College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Horticulture (M.S.)
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Horticulture (M.S.)
Cultivate Innovation and Sustainability: Earn a Master of Science in Horticulture at NMSU
Grow your expertise in plant science and horticultural innovation with the M.S. in Horticulture at New Mexico State University. This advanced program prepares students for leadership roles in research, production, and sustainable practices across the horticulture industry. Through a combination of rigorous coursework and hands-on experience, you’ll explore topics such as crop physiology, plant breeding, soil science, and water management — critical areas for addressing global food and environmental challenges.
Admission Deadlines
November 1 for the spring semester; February 15 for the summer semester; March 1 for the fall semester
- Total credits: 30
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Here are several job titles that graduates with a Master of Science in Horticulture can pursue:
- Horticultural scientist
- Crop production specialist
- Extension specialist
- Agricultural research scientist
- Plant pathologist
- Soil and water management specialist
- Food crop development specialist
- University instructor or lecturer
- Agribusiness manager
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Master of Science in Horticulture? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a M.S. in Horticulture at NMSU?
As a master’s student in Horticulture at NMSU, you’ll engage in advanced coursework, applied research and practical training. Expect to work closely with expert faculty on projects in plant physiology, crop production, soil and water management, and sustainable horticultural practices. You’ll gain hands-on experience in greenhouses, experimental farms, and cutting-edge laboratories, while developing skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and innovative solutions for global agricultural challenges. Opportunities to publish research, present at conferences, and collaborate with industry partners prepare you for leadership roles in academia, government, and private sectors.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
This degree emphasizes the creative use of plants by humans and studies the technical advancements in the husbandry of economic commodity groups of fruits, vegetables, or ornamentals, and turfgrass management.
Emphasis may be in breeding and genetics of chile or onions, plant growth and development, nutrition, plant stress response, fruit and vegetable physiology, forestry, and turfgrass. Students will be prepared for successful employment in diverse horticulture private industries, educational institutions, and government agencies.
The Master of Science degree can be obtained through either a thesis option (recommended) or a non-thesis option. Prerequisite to major graduate work is completion of a curriculum essentially equivalent to that required by the department for the BS degree at New Mexico State University. Qualifications for admission will be reviewed by the departmental graduate faculty.
Selection of courses should be based on consultation with the student's graduate committee; 23-25 credits should be numbered 450 or above, including at least 15 credits at the 500-level or above.
Take classes like:
- AGRO/HORT/SOIL 590 Graduate Seminar (taken final semester)
- AGRO/HORT/ENVS 599 Master's Thesis (taken during final year)
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.