College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Plant and Environmental Science (Ph.D.)
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Plant and Environmental Science (Ph.D.)
Research. Restore. Revolutionize — Earn a Ph.D. in Plant & Environmental Sciences
The Ph.D. in Plant and Environmental Sciences at NMSU prepares you for scholarly leadership and high-impact research across agronomy, horticulture, environmental science, and soil science. With rigorous requirements including advanced coursework, qualifying exams, comprehensive exam, a dissertation and defense, you'll engage deeply in original research that spans plant stress responses, soil–plant–water relations, desert ecology, ecosystem services, and more. This program equips you to shape knowledge, lead innovation, and publish work that influences science and policy.
Admission Deadlines
Fall admission: March 1. Spring admission: October 15
- Total course hours: 60
- Total dissertation credits: 18
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Ph.D. program are poised for leadership across research, academia, policy, and industry. Possible career paths include:
- University professor or academic researcher
- Senior scientist in plant/environmental research
- Soil and ecosystem services consultant
- Director of environmental programs or natural resource agencies
- International development specialist in agriculture or ecosystems
- Corporate research leader in sustainable farming or biotechnology
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Plant and Environmental Science? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D., in Plant and Environmental Science at NMSU?
Selecting NMSU’s Ph.D. in Plant and Environmental Sciences means you’re committing to a program that emphasizes both innovation and application. With access to expert faculty, interdisciplinary research opportunities in topics like sustainable crop production, molecular biology, soil health, water use efficiency and ecosystem services, and real-world field and lab facilities, you’ll develop the skills to lead in science, policy and management. This program positions you to produce publishable research and to influence the future of agriculture and the environment globally.
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 Plant and Environmental Science requires a minimum of 30 completed degree hours beyond the Master's degree, or 60 degree hours beyond the Bachelor's degree, and a minimum GPA of 3.00 in all course work.
Take classes like:
- ANSC 484 - Ruminant Nutrition
- ANSC 580 - Environmental Physiology of Domestic Animals
- ANSC 560- Rumen Microbiology
- ANSC 606- Endocrinology of Pregnancy, Parturition, and Lactation
- ANSC 509 - Endocrinology of Domestic Animals
- ANSC 604 - Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal-Pineal Endocrinology
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.