College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Applied and Agricultural Biology (Ph.D.)
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Applied and Agricultural Biology (Ph.D.)
Transform Agriculture. Drive Biological Innovation — Earn Your Ph.D. in Applied and Agricultural Biology
The Ph.D. in Applied and Agricultural Biology at NMSU prepares the next generation of leaders in agriculture, biology, and ecosystem science. Designed for students with either a bachelor’s or master’s degree, this doctoral program combines rigorous coursework and original dissertation research, immersing you in advanced study of organisms, ecosystems, soils, pests, and sustainable production systems. With a required minimum of 48–60 credits depending on your entry level (30 credits of coursework plus 18 credits of dissertation for MS holders), students are trained to conduct meaningful, hypothesis-driven research that addresses real-world biological and agricultural challenges.
Admission Deadlines
Fall admission: December 15, spring admission: September 1
- Total course hours: 60
- Total dissertation credits: 18
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Applied and Agricultural Biology are equipped to assume leadership positions in science, education, industry, and policy. Possible career trajectories include:
- University professor or principal investigator in agricultural biology or ecology
- Senior research scientist in plant pathology, entomology, or pest management firms
- Director of sustainable agriculture or ecosystem services programs
- Consultant or policy advisor for government agencies on biotic stress, invasive species, or agro-ecosystem health
- Biotechnology strategist or executive in agritech or environmental firms
- Program leader in restoration ecology, conservation biology, or integrated pest-management systems
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Applied and Agricultural Biology? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D., in Applied and Agricultural Biology at NMSU?
Selecting NMSU’s Ph.D. in Applied and Agricultural Biology means joining a department committed to applied research, interdisciplinary training, and real-world impact. With early lab and field immersion, support for publication and presentation, and mentorship by faculty working at the interface of biology and agriculture, you’ll be prepared for high-level careers where innovation and stewardship converge. The program structure — with qualifying, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation defense — ensures you’ll graduate as a confident researcher and leader capable of addressing global biological and agricultural challenges.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
NMSU's Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Applied and Agricultural Biology requires at least 30 credits,18 dissertation credits, and pass a Qualifying Exam, a Comprehensive Exam, and Final Dissertation defense. Students without a M.S. degree may be required to complete additional coursework.
Take classes like:
- EPWS 525 - Advanced Scientific Writing
- BIOL 540 - Science and Ethics
- EPWS 660 - Ecology and Management of Invasive Plant Species
- EPWS 675 - Urban Entomology
- A ST 540 - Predictive Analytics
- BIOL 527 – Symbiosis
GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for admission.
Application: The application includes transcripts, resume, and letter of interest.
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.