PhD in Agricultural Sciences in Agricultural and Extension Education

Mississippi State University (MSU) stands as a prominent and esteemed public research institution located in Starkville, Mississippi. Founded in 1878, MSU has a rich tradition of academic excellence and community engagement. Offering a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields such as agriculture, engineering, business, and arts and sciences, MSU provides students with a well-rounded educational experience in a vibrant campus setting. At Mississippi State University, research and innovation are central to its mission. The university is known for its cutting-edge research in areas such as aerospace, agriculture, and veterinary medicine. With a commitment to fostering leadership and service, MSU equips students with practical skills, hands-on experiences, and a strong sense of social responsibility. The campus's welcoming and collaborative atmosphere, along with its emphasis on experiential learning, prepares graduates to excel in their chosen careers and contribute positively to society.

The minimum requirement for the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree is the completion of 90 semester hours of graduate credit on an approved program of study above the bachelor’s degree. Required courses for the Ph.D. include 30–36 hours of graduate credit in Agricultural and Extension Education; 16 graduate credits in statistics, research, and evaluation; 12–18 graduate credits in a minor or supporting area, 0–12 graduate elective credits; and 20 credit hours of dissertation research. Students must pass a written and an oral comprehensive examination in both the major and minor/supporting area. To be eligible for the preliminary/comprehensive examination, a graduate student must have a 3.00 GPA on all graduate courses taken after admission to the degree program. Students must also pass the final dissertation examination. The student’s graduate committee supervises the dissertation and examinations.