September - University of Nebraska

The goal of the DPH program is to provide an advanced degree for students interested in the broad
application of knowledge to problem solving in applied plant biology in industry, academe and various levels
of government. Emphasis is on integrating knowledge of pests and pathogens with agronomic and
horticultural plants, particularly those associated with the Great Plains. Knowledge and practical experience
obtained from this program will enable integration of the plant health disciplines for broad applicability to
problem solving in plant health. This is a professional doctorate for practitioners and leaders in plant health
as an alternative to a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). If a student wishes to move to a Master of Science or
Ph.D. program, or obtain a dual degree, then requirements for a particular program would need to be met.
Structure and Operation. A director advised by a Graduate Steering Committee will govern the program.
Dr. Anne Vidaver will serve as interim director of the program. The steering committee will consist of
faculty members from the Departments of Agronomy and Horticulture (Dr. John Lindquist, Dr. Martha
Mamo), Entomology (Dr. Stephen Danielson, Dr. Lance Meinke), and Plant Pathology (Dr. Anne Vidaver,
Dr. James Partridge, Dr. Gary Yuen), as well as a non-voting representative from industry (Dr. Earle Raun).
The director will serve as the primary contact for all incoming students. The director, in consultation with
the Graduate Steering Committee, will then assign students to the appropriate faculty members for advising.
The program will receive annual guidance from an advisory committee populated by industry and
governmental agency representatives.
2. Program of Study
Students in this program of study will obtain and explore knowledge of plants in association with microbes,
arthropods and environmental conditions, and the impact of those interactions in affecting food, feed, energy
stocks, and natural and manmade landscapes. A major program objective is that management choices be
economically and environmentally sound. The specific objective for those matriculating through this
program is to produce professionals with the abilities to:
a. accurately identify specific pest and disease agents;
b. diagnose plant abnormalities due to pathogens, pests or the environment;
c. develop analytical and diagnostic skills affecting growth and use of plants;
d. provide knowledgeable management recommendations;
e. evaluate research tools and appropriate informational sources;
f. understand global forces affecting plant health;
g. evaluate the significance and impact of invasive species and associated risk management;
h. become cognizant of emerging pests and diseases threatening the state and region;
i. understand the impact of scientific developments on plant health;
j. understand major legislation affecting plant health;
k. possess basic business management skills associated with recommendations regarding plant health,
including the growth, shipment, import and export and affecting growth and use of plants; and
l. effectively communicate through oral, written and electronic means with the public, government and
clientele.
Students admitted to the Doctor of Plant Health Program will be required to complete concentrations in the
following areas: pest and pathogen foundations (42 credit hours); plant pathology support (2 credit hours);
entomology support (3 credit hours); weed science support (4 credit hours); plant and soil science
foundations (23 credit hours); plant science support (6 credit hours); soil science support (3 credit hours);
natural resources/ecology (3 credit hours); quantitative tools (8 credit hours); law, policy and leadership (6
credit hours); and internships and project (20 credit hours). (See curriculum in Appendix 1.) A
comprehensive examination will be administered at the end of the program. The DPH program also includes
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