Masters of Agriculture - Cal Poly Pomona
The Plant Science Subplan in the Master of Science in Agriculture allows students to develop 
knowledge and competence in a specialized area of agricultural biology, agronomy, horticulture or soil science through individualized study and research. The program is designed to build upon a strong background in the physical, natural and agricultural sciences. Graduate students may concentrate on enhancing their skills in research methodology and design and statistical analysis, or they may choose to apply their specialized study in an education, management and/or public policy. The Subplan in Plant Science allows students to pursue the degree under two different tracks.
The Research Track will provide students with the opportunity to gain expertise in biological research methodologies as applied to plant, soil and entomological problems. This degree will prepare students for technical and research positions within the industry and/or with the sound scientific grounding necessary for continuing on to a Ph.D. program. The Professional Track provides an opportunity for students who wish to combine graduate courses in the plant, soil and entomological sciences with interdisciplinary preparation in design, business management, communications, public policy or the social sciences. These students normally do not plan to continue on in a research-based Ph.D. program, and would seek employment in the public sector in education, management, or other non-research industry positions.
Students on both the Research Track and the Professional Track will complete a master's thesis.
Faculty Sponsor is required for admission.
GRE is required: We do not have a minimum score (higher is better)
GPA: 3.0 for unconditional admission.
TOEFL: 600/250/100 would be considered a good score.
A statement of your research interests, career goals and motivation for pursuing an advanced degree is required.
When reaching a decision on admittance, we consider the total combination of transcripts, GRE, GPA, TOEFL, statement of interest and the ability to find a faculty sponsor.
Conditional admission is possible with the stipulation the prospective student maintains at least a 3.0 during each quarter of the first year.
A total of 45 units are required for a Master’s degree. Consult the current catalog for the appropriate courses.
In addition to the minimum requirements for admission, a research thesis is required. All students will conduct independent research as partial fulfillment for the Master’s degree. Some faculty will require a peer-reviewed manuscript as partial fulfillment for the Master’s degree.
In addition to the minimum requirements for admission, a comprehensive examination will be required upon completion of coursework.
