Background Image Alternative Text: Looking at a diseased plant with a magnifying glass.

Plant Pathology

Plant Pathology

Plants are important to everything we enjoy about life. They feed us, oxygenate us, heal us, shade us and clothe us. Everyone needs plants. But sometimes even plants need a doctor. Plant pathologists study the diseases and disorders of plants including fungus, virus, and bacteria. This concentration is perfect for someone with a green thumb and an investigative spirit.

Occupational Outlook Handbook: Plant pathologists are categorized as soil and plant scientists by the U.S. Department of Labor. Plant pathologists need a bachelor's degree for entry-level positions. Soil and plant scientists could expect a 7% job growth rate from 2019 to 2029. The median annual wage for plant pathologists was $66,120 in May 2020.

Curriculum

Transfer Guide

Students may transfer to Mississippi State University from regionally accredited community, junior or senior colleges for any period of enrollment, provided they have earned a 2.0 GPA (as computed by Mississippi State University) on all college courses attempted as well as earned a 2.0 GPA on the 30-hours of core courses. Transfer students should look at the transfer course equivalent guide to determine which courses will transfer.

Internships

Internships and/or professional experience prepares students for future careers in Food Science. A significant percentage of employers prefer students with work experience outside of a college environment to students with no experience, according to new data released by the Chronicle of Higher Education. Students should check with the MSU Career Center or the program coordinator for internship opportunities.

Scholarships

Students may apply for university, college and departmental scholarships through one application. You can find the scholarship application once you login to myState. Under the banner tab, select Financial Aid and Scholarships. The application is listed as Submit/Revise General Scholarship Application.

Organizations

The Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition and Health Promotion encourages its students to take advantage of the many experiences offered by the departmental student organizations and teams. Clubs are a great way to develop leadership skills and to learn about the various food industries. Learn more about organizations in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.