | |
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Students are required to complete 30 hours of coursework as approved by his/her graduate committee. Some Directed Individual Study courses, numbered at the 7000 level, may be approved to meet the 8000-level course requirement. Students will also have to complete a scholarly activity, participate in research projects, and develop a scholarly document focused on subject area.
Doctor of Philosophy in Life Sciences with Biochemistry Concentration
Baccalaureate Degree to Ph.D.
| BCH 6603 | General Biochemistry I (prerequisite) | 3 |
| BCH 6613 | General Biochemistry II (prerequisite) | 3 |
| Select one of the following: | 3-4 | |
| Protein Methods | ||
| Integrative Metabolic and Medical Biochemistry | ||
| Enzymes | ||
| BCH 8654 | Intermediary Metabolism 1 | 4 |
| or BCH 6804 | Molecular Biology Methods | |
| BCH 8101 | Seminar 2 | 2 |
| BCH 9000 | Research in Biochemistry,Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology | 20 |
| Enrichment courses 3 | 12 | |
| Additional graduate-level courses | 12-13 | |
| Total Hours | 60 | |
- 1
Or equivalent BCH or Life Science-related coursework; students completing the split-level BCH core courses at MSU at the 4000-level are exempt from these classes, and other approved courses will be substituted in consultation with the major professor and the student’s graduate committee.
- 2
The first formal seminar should be within the first 1.5 years the student is in residence. The final seminar will be a presentation of the final research results of the student.
- 3
It is recommended that the doctoral program include enrichment courses to be approved by the graduate committee. The enrichment program would consist of 12 course credits or equivalent special projects or directed individual study related to the specific interests and needs of the student.
This program requires a minimum of 40 credit hours of coursework and at least 20 research hours above the baccalaureate degree (60 hours total) for students entering with only a baccalaureate degree.
Doctor of Philosophy in Life Sciences with Biochemistry Concentration
Master of Science Degree to Ph.D.
| BCH 6603 | General Biochemistry I (prerequisite) | 3 |
| BCH 6613 | General Biochemistry II (prerequisite) | 3 |
| Select one of the following: | 3-4 | |
| Protein Methods | ||
| Integrative Metabolic and Medical Biochemistry | ||
| Enzymes | ||
| BCH 8654 | Intermediary Metabolism 1 | 4 |
| or BCH 6804 | Molecular Biology Methods | |
| BCH 8101 | Seminar 2 | 2 |
| BCH 9000 | Research in Biochemistry,Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology | 20 |
| Enrichment courses 3 | 12 | |
| Total Hours | 47 | |
- 1
Or equivalent BCH or Life Science-related coursework; students completing the split-level BCH core courses at MSU at the 4000-level are exempt from these classes, and other approved courses will be substituted in consultation with the major professor and the student’s graduate committee.
- 2
The first formal seminar should be within the first 1.5 years the student is in residence. The final seminar will be a presentation of the final research results of the student.
- 3
It is recommended that the doctoral program include enrichment courses to be approved by the graduate committee. The enrichment program would consist of 12 course credits or equivalent special projects or directed individual study related to the specific interests and needs of the student.
Students entering the program with an M.S. degree have a required minimum of 40 hours past that degree utilizing a combination of coursework and research hours (with a minimum of 20 hours of research/dissertation).
Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology
Baccalaureate Degree to Ph.D.
| BCH 6603 | General Biochemistry I (prerequisite) 1 | 3 |
| BCH 6613 | General Biochemistry II (prerequisite) 1 | 3 |
| Select one of the following: 2 | 3-4 | |
| Protein Methods | ||
| Molecular Biology | ||
| Molecular Genetics | ||
| BCH 8654 | Intermediary Metabolism 2 | 4 |
| BCH 8101 | Seminar 3 | 2 |
| BCH 9000 | Research in Biochemistry,Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology | 30 |
| Enrichment Courses 4 | 12 | |
| Total Hours | 57-58 | |
- 1
Or equivalent.
- 2
Or equivalent BCH or Life Science-related coursework; students completing the split-level BCH core courses at MSU at the 4000-level are exempt from these classes, and other approved courses would be substituted in consultation with the major professor and the student’s graduate committee.
- 3
The first formal seminar should be within the first 1.5 years the student is in residence. The final seminar will be a presentation of the final research results of the student.
- 4
It is recommended that the doctoral program include enrichment courses to be approved by the graduate committee. The enrichment program would consist of 12 course credits or equivalent special projects or directed individual study related to the specific interests and needs of the student. Such enrichment courses or technical proficiencies could include (but are not limited to) statistics, biocomputing, electron microscopy, plant transformation, tissue culture, production of monoclonal antibodies, etc.
The Molecular Biology Ph.D. degree is primarily a research degree. However, a minimum of 30-40 hours of coursework and 30 hours of research beyond the B.S. degree are required. A student entering the program with a master’s degree will be required to take 30-40 hours past that degree. The courses shall come from the offerings of the department and from supporting programs. If the student desires a specific minor, 12 hours should be in that field. The selection of courses is left to the student in consultation with the major professor and graduate committee.
The student’s Ph.D. graduate committee will consist of a total of at least five members with at least three of these members from the department faculty. The student will submit a research proposal to the committee. No time limit is imposed, but it is suggested that the proposal be submitted within the first 1.5 years. The student will have yearly reviews with the graduate committee. The student is expected to produce publishable research.
The student must pass written and oral preliminary examinations dealing with his/her program of study. A student not passing the preliminary exams on a second attempt will be given the option of completing the research required for an M.S. (provided the coursework is also adequate). The student must pass a final oral defense of the dissertation upon completion of the research program.
Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology
Master of Science Degree to Ph.D.
A student entering the program with a master’s degree will be required to take 30-40 hours past that degree. The courses shall come from the offerings of the department and from supporting programs. If the student desires a specific minor, 12 hours should be in that field. The selection of courses is left to the student in consultation with the major professor and graduate committee.
The student must pass written and oral preliminary examinations dealing with his/her program of study. A student not passing the preliminary exams on a second attempt will be given the option of completing the research required for an M.S. (provided the coursework is also adequate). The student must pass a final oral defense of the dissertation upon completion of the research program.
Doctor of Philosophy in Life Sciences with Entomology Concentration
| EPP 8111 | Seminar | 1 |
| EPP 8121 | Seminar | 1 |
| Enrichment courses 1 | 12 | |
| Additional graduate-level coursework | 46 | |
| Total Hours | 60 | |
- 1
It is recommended that the doctoral program include enrichment courses to be approved by the graduate committee. The enrichment program would consist of 12 course credits or equivalent special projects or study areas related to the specific interests and needs of the student.
This program requires 60 credit hours of coursework above the baccalaureate degree.
The student’s Ph.D. graduate committee will consist of a total of at least five members with at least three of these members from the department faculty. The student will submit a research proposal to the committee.
The student must pass written and oral preliminary examinations dealing with his/her program of study. A student not passing the preliminary exams on a second attempt will be given the option of completing the research required for an M.S. (provided the coursework is also adequate). The student must pass a final oral defense of the dissertation upon completion of the research program.
Doctor of Philosophy in Life Sciences with Plant Pathology Concentration
| EPP 8111 | Seminar | 1 |
| EPP 8121 | Seminar | 1 |
| Enrichment courses 1 | 12 | |
| Additional graduate-level coursework | 46 | |
| Total Hours | 60 | |
- 1
It is recommended that the doctoral program include enrichment courses to be approved by the graduate committee. The enrichment program would consist of 12 course credits or equivalent special projects or study areas related to the specific interests and needs of the student.
This program requires 60 credit hours of coursework above the baccalaureate degree.
The student’s Ph.D. graduate committee will consist of a total of at least five members with at least three of these members from the department faculty. The student will submit a research proposal to the committee.
The student must pass written and oral preliminary examinations dealing with his/her program of study. A student not passing the preliminary exams on a second attempt will be given the option of completing the research required for an M.S. (provided the coursework is also adequate). The student must pass a final oral defense of the dissertation upon completion of the research program.
BCH 6013 Principles of Biochemistry: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: CH 2503, BIO 1134 or equivalent.) Three hours lecture. A survey of biochemistry designed to provide the non-major with a comprehensive background in the field. (Credit will not be given to students matriculating in the Biochemistry or Molecular Biology degree programs.)
BCH 6113 Essentials of Molecular Genetics: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. A survey of molecular biology and genetics designed to provide the non-major with a comprehensive background in the field. (Credit will not be given to students matriculating in the Biochemistry or Molecular Biology degree program)
BCH 6243 Plant Molecular Biology: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Course provides an overview of processes of DNA replication, RNA transcription, protein translation, and cell function. The molecular basis of biological activity between biomolecules (DNA, RNA, and proteins). Their interactions, biosynthesis, and the regulation of these interactions in the various systems of a plant cell
BCH 6253 Macronutrients: Human Metabolism: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: FNH Majors: Grade of “C” or better or concurrent enrollment in BCH 4013 and Junior or Senior Standing; or BCH Major). Three hours face-to-face lecture or web-based distance instruction. In-depth study of the chemistry and functionality of macronutrients in food systems and their biochemical impact on the human body. (Same as FNH 4253/6253)
BCH 6333 Advanced Forensic Science: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite:BCH 4013/6013 or BCH 4603/6603 and BCH 4613/6613; or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. An advanced study of the central concepts in forensic science as they relate to physiology, biochemistry and statistics
BCH 6414 Protein Methods: 4 hours.
(Prerequisite: Coregistration in BCH 4603/6603). Two hours lecture. Four hours laboratory. A comprehensive course to teach the student the modern methods of protein biochemistry
BCH 6443 Introduction to Public Health: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite BIO 1134, BIO 1144 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Introduction to the field of Public Health. Includes an overview of historic and existing health problems and disparities unique to the United States and Southeast and an overview of related epidemiological methods
BCH 6503 Scientific Communication Skills: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EN 1113 and MA 1713 and CH 4513 or consent of instructor, or Graduate standing). Three hours lecture. Introduction to developing information literature and survey of data manipulation and presentation skills
BCH 6603 General Biochemistry I: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: CH 4564, CH 4523/6523 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. BCH 4603/6603 must be completed before student may enroll in BCH 4613/6613. Detailed studies of the structure and metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes, and coenzymes
BCH 6613 General Biochemistry II: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: CH 4564, CH 4523/6523 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. BCH 4603/6603 must be completed before student may enroll in BCH 4613/6613. Detailed studies of the structure and metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes, and coenzymes
BCH 6623 Integrative Metabolic and Medical Biochemistry: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Coregistration in BCH 4613/6613). A continuation of BCH 4613/6613 to include an integrative approach to study metabolic biochemistry in the context of medical biochemistry
BCH 6713 Molecular Biology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite for BCH 4713: Co-registration in BCH 4613). Three hours lecture. A study of basic molecular processes such as DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Offered fall semester
BCH 6803 Integrative Protein Evolution: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite BCH 4613/6613 Biochemistry II). This course focuses on providing students with an integrative view of molecular evolution, demonstrating how genomic mutations cause biochemical changes which are then reflected at the organismal level, using hemoglobin as our model system
BCH 6804 Molecular Biology Methods: 4 hours.
(Prerequisite:Coregistration in BCH 4613/6613). Two hours lecture. Four hours laboratory. A comprehensive course to teach the student the modern methods of molecular biology. (Same as GNS 4804/6804),
BCH 6903 Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. A comprehensive course on biochemical and molecular processes specific for plant cells. The course includes ample information on the molecular components and pathways required for plant response to pathogens and tolerance to environmental factors
BCH 6990 Special Topics in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
BCH 7000 Directed Individual Study in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology: 1-6 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged
BCH 8101 Seminar: 1 hour.
Review of current literature; individual presentation of research or classical topics. Course can be taken twice for credit
BCH 8243 Molecular Biology of Plants: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Coregistration in BCH 4613/6613). Three hours lecture. A study of plant development at the molecular level. Emphasis will be placed on the influence of nucleic acid metabolism on plant development
BCH 8631 Topics in Genomics: 1 hour.
(Prerequisites:PSS/BCH 8653 or BCH 4713/6713 or BCH 8643 ). Review and discussion of classic and current genomics literature;individual presentation of a seminar highlighting an area of genomics research. (Same as PSS 8631)
BCH 8633 Enzymes: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: BCH 4613/6613). Three hours lecture. A study of enzymes; their purification, classification, kinetics and mechanisms
BCH 8643 Molecular Genetics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PO 3103, or BIO 3103, and Coregistration in BCH 5613/7613). Three hours lecture. Study of the gene and its expression with emphasis on structure and function in higher organisms. (Same as GNS 8643)
BCH 8653 Genomes and Genomics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites:BCH 4113/6113 or BCH 4713/6713 or BCH 8643 or consent of instructor). Overview of genome structure and evolution with emphasis on genomics, the use of molecular biology, robotics, and advanced computational methods to efficiently study genomes. (Same as PSS 8653)
BCH 8654 Intermediary Metabolism: 4 hours.
(Prerequisite: BCH 4613/6613). Four hours lecture. An advanced in-depth study of anabolic and catabolic pathways involved in cellular metabolism. Bioenergetics and control mechanisms will be emphasized
BCH 8663 Proteome and Proteomics: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. This course introduces proteome (the entire complement of proteins in cells) and proteomics which is the large-scale study of proteomes, directed to analyzing protein function in a cellular context. It is designed to cover the fundamental concepts of proteomics and its applications to biomedical research
BCH 8673 Host-Microbe Interaction Mechanisms: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Graduate standing or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Comprehensive overview of molecular interactions between microbes and their hosts and vectors leading to disease, colonization, symbiosis, vector transmission, immune responses, and other outcomes. Mammalian, plant, and insect systems will be covered. (Same as EPP 8673)
BCH 8990 Special Topics in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
BCH 9000 Research in Biochemistry,Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology: 1-13 hours.
Hours and credit to be arranged
EPP 6113 Principles of Plant Pathology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: BIO 1134 and Bio 1144 or consent of instructor). Two hours lecture. Three hours laboratory. Acquiring a general knowledge of the principles of plant pathology through a study of selected plant diseases of economic importance for Mississippi
EPP 6143 Insect Ecology: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Interaction of insects with their environment, including behavioral ecology, abiotic influences, population dynamics, species interactions, and effects of insects on ecosystem structure and function
EPP 6152 Advanced Fungal Taxonomy-Fungi Imperfecti: 2 hours.
(Prerequisite:Consent of Instructor). One hour lecture. Two hours laboratory. Methods and practice in identification of taxon-fungi imperfecti in different ecosystems. Includes conventional macroscopic and microscopic techniques for identification compared with molecular methods
EPP 6154 General Entomology: 4 hours.
Two hours lecture. Four hours laboratory. General Entomology is designed to introduce the biology and diversity of insects. Lectures cover most of basic biological phenomena of insects including morphology, physiology, development, ecology, and interactions with human activities. Lab activities include insect collection, classification, and hands-on experiments
EPP 6162 Advanced Fungal Taxonomy-Ascomycetes: 2 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor).One hour lecture. Two hours laboratory.Methods and practice in identification of taxon-ascomycetes in different ecosystems. Includes conventional macroscopic and microscopic techniques for identification compared with molecular methods
EPP 6163 Plant Disease Management: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 4113/6113 or consent of instructor). Two hours lecture. Three hours laboratory. Techniques and fundamentals of plant disease management. Disease dynamics related to management, avoidance, exclusion, eradication of pathogens; principles of plant protection, spraying techniques; biological control. Spring semester
EPP 6164 Insect Taxonomy: 4 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 4154). Two hours lecture. Six hours laboratory. Spring semester. Advanced study of insect classification
EPP 6172 Advanced Fungal Taxonomy-Fleshy Basidiomycetes: 2 hours.
(Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor). One hour lecture. Two hours laboratory. Methods and practice in identification of taxon-basidiomycetes in different ecosystems.Includes conventional mascroscopic and microscopic techniques for identification compared with molecular methods
EPP 6173 Medical and Veterinary Entomology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite:EPP 4154 or consent of instructor). Two hours lecture. Two hour laboratory. Exxentials of the biology, disease relationships, surveillance, and control of arthropods parastitic on humans and animals in the context of clincal and preventive medicine
EPP 6182 Advanced Fungal Taxonomy-Oomycetes and Zygomycetes: 2 hours.
(Prerequisites: Consent of Instructor ). One hour lecture. Two hour laboratory. Methods and practice in identification of taxon-oomycetes and zygomycetes in different ecosystems. Includes conventional macroscopic and microscopic techniques for identification compared with molecular methods
EPP 6214 Diseases of Crops: 4 hours.
(Prerequisites: EPP 3113 or 3124). Three hours lecture. Two hours laboratory. Fundamentals and practical aspects of identification and control of selected diseases of crop plants grown in the southern U.S. Spring semester
EPP 6234 Field Crop Insects: 4 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 2213 or 4154). Three hours lecture. Two hours laboratory. Fall semester. Recognition, biology, distribution, damage, economic importance and methods of control of insect pests of agronomic and horticultural crops
EPP 6244 Aquatic Entomology: 4 hours.
(Prerequisites: EPP 4154 or instructors approval). Three hours lecture. Two hours laboratory. Study of basic biological and ecological principles important to aquatic insects and related arthropods, including life histories, evolutionary adaptations, community and species and identification
EPP 6254 Introduction to Mycology: 4 hours.
(Prerequisite: BIO 1134 or consent of instructor). Two hours lecture. Four hours laboratory. Subjects include fungal structures, function and physiology, reproduction, genetics, emphasis in taxonomy and influence of reproductive stages of Ascomycetes, Basidiomycetes on plant and forest ecosystems
EPP 6263 Principles of Insect Pest Management: 3 hours.
Two hours lecture. Two hours laboratory. Discussion of pest management concepts, insect control methods, sampling, and pest management systems. Laboratory involves sampling, calibration, and other exercises related to pest management
EPP 6264 Advanced Mycology: 4 hours.
(Prerequisite: BIO 1134 or consent of instructor). Two hours lecture. Four hours laboratory. Subjects include fungal structures, function and physiology, reproduction, genetics, and taxonomy of Oomycota, Chytridiomycota, and Zygomycota (Glomeromycota) and other phyla on plant and forest ecosystems
EPP 6273 Honey Bee Biology and Beekeeping: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. In this introduction to the fascinating honey bee and its biology, students will learn the biology of the honey bee, the social structure and behaviors of a colony, the basics of beekeeping, pollination, and about products of the hive
EPP 6313 Forensic Entomology: 3 hours.
Two hours lecture. Two hours laboratory. Introduction to the identification and ecology of insects and other arthropods associated with corpses/carrion and related materials in the context of forensic science
EPP 6333 Principles of Insect Anatomy and Physiology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 4154). Three hours lecture. Spring semester. Introduction to the basic principles of structure and function of insect organ systems from a comparative and evolutionary viewpoint
EPP 6443 Native Bees and Pollination Ecology: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. In this course, students will learn the biology of the different native bee species, the different social structures in bee pollinators, pollination ecology of different bee species, and the various threats that are affecting native bees and managed bees
EPP 6523 Turfgrass Diseases: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 3113 or 3124) Two hours lecture Three hours laboratory. Study of the life cycle, damage, economic importance and control startegies of turfgrass diseases
EPP 6543 Toxicology and Insecticide Chemistry: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Principles of Biochemistry (BCH 4013), or General Biochemistry I (BCH 4603), or permission from instructor). Three hours lecture. Principles of toxicology, history of insecticide use, mode of action for of major insecticide classes, metabolism of insecticides, development of pest resistance, and environmental fate of insecticides
EPP 6613 Forensic Entomology: 3 hours.
Two hours lecture. Two hours Laboratory. Introduction to the identification and ecology of insects and other arthropods associated with corpses/carrion and related materials in the context of forensic science
EPP 6863 Insects and Global Change: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: introductory course in biology or ecology recommended). Three hours lecture. Insects and other arthropods (e.g., ticks, spiders) have extremely influential roles in our society. This course will cover how the era of rapid global change, including shifts in climate, international trade, and land use, impacts arthropods
EPP 6990 Special Topics in Entomology and Plant Pathology: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
EPP 7000 Directed Individual Study in Entomology and Plant Pathology: 1-6 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged
EPP 8111 Seminar: 1 hour.
Consideration of recent advances and problems in Entomology and Plant Pathology; student participation, general discussion
EPP 8113 Plant Nematology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 3113). Two hours lecture. Three hours laboratory. Basic morphology, taxonomy, and nomenclature; discussion of plant pathogenic general, symptomatology, methods of isolation, control methods, and interrelationship of nematodes to other plant pathogens. Fall semester, even years
EPP 8121 Seminar: 1 hour.
Consideration of recent advances and problems in Entomology and Plant Pathology; student participation, general discussion
EPP 8123 Plant Virology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 4133/6133 or equivalent). Two hours lecture. Three hours laboratory. Morphology and structure of infectious entity; characteristics of plant virus groups including symptomatology, transmission, vectors, etc. Methods of assay and purification. Spring semester, even years
EPP 8133 Plant Bacteriology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite:EPP 4113,EPP 6133 or consent of instructor). Two hours lecture. Three hours Laboratory. Morphology, biology and taxonomy of plant-associated bacteria and physio-biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved in their interactions with plants; development and management of plant bacterial diseases
EPP 8143 Advanced Plant Pathology I: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 3113). Three hours lecture. The dynamic nature of disease. Genetics and variability of the major groups of plant pathogens. Epidemiology. Genetics of the host-parasitic interaction. Fall semesters
EPP 8144 Transmission Electro Microscopy: 4 hours.
(Prerequisite:Consent of Instructor). One hour lecture. Six hours laboratory. Introduction to TEM including life sciences (tissue) and engineering (crystalline materials) topics. (Same as ME 8144)
EPP 8173 Clinical and Applied Mycology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: EPP 4254/6254 or consent of instructor). One hour lecture and four hours laboratory. This course prepares students to identify fungal causal agents associated with agricultural problems, including food science, agronomy, veterinary science, horticulture, forestry, and plant pathology. (Same as FNH 8173)
EPP 8223 Scanning Electron Microscopy: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Graduate Student, consent of instructor). Two hours lecture. Three hours laboratory . Fall semester. Introduction to scanning electron microscopy and associated techniques
EPP 8253 Advanced Plant Pathology II: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: EPP 4113/6113, BIO 4214/6214, or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Infection processes, weapons utilized by pathogens in attack, and resultant alterations in ultrastructure, function and metabolism
EPP 8263 Insect Rearing: Principles and Procedures: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 2213, EPP 4154, or instructor permission.) Two hours lecture. Two hours laboratory. Principles and procedures for hearing high quality insects including safety, genetics environments, diets, diet contamination, disease, and quality control
EPP 8273 Empirical Research in Theory and Practice: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Introduction to the nature, process, and societal role of research; scientific method, experimental design, proposal writing, publishing, and ethics. Course emphasizes the intuitive understanding and practical application of quantitative analyses, including written, visual, and oral presentation of methods and results
EPP 8333 Advanced Toxicology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 4543. Three hours lecture. Fall semester. Physiological and biochemical actions of pesticides and therapeutic drugs. Pesticide metabolism and resistance. Insecticide synergism. Natural toxins and venoms. (Same as PHY 8333)
EPP 8343 Advances in Insect Anatomy-Structure and Function: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: General entomology (EPP 4154/6154) and/ or Insect taxonomy (EPP 4164/6164) or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture for upper-level graduate students with basic background in entomology. Advances in knowledge of insect anatomy, functional morphology and terminology associated with it. Evolutionary aspects of insect form and function
EPP 8353 Advances in Insect Physiology and Biochemistry: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: General entomology (EPP 4154/6154) and/ or Insect taxonomy (EPP 4164/6164) or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture for upper-level graduate students with basic background in entomology and biochemistry. This advanced course will examine the major biochemical and molecular bases of the processes and functions of insect systems
EPP 8363 Insect Biotechnology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 4154/6154, or instructor permission.) Three hours lecture. This course is aimed at graduate students in Entomology program who have been less exposed to but want to learn molecular techniques in insect science. Emphasis will go on current biotechnology tools used in entomological research and pest management
EPP 8364 Non-Thesis Masters Project in Entomology: 4 hours.
Four Hours Directed Independent Study. This non-thesis project is open to students who have enrolled in the online Non-Thesis Master’s program in Applied Entomology. Directed Independent Study will be conducted in the field of Entomology or Entomology-related work
EPP 8373 Advanced Insecticide Toxicology: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: EPP 4543/6543). Three hours lecture. New insecticide synthesis based on natural products chemistry, insecticide resistance management (IRM), the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC), Mode of Action classification system, quantitative structure activity relationships (QSAR) coupled with artificial intelligence (AI), and computer-aided modeling and design (CAMD)
EPP 8423 Insects, Society, and Human Affairs: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. Explores interactions of insects and humans throughout history with an emphasis on insect pests of agricultural crop production, human and veterinary health, and roles as nuisances. Positive roles as decomposers, pollinators, sources of food, and inspirations for art, music, architecture are emphasized too
EPP 8443 Using Machine Learning Techniques in the Life Sciences: 3 hours.
Three hours lecture. An introduction to the use of machine learning/artificial intelligence for predictive modeling in the life sciences. We will cover special techniques for ML as well as many algorithms including random forests, boosted trees, SVMs and deep neural networks. The course will be taught using R
EPP 8483 Ecological Genetics: 3 hours.
(Prerequisites: PO 3103 or equivalent and BIO 4113/6113 or consent of instructor). Three hours lecture. Spring semester, odd-numbered years. Introduction to the application of genetic methods and theory to the study of adaptation in natural populations. (Same as GNS 8483)
EPP 8673 Host-Microbe Interaction Mechanisms: 3 hours.
(Prerequisite: Graduate standing or permission of instructor). Three hours lecture. Comprehensive overview of molecular interactions between microbes and their hosts and vectors leading to disease, colonization, symbiosis, vector transmission, immune responses, and other outcomes. Mammalian, plant, and insect systems will be covered. (Same as BCH 8673)
EPP 8881 Entomology and Plant Pathology Colloquium: 1 hour.
One Hour Seminar. Informal literature-based discussion of Entomology and Plant Pathology topics. One-hour synchronous discussion per week. Students may repeat the class up to three times for credit (no more than 1 credit concurrently). Contact the instructor of record to learn the course theme for each iteration
EPP 8990 Special Topics in Entomology and Plant Pathology: 1-9 hours.
Credit and title to be arranged. This course is to be used on a limited basis to offer developing subject matter areas not covered in existing courses. (Courses limited to two offerings under one title within two academic years)
EPP 9000 Research in Entomology and Plant Pathology: 1-13 hours.
Hours and credits to be arranged