Graduate Student Handbook - The University of Tennessee Institute ...

Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology 

Graduate Student Handbook 

Academic Year 2012-2013

ENTOMOLOGY & PLANT PATHOLOGY 

GRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Welcome Statement 1 

Resources 2 

M.S. Program Introduction 3 

M.S. Specializations 4 

Ph.D. Specializations 5 

M.S. Student Checklist 6 

Ph.D. Student Checklist 7 

Core Curriculum 8 

General Procedures for New Students 9 

Entomology and Plant Pathology Faculty 10 

Tentative Schedule of Entomology & Plant Pathology Courses 11 

Entomology & Plant Pathology Courses Offered – Schedule 13 

Entomology and Plant Pathology Course Descriptions 15 

Recommended Course in other Departments 23 

Seminar 25 

Research and Work 30 

Termination 30 

Thesis or Dissertation 30 

Admission to Candidacy M.S. Degree 31 

Admission to Candidacy Ph.D. Degree 31 

Institute Policies and Rights for Graduate Research Assistants 32 

Non-Assistantship Students 34 

Fellowships 34 

Loans 34 

Employment 34 

Resources for Student Problem Resolution 35 

Graduate Student Association 37 

Transportation Policy 38 

Travel Procedures 40 

Forms 44

1 

WELCOME STATEMENT 

Welcome to The University of Tennessee. You are here because we think that you will be a 

successful student and that we can and will provide you with direction toward your professional 

goals. Bear in mind that you are no longer an undergraduate student. Instead, you are on your 

way to becoming a professional in entomology, plant pathology or one of our subdisciplines. 

We expect you to display high standards of personal and professional integrity and to take full 

responsibility for knowing and following all the University and Departmental requirements that 

are pertinent to your program, from how to form your committee to when to file for graduation. 

You are expected to be aware of and satisfy all regulations governing your work and study at the 

University. Because that seems like (and in fact is) an enormously complex task, we will 

provide you with as much assistance as we can. 

This document provides a formal repository for policy statements, procedures and 

requirements and some institutional philosophy. This is not intended to be the sole source of 

information, but should provide you with written guidance in many areas. This is a living 

document. Next year's will differ from this one, as policies change or we find ways of 

accomplishing some tasks that are better than those referenced herein. This handbook will be 

useful to you for as long as you are a student at The University of Tennessee in the Department 

of Entomology and Plant Pathology. Like so much of your educational materials, it may not 

always tell you exactly what to do or where to find something, but it will help you find the right 

source for solving an issue. If, after seeking information in this handbook, you are still uncertain 

about appropriate procedures, seek help from your advisor or a member of our staff. 

The mission of Entomology and Plant Pathology at The University of Tennessee is to 

advance scientific knowledge and provide beneficial information to improve the sustainability of 

food and fiber production, protection of natural resources, and the lives of people in Tennessee 

and beyond. We aim to fulfill this mission through innovative research, knowledge-based 

outreach and excellence in teaching. As a student, you are a vital part of our department and 

mission. The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology strives to adhere to the highest 

ethical standards of integrity, equality, and respect in the performance of our duties and 

interactions with colleagues, students, stakeholders, and cooperators. 

I have an open door policy for all members of the Department. I expect to be a resource for 

information or philosophy for almost anything that affects your professional growth. If I am not 

available at that time an appointment will be made for you, generally within 24 hours if I am in 

town. The Business Manager also has an open door policy and will be able to help with any 

procedure in this handbook. 

Robert N. Trigiano 

Professor and Interim Department Head 

374 Plant Biotechnology Building 

rtrigian@utk.edu

2 

RESOURCES 

University of Tennessee Graduate School http://gradschool.utk.edu/default.shtml 

College of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) 

https://ag.tennessee.edu/casnr/Pages/default.aspx 

University of Tennessee Agriculture Experiment Station (TAES) 

http://taes.tennessee.edu/ 

Entomology & Plant Pathology (EPP) 

http://eppserver.ag.utk.edu/ 

University of Tennessee Graduate Orientation 

http://gradschool.utk.edu/orientation/welcome.shtml 

University of Tennessee Graduate Catalogue http://catalog.utk.edu/index.php?catoid=2 

Thesis/Dissertation Website 

http://web.utk.edu/~thesis/ 

Graduate and International Admissions 

http://graduateadmissions.utk.edu/ 

SPEAK Testing Program 

http://gradschool.utk.edu/speaktest.shtml 

Center for International Education 

http://gradschool.utk.edu/orientation/international.shtml 

International House 

http://graduateadmissions.utk.edu/ 

Student Resources (general orientation information, maps, transportation, etc.) 

http://gradschool.utk.edu/orientation/sresources.shtml 

http://www.utk.edu/currentstudents/ 

Student Health Services http://gradschool.utk.edu/orientation/health.shtml 

Counseling Center 

http://web.utk.edu/~counselingcenter 

VolAware 

http://volaware.utk.edu 

Library 

http://www.lib.utk.edu/regs/gradservices.html 

OIT 

http://oit.utk.edu/ 

Multicultural Student Life/Black Cultural Center 

http://omsa.utk.edu 

Office of Equity and Diversity or Judicial Affairs 

http://web.utk.edu/~osja/ 

Graduate Student Appeals Procedure 

http://gradschool.utk.edu/GraduateCouncil/AppeComm/AppealProcedureApproved2009. 

pdf 

Graduate Student Senate 

http://web.utk.edu/~gss

3 

M.S. PROGRAM IN ENTOMOLOGY & PLANT PATHOLOGY 

PH.D. IN THE PLANTS, SOILS AND INSECTS (PSI) PROGRAM 

INTRODUCTION 

This manual serves as a guide for M.S. students in the Department of Entomology & 

Plant Pathology and Ph.D. students in related concentrations of the Plants, Soils and 

Insects Program (Plant Pathology, Entomology, Integrated Pest Management) (PSI) at 

The University of Tennessee. These regulations and procedures are consistent with the 

requirements of the Office of Graduate and International Admissions as well as those of 

the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) and The 

University of Tennessee Agricultural Experiment Station (TAES). 

Each student is responsible for his or her graduate program and must be aware of the 

rules and regulations and follow them to graduate. The graduate advisor is available for 

assistance but responsibility lies with the student.

4 

SPECIALIZATIONS 

Master of Science Degree 

The M.S. degree program is designed to provide students with the principles and research 

background for a career in the life sciences. Graduates have proven to be competitive in 

obtaining positions at academic institutions, in public service or the private sector, or 

admission to Ph.D. programs. 

Students concentrating in entomology can study crop entomology, forest entomology, 

insect biology, insect ecology, insect pest management, taxonomy, molecular 

systematics, medical and veterinary entomology, biological control, integrated pest 

management, insect physiology, insect pathology, or innovative uses of traditional and 

biorational pesticides. 

Students choosing the plant pathology concentration can study foliar and stem fungal 

diseases, plant nematology, virology, nematology, epidemiology, disease physiology, 

biological control, or ecology of soilborne plant pathogens. 

Many of the specialties within the department involve cross-disciplinary activity. These 

studies include close cooperation and interaction with soil scientists, plant geneticists, 

horticulturists, veterinarians, and ecologists. For instance, the department has special 

interest and expertise in alternative methods of insect and disease management, such as 

biological control, resistant cultivars, integrated pest management, and cultural 

techniques, to help meet the need for healthful food production without or with reduced 

use of pesticides. 

A student seeking the M.S. degree must complete a written thesis based on original 

research and the completion of a minimum of 24 semester hours of course work for 

graduate credit, approved by the student's advisory committee. Included in the course 

requirements are two acceptable seminar presentations for 1 credit hour each. Students 

are strongly encouraged to publish papers derived from their theses. An oral final exam 

must be passed to the satisfaction of the advisory committee after the thesis has been 

completed. The oral exam is both comprehensive and a defense of thesis. 

A minor is not required but may be selected at the option of the student. The minor will 

include at least 6 semester hours and not more than 10 hours of graduate-level credit in 

the minor department. The student's committee shall include a member of the faculty 

from the minor department to assist in designating courses required for the minor.

5 

Ph.D. Degree 

The doctoral degree is evidence of exceptional scholarly attainment and demonstrated 

capacity in original investigation. Requirements for the degree, therefore, include 

courses, examinations, and a period of resident study, as well as arrangements which 

guarantee sustained, systematic study and superior competency in a particular field. 

The student’s program of study is subject to University Graduate Council policies and 

individual program requirements. The program of study as listed by the student on the 

Admission to Candidacy form must be approved by the doctoral committee. Doctoral 

programs include a major field or area of concentration and, frequently, one or more 

cognate fields. Cognate fields are defined as a minimum of 6 semester hours of graduate 

coursework in a given area outside the student’s major field. 

A candidate for doctoral degree must complete a minimum of 24 hours of graduate 

coursework beyond the master’s degree, which is a prerequisite for entry into most 

doctoral programs. If the doctoral program does not require a master’s degree, the 

candidate must complete a minimum of 48 hours of graduate coursework beyond the 

baccalaureate degree. A minimum of 12 of the 24 hours, or 30 of the 48 hours, must be 

graded A-F. A minimum of 6 hours of the student’s coursework must be taken in 

University of Tennessee courses at the 600 level, exclusive of dissertation. 

Ph.D. students are required to present three seminars. The first seminar (for 1 hour of 

EPP 640 credit) is the research proposal seminar. The second seminar (for 1 hour of EPP 

640 credit) is a presentation topic chosen by the student’s committee. See Seminar 

section for details. The third seminar is not for credit, but it is required that the student 

present an exit seminar. 

In addition, 24 hours of course 600 Doctoral Research and Dissertation are required. 

Written and oral Comprehensive and Defense of Dissertation Examinations are required 

of Ph.D. students in the PSI program.

6 

Student Check List 

Master’s Student Program 

I. First Semester 

A. Contact major advisor 

1. International students need to visit the student health services and the Center for 

International Education (CIE) before reporting to the department 

B. Complete departmental paperwork 

1. Bring Passport or (driver’s license and Social Security card) 

a) International students must bring visa paperwork (I-20) 

2. Bring Bank account number and Bank routing number 

C. Develop first semester’s coursework (including deficiencies and prerequisites) 

D. Attend graduate student orientation ( http://gradschool.utk.edu/orientation ) 

E. Form an advisory committee (before first semester finals) 

1. Submit Graduate Student Committee form to Department Head 

2. Schedule and convene your first committee meeting to complete:* 

a) Remaining coursework, approved and attached to evaluation 

b) Approve the proposed research project 

II. Second Semester 

A. Schedule and present M.S. proposal seminar (EPP 541 credit 1 hour) 

B. Schedule and convene committee meeting to discuss academic and research progress * 

III. Summer Session 

A. M.S. students should concentrate on research project 

B. M.S. students should ordinarily not enroll in course work for summer session 

IV. 

Third Semester 

A. Schedule and convene a committee meeting to discuss academic and research progress* 

B. Submit the Admission to Candidacy Application 

C. Attend thesis workshop 

D. Submit Graduation Application 

V. Final Semester of Graduation 

A. Give final exit seminar (EPP 541 credit 1 hour) 

B. Schedule Master’s thesis defense 

1. Defend your thesis (oral examination) 

a) Submit ETD (thesis) to committee members 2 weeks prior to defense 

b) Submit ETD (thesis) to department head 24 hours prior to final exam 

2. Submit Report of Final Examination (Pass/Fail) Form 

C. Meet with Thesis/Dissertation Consultant for preliminary review of your thesis 

D. Submit final ETD (thesis) (approved & accepted by Thesis/Dissertation Consultant) 

E. Pay graduation fee at Bursar’s office 

F. Graduate Hooding Ceremony (optional) register at: 

http://gradschool.utk.edu/hooding/hoodinginfo.shtml 

VI. 

Post Graduation 

A. Schedule an exit interview with Department Head 

B. Return keys, computer or any other UT owned items used during your studies 

** Always invite Department Head and/or Graduate Director to Committee Meetings

7 

Student Check List 

Ph.D. Student Program 

VII. First Semester 

A. Contact major advisor 

1. International students need to visit the student health services and the Center for 

International Education (CIE) before reporting to the department 

B. Complete departmental paperwork 

1. Bring Passport or (driver’s license and Social Security card) 

a) International students must bring visa paperwork (I-20) 

2. Bring Bank account number and Bank routing number 

C. Develop first semester’s coursework (including deficiencies and prerequisites) 

D. Attend graduate student orientation ( http://gradschool.utk.edu/orientation ) 

E. Form an advisory committee (before first semester finals) 

1. Submit Doctoral Committee Appointment Form to Department Head 

2. Schedule and convene your first committee meeting to complete:* 

a) Remaining coursework 

b) Approve the proposed research project 

VIII. Second Semester 

A. Schedule and present Ph.D research proposal seminar 

B. Schedule and convene committee meeting to discuss academic and research progress * 

IX. Interim Semesters 

A. Schedule and convene committee meetings each semester to discuss academic and research 

progress* 

B. Give second Ph.D. Seminar (topic chosen by committee) 

X. Semester Prior to Intended Graduation 

A. Schedule and convene a committee meeting to discuss academic and research progress* 

B. Submit the Admission to Candidacy Application 

C. Attend dissertation workshop 

D. Submit Graduation Application 

E. Complete Oral/written exams (Admission to Candidacy Exams) 

XI. Final Semester of Graduation 

A. Give final exit seminar 

B. Submit Scheduling of Defense of Dissertation Form 

C. Schedule dissertation defense submitting ETD to major professor being courteous of professor’s 

schedule 

1. Defend your dissertation (oral examination) 

a) Submit ETD (dissertation) to committee members 2 weeks prior to defense 

b) Submit ETD (dissertation) to department head 48 hours prior to defense 

2. Submit Report of Final Examination (Pass/Fail) Form 

D. Meet with Thesis/Dissertation Consultant for preliminary review of your dissertation 

E. Submit final ETD (dissertation) (approved & accepted by Thesis/Dissertation Consultant) 

F. Pay graduation fee at Bursar’s office 

G. Graduate Hooding Ceremony (optional) register at: 

http://gradschool.utk.edu/hooding/hoodinginfo.shtml 

XII. Post Graduation 

A. Schedule an exit interview with Department Head 

B. Return keys, computer or any other UT owned items used during your studies 

*** Always invite Department Head and/or Graduate Director to Committee Meetings

8 

M.S. STUDENTS IN PLANT PATHOLOGY 

CORE CURRICULUM 

EPP 313 (Plant Pathology) (3). This course is required of each plant pathology major unless 

he/she can demonstrate that an introductory plant pathology course has already been taken. In 

cases where a student believes he/she has had equivalency without taking a plant pathology 

course, the faculty may administer a proficiency exam. Success on the exam may result in a 

waiver for enrollment in EPP 313. 

EPP 505 Mycology (3) 

EPP 514 Bacterial Plant Diseases (3) 

EPP 520 Plant-Parasitic Nematodes (2) 

EPP 521 Plant Virology (2) 

EPP 528 Advanced Analytical Tools (3) 

Other courses offered by the department in plant pathology are highly recommended, but are not 

part of the core: EPP 512 (Soilborne Plant Pathogens) and EPP 515 (Physiology of Plant 

Disease). PLSC 561 (Statistics for Biological Research) or another statistics course is highly 

recommended and usually will be required by the student’s committee. 

M.S. STUDENTS IN ENTOMOLOGY 

The following courses are required for students majoring in Entomology. A student with prior 

course work and/or experience may petition the entomology teaching faculty for an 

exemption(s). An exemption may be granted by majority vote on the basis of documentary 

evidence, or written and/or oral exams. None of the above supersedes College or University 

requirements for total hours taken in courses numbered at or above the 500 level. 

EPP 530 Integrated Pest Management (3) 

EPP 548 Taxonomy of Adult Insects (3) 

EPP 552 Insect Morphology (3) 

EPP 561 Insect Physiology (2)

9 

GENERAL PROCEDURES FOR NEW STUDENTS 

Meeting with your major professor 

Students and major advisors discuss thesis or dissertation research and coursework soon after 

arrival on campus. Your first semester course work should address any academic deficiencies 

entering the program as well as prerequisites. 

Committee 

Students are expected to be familiar with EPP faculty programs and personnel at Knoxville, 

Jackson, and Nashville campuses. Off-campus departmental faculty in Jackson and Nashville 

may direct graduate student research and frequently serve as valuable committee members. 

Adjunct faculty are eligible to co-direct graduate programs. A current list of faculty is included 

in this document. You may also visit http://eppserver.ag.utk.edu/Faculty.htm to view their 

programs. 

It is our highest recommendation that a student forms his/her committee during the first semester 

before finals. Students are urged to select committee members who are knowledgeable in the 

student's proposed research area and/or can make positive contributions to the proposed research. 

The responsibility of this committee is to assist the student in planning a program of study and 

conducting research, and to assure fulfillment of the degree requirements. The graduate 

committee should meet each semester to approve all coursework applied toward the degree, 

certify the student’s mastery of the major field and any cognate fields, assist the student in 

conducting research, and recommend the thesis/dissertation for approval and acceptance by 

Graduate Student Services. The Department Head should be informed of all committee meetings 

and will attend or send a representative. 

A Master Student’s Committee 

1. Major professor 

2. Two other faculty members (at the rank of assistant professor or above) 

a. If the student has a minor, one member of the committee must be from the minor 

department. 

b. Two members of the M.S. committee must be from the department, but it is recommended 

that one member of the committee be from outside the department. 

3. Submit Graduate Student Committee form to Department Head with approved course work. 

A Ph.D Student’s Doctoral Committee 

1. Major Professor 

2. Three Faculty members (at the rank of assistant professor or above) 

a. Three of these four faculty must be approved by the Graduate Council to direct doctoral research. 

b. At least one member of the Ph.D. committee must be from an academic unit other than the 

student’s major field. 

c. Ph.D. students are encouraged where appropriate to seek a fifth member in the field of 

specialization from outside the university to serve on their dissertation committee. 

3. Submit Doctoral Committee Appointment Form to Department Head with approved course 

work.

10 

ENTOMOLOGY & PLANT PATHOLOGY FACULTY 

Professor and Interim Department Head 

Robert N. Trigiano, Ph.D., North Carolina State University 

Professor and Director of Graduate Studies 

Ernest C. Bernard, Ph.D., University of Georgia 

Professors 

Steven C. Bost, Ph.D., North Carolina State University 

Jerome F. Grant Ph.D., Clemson University 

Frank A. Hale, Ph.D., Ohio State University 

Paris L. Lambdin, Ph.D., Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University 

Bonnie H. Ownley, Ph.D., North Carolina State University 

John A. Skinner, Ph.D., University of California 

Scott Stewart, Ph.D., Auburn University 

Karen M. Vail, Ph.D., University of Florida 

Alan S. Windham, Ph.D., North Carolina State University 

Mark T. Windham, Ph.D., North Carolina State University 

Associate Professors 

Craig H. Canaday, Ph.D., Ohio State University 

Kimberly D. Gwinn, Ph.D., North Carolina State University 

M. Reza Hajimorad, Ph.D., Adelaide University (Australia) 

Juan Jurat-Fuentes, Ph.D., University of Georgia 

Kurt Lamour, Ph.D., Michigan State University 

J. Kevin Moulton, Ph.D., University of Arizona 

Assistant Professors 

Rebecca Trout Fryxell, Ph.D., University of Arkansas 

Heather Young-Kelly, Ph.D., University of Florida 

Research Faculty 

J. Pat Parkman (Research Associate Professor), Ph.D., University of Florida 

Denita Hadziabdic-Guerry (Research Assistant Professor), Ph.D., University of Tennessee 

Cris Oppert (Research Assistant Professor), Ph.D., Florida State University 

Phillip Wadl (Research Assistant Professor), Ph.D., University of Tennessee 

Gregory Wiggins (Research Assistant Professor), Ph.D., University of Tennessee 

Adjunct Faculty 

Pat Donald (Adjunct Associate Professor), Ph.D., North Dakota State University 

Adriean Mayor (Adjunct Assistant Professor), Ph.D., University of California - Davis 

Alemu Mengistu (Adjunct Associate Professor), Ph.D., University of Wisconsin 

Rebecca Nichols (Adjunct Assistant Professor), Ph.D., University of Missouri 

Jason Oliver (Adjunct Assistant Professor), Ph.D., Auburn University 

Timothy A. Rinehart (Adjunct Professor), Ph.D., University of Idaho

Tentative Schedule of EPP Courses 

11 

FALL Odd years SPRING Even years Summer FALL Even years SPRING Odd years 

201 201: Impact of Insects and... 201: Impact of Insects and... 

313 313: Plant Pathology 313: Plant Pathology 

321 321: Economic Entomology 321: Economic Entomology 

325 325: Veterinary Entomol. 

410 410: Insects and Diseases of 

Ornamental Plants 

411 411: Forest Ins. and Diseases 

493 493: Independent Study 493: Independent Study 493: Independent Study 493: Independent Study 493: Independent Study 

500 500: Thesis 500: Thesis 500: Thesis 500: Thesis 500: Thesis 

502 502: Reg. Use Facilities 502: Reg. Use Facilities 502: Reg. Use Facilities 502: Reg. Use Facilities 502: Reg. Use Facilities 

505 505: Mycology 

512 512: Soilborne Plant Pathogens 

514 514: Bacterial Plant Diseases 

515 515: Physiology of Plant Dis. 

520 520: Plant-parasitic Nemas 

521 521: Plant Virology 

523 523: Field Crop & Veg. Ins. 

525 525: Med and Vet. Entomol. 

528 528: Advanced Analytical Tech. 528: Advanced Analytical Tech. 

530 530: Integr. Pest. Manag. 

531 531: Special Prob. Ent. & Pl. Path. 531: Special Prob. Ent. & Pl. Path. 531: Spec. Prob. Ent. & Pl. Path. 531: Special Prob. Ent. & Pl. Path.. 531: Special Prob. Ent. & Pl. Path.

12 

533 533: Conc. Study Entomol. 533: Conc. Study Entomol. 533: Conc. Study Entomol. 

541 541: Seminar 541: Seminar 541: Seminar 541: Seminar 541: Seminar 

548 548: Taxonomy of Adult Ins. 

552 552: Insect Morphology 

560 560: Advanced IPM 

600 600: Doctoral Res. & Diss. 600: Doctoral Res. & Diss. 600: Doctoral Res. & Diss. 600: Doctoral Res. & Diss. 600: Doctoral Res. & Diss. 

602 602: Adv. Topics in Entomol. 602: Adv. Topics in Entomol. 602: Adv. Topics in Entomol. 602: Adv. Topics in Entomol. 602: Adv. Topics in Entomol. 

604 604: Adv, Topics in Pl. Path. 604: Adv, Topics in Pl. Path. 604: Adv, Topics in Pl. Path. 604: Adv, Topics in Pl. Path. 604: Adv, Topics in Pl. Path. 

608 608: Adv. Topics in IPM 

612 612: Soilborne Plant Pathogens 

640 640: Seminar 640: Seminar 640: Seminar 640: Seminar 640: Seminar 

652 652: Insect Morphology 

675 675: Scientific Writing & 

Grantsmanship (Spring 2014) 

675: Scientific Writing & 

Grantsmanship (Spring 2015) 

Green courses in a semester (core curriculum) are linked (taught in tandem, 7 weeks per course). 

Yellow courses are two levels of the same course. 

Blue courses are not regularly scheduled but may be included to cover special topics of particular importance. Check timetable to see if any 

are being offered.

13 

ENTOMOLOGY AND PLANT PATHOLOGY – SCHEDULE OF COURSES 

Courses Offered 

No Title CR Instructor(s) Sp 13 Su 

13 

201 Impact of Insects and Plant Diseases on … 3 Lambdin et al. 

313 Plant Pathology 3 M. Windham 

321 Economic Entomology 3 Lambdin 

325 Veterinary Entomology 3 Trout Fryxell Course will be taught beginning in 2014. 

410 Diseases and Insects of Ornamental Plants 3 M. Windham, Grant 

411 Forest Insects and Diseases 3 Lambdin, M. 

Windham 

493 Independent Study in Ent. And Plant Path. 1-4 

500 Thesis 1-15 

502 Registration for Use of Facilities 1-15 

505 Mycology 3 Ownley 

512 Soilborne Plant Pathogens 3 Ownley 

514 Bacterial Plant Diseases 3 Will be offered when bacteriologist is hired, see major prof about core alternatives. 

515 Physiology of Plant Disease 3 Gwinn 

520 Plant Parasitic Nematodes 2 Bernard 

521 Plant Virology 2 Hajimorad 

523 Field Crop and Vegetable Insects 3 Grant 

525 Med and Vet Entomology 3 Trout Fryxell Course will be taught beginning in 2014. 

528 Advanced Analytical Tools 3 Lamour et al. 

530 Integrated Pest Management 3 Grant 

531 Special Problems in Ent. & Pl. Path. 1-3 

533 Concentrated Study in Entomology 1-3 Offered on an ad hoc basis; see your major professor or other faculty member to add 

this course to a particular semester. 

541 Seminar 1-2 Gwinn 

548 Taxonomy of Adult Insects 3 Moulton 

552 Insect Morphology 3 Lambdin 

560 Advanced Integrated Pest Management 2 Grant 

561 Insect Physiology 2 Jurat-Fuentes 

600 Doctoral Research and Dissertation 3-15 

602 Advanced Topics in Entomology 1-3 Offered on an ad hoc basis; see your major professor or other faculty member to add 


603 Research Planning 1-15 

Fa 

13 

Sp 

14 

Su 

14 

Fa 

14 

Sp 

15 

Su 

15 

Fa 

15 

Sp 16

14 

604 Advanced Topics in Plant Pathology 1-3 Offered on an ad hoc basis; see your major professor or other faculty member to add 


No. Title CR Instructor(s) Sp 13 Su 

13 

608 Advanced Topics in Integ. Pest Manag. 1-3 

612 Soilborne Plant Pathogens 3 Ownley 

640 Seminar 1-2 Gwinn 

652 Insect Morphology 3 Grant 

675 Scientific Writing & Grantsmanship 3 Trigiano, Beyl 

Fa 

13 

Sp 

14 

Su 

14 

Fa 

14 

Sp 

15 

Su 

15 

Fa 

15 

Sp 16 

NOTE: 

This schedule is as accurate as possible as of September 2012. Changes may occur. Some courses are taught on an as-needed basis. 

The on-line timetable will be accurate for the current semester. To check the availability of a particular course in future semesters, 

check with the indicated instructor. For Special Problem and Advanced Topic courses, check with your major professor or with Dr. 

Trigiano.

15 

The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology 

COURSE 

EPP 201 

EPP 313 

EPP 321 

EPP 325 

EPP 410 

EPP 411 

EPP 493 

EPP 500 

EPP 505 

EPP 512 

EPP 514 

EPP 515 

EPP 520 

EPP 521 

EPP 523 

EPP 525 

EPP 528 

EPP 530 

EPP 531 

EPP 533 

EPP 541 

EPP 548 

EPP 552 

EPP 560 

EPP 561 

EPP 600 

EPP 602 

EPP 603 

EPP 604 

EPP 608 

EPP 612 

EPP 640 

EPP 652 

TITLE 

Course Descriptions 

Impact of Insects and Plant Diseases on Human Societies 

Plant Pathology 

Economic Entomology 

Veterinary Entomology 

Diseases and Insects of Ornamental Plants 

Forest Insects and Diseases 

Independent Study in Entomology or Plant Pathology 

Thesis 

Mycology 

Soilborne Plant Pathogens 

Bacterial Plant Diseases 

Physiology of Plant Disease 

Plant Parasitic Nematodes 

Plant Virology 

Field Crop and Vegetable Insects 

Medical and Veterinary Entomology 

Advanced Analytical Techniques 

Integrated Pest Management 

Special Problems in Entomology and Plant Pathology 

Concentrated Study in Entomology 

Seminar 

Taxonomy of Adult Insects 

Insect Morphology 

Advanced Integrated Pest Management 

Insect Physiology 

Doctoral Research and Dissertation 

Advanced Topics in Entomology 

Research Planning 

Advanced Topics in Plant Pathology 

Advanced Topics in Integrated Pest Management 

Soilborne Plant Pathogens 

Seminar 

Insect Morphology

16 

EPP 201 - Impact of Insects and Plant Diseases on Human Societies 

3 Credit Hours 

Insects and plant diseases have had a significant influence on human history, culture, and 

lifestyles. The science of entomology and plant pathology help humankind understand the impact 

of insects and plant pathogens on these dimensions of human existence. The development of 

strategies to capitalize on the beneficial aspects of these organisms will also be explored. 

Instructor(s): All (Coordinator: P. Lambdin) 

This course is not eligible for graduate credit. 

EPP 313 - Plant Pathology 


Introduction to the microorganisms and environmental conditions causing disease in plants. 

Biology of pathogens, host-pathogen interactions, disease development and principles of control. 

Instructor: M. Windham 

(RE) Prerequisites: 6 hrs of Biological Sciences 

Contact Hour Distribution: 2 hrs lecture and 1 hr lab 


EPP 321 - Economic Entomology 


Structure, life history, habits and principles of control of important insect pests of farm, garden, 

orchard, and household. 

Instructor: P. Lambdin 

(RE) Prerequisites: 6 hrs of Biological Sciences 



EPP 325 - Veterinary Entomology 


Identification, biology, and control of arthropods that attack major livestock species. Introduction 

to entomology, methods of insect control, major pest species groups, and problems associated 

with specific host production operations. 

Instructor: R. Trout Fryxell 

(RE) Prerequisites: Biology 122 or equivalent 


This course is not eligible for graduate credit.

17 

EPP 410 - Diseases and Insects of Ornamental Plants 


Symptoms, identification, and management of diseases and insect pests that affect plants in 

greenhouse, nursery, and landscape environments. 

Instructors: M. Windham and J. Grant 

(DE) Prerequisite: EPP 313, EPP 321, or consent of instructor 

Eligible for graduate credit 

EPP 411 - Forest Insects and Diseases 


Insects and pathogens associated with trees and shrubs will be identified and their impacts on 

host plants evaluated. 

Instructors: P. Lambdin and M. Windham 

Eligible for graduate credit 

EPP 493 - Independent Study in Entomology and Plant Pathology 

1-4 Credit Hours 

Laboratory, field, or library research in entomology, plant pathology, or integrated pest 

management under the guidance of a faculty member. 

Repeatability: May be repeated up to a maximum of 6 hours 

EPP 500 - Thesis 


Grading Restriction: P/NP only 

Repeatability: May be repeated 

Registration Restriction: Master of Science in Entomology & Plant Pathology 

EPP 505 - Mycology 


Survey of the fungal kingdom and traditional allies in the context of phyla and classes. 

Systematics, biology, reproduction, structure-function, physiology, and ecology illustrated with 

fresh and preserved material and cultural techniques in laboratories. Contact Hour Distribution: 

2 hours and 1 lab 

(DE) Prerequisites: BIOL 111 and BIOL 112 or BIOL 130 and BIOL 140 

Instructors: B. Ownley and R. Trigiano

18 

EPP 512 - Soilborne Plant Pathogens 


Causal agents; host-parasite-soil environment interactions; epidemiology; detection and 

identification of soilborne plant pathogens; biological, cultural, and chemical control. Credit 

Restriction: Students cannot receive credit for both 512 and 612 

Prerequisite: EPP 313 or consent of instructor 

Registration Restriction: Not open to PhD students 

Instructor: B. Ownley 

EPP - 514 Bacterial Plant Diseases 


Morphology, taxonomy, ecology, physiology, and genetics of bacterial plant pathogens; infection 

and disease development, pathogenesis and resistance; diagnosis, detection, effect of 

environment, and management of bacterial plant diseases; beneficial plant-bacterial interactions. 

Contact Hour Distribution: 3 hours and 1 lab for 7 weeks 

(DE) Prerequisite: EPP 313 or consent of instructor 


EPP - 515 Physiology of Plant Disease 


Biochemical and physiological events involved in host-pathogen interactions. Mechanisms of 

disease resistance. 

Credit Restriction: Students taking 515 cannot receive credit for 615 

Recommended Background: EPP313 or consent of instructor 

Comment: Master’s students only 

Instructors: K. Gwinn 

EPP 520 - Plant Parasitic Nematodes 


Morphology, physiology, taxonomy, ecology, and management of plant parasitic nematodes, and 

host-parasite relationships. 

Contact Hour Distribution: 2 hours and 2 labs weekly for 7 weeks 

Recommended Background: 8 hours of Biology 

Instructor: E. Bernard

19 

EPP - 521 Plant Virology 


Symptomatology, epidemiology, and management of virus infection; structure, morphology, 

replications, transmission, purification, characterization, and classification of plant viruses; 

serology; plant pathogenic viroids, mycoplasmas and spiroplasmas. Contact Hour Distribution: 2 

hours and 1 lab 

Prerequisite: EPP 313 or consent of instructor 

Instructor: R. Hajimorad 

EPP 523 Field Crop and Vegetable Insects 


Identification, biology, ecology, and management of insects affecting field crops, commercial 

vegetables, and home garden crops. 

Contact Hour Distribution: 2 hours and 1 lab 

Recommended Background: EPP 321 or basic entomology course 

Instructor: J. Grant 

EPP 525 - Medical and Veterinary Entomology 


Morphology, taxonomy, biology and control of arthropod parasites and vectors of pathogens of 

humans and animals. Ecology and behavior of vectors in relation to pathogen transmission and 

control. 

Contact Hour Distribution: 2 hours and 1 lab 

Recommended Background: EPP 321, EPP 325, or consent of instructor 

Instructor: R. Trout Fryxell 

EPP 528 - Advanced Analytical Tools 

Credit Hours 3 

An overview of tools and applications for conducting advanced molecular and analytical 

research in entomology, plant pathology and related sciences. Topics will range from DNA/RNA 

extraction, amplification, sequencing, and analysis to protein separation and analysis. The course 

will include lectures and hands-on training using a modular approach divided into 1 to 2-week 

segments. The course is open to upper-level undergraduate (junior or senior), Masters, and Ph.D. 

Instructor: K. Lamour 

EPP 530 - Integrated Pest Management 


Principles and application of biological, cultural, genetic, behavioral, and chemical methods of 

control to maintain pest populations below economic threshold levels. 

Cross Listed: (Same as PLSC 530) 

Recommend Background: EPP 321 or consent of instructor 

Instructor: J. Grant

20 

EPP 531 - Special Problems in Entomology and Plant Pathology 

Credit Hours 1-3 

Comprehensive individual study of current problems. 

Repeatability: May be repeated. Maximum 6 hours. 

Instructors: all 

EPP 533 - Concentrated Study in Entomology 


Selected subjects in entomology for advanced students, concentrated in time and subject matter. 


Recommended Background: EPP 321 or basic entomology course 


EPP 541 - Seminar 


Review in oral or poster form of literature and current research in entomology or plant 

pathology, or report on student’s thesis research; critique and analysis of presentation 

effectiveness. Presentations on current topics by outside speakers. 


Comment: Master students only 

EPP 548 - Taxonomy of Adult Insects 


Classification, phylogeny, and distribution of insects and related arthropods. Lectures on theory 

and practice of insect systematics and major features of insect evolution. Laboratory practice on 

methods of collection, preservation, and study of insects, with emphasis on order and family 

identification of adults. Substantial insect collection (above requirements for EPP 448), one or 

more field trips, and a taxonomically oriented project required. 

Credit Restriction: Students cannot receive credit for both EPP 448 and EPP 548 

Registration Permission: Consent of instructor 

Instructor: K. Moulton 

EPP 552 - -Insect Morphology 


Identification of insect structures and relevance of structures to insect development, survival, 

physiology, and classification. 

Contact Hour Distribution: 2 hours lecture and 1 lab 

Registration Restriction: Students cannot receive credit for both EPP 552 and EPP 652

21 

EPP 560 - Advanced Integrated Pest Management 


Practical applications of the ecological principles and concepts of pest management as related by 

practitioners and experts; field trips required. 

Contact Hour Distribution: 2 hours lecture 

EPP 561 - Insect Physiology 


Molecular, cellular, and tissue mechanisms involved in relevant physiological processes in 

insects, and the evolutionary diversity of these processes among insect taxa. Students will be 

able to identify and understand emerging areas of research in insect physiology and molecular 

biology. 

Recommended background: Biochemistry, molecular biology, basic cell biology 

Instructor: J. Jurat-Fuentes 

EPP 600 - Doctoral Research and Dissertation 



Repeatability: May be repeated. 

Registration Restriction(s): Doctor of Philosophy - Plant, Soils, and Insects major. 

EPP - 602 Advanced Topics in Entomology 


Morphology, systematics, physiology, ecology and genetics of arthropods, apiculture, medical 

and veterinary entomology, insect biodiversity, insect pathology. 

Repeatability: May be repeated. Maximum 12 hours 


EPP - 603 Research Planning 


Preliminary research and investigation of dissertation research topic. 


Repeatability: May be repeated. Maximum 15 credit hours 

EPP 604 - Advanced Topics in Plant Pathology 


Biological control, disease diagnosis and management, epidemiology, fungal plant pathogens, 

integrated pest management, molecular plant-microbe interactions, nematology, plant 

pathogenesis, plant pathogenic bacteria, soil and seed-borne pathogens, and virology. 

Repeatability: May be repeated. Maximum 12 hours

22 

EPP 608 - Advanced Topics in Integrated Pest Management 


Selected issues and topics of current significance to integrated pest management: transgenics in 

agriculture, issues in biological control, pesticide resistance management, ethics in pest 

management, environmental manipulations, epidemiology of plant diseases, biological control of 

plant pests, induced plant resistance, plant-microbe interactions, and new pesticide chemistries. 

Repeatability: May be repeated. Maximum 12 hours 

(RE) Prerequisite: EPP 530 or consent of instructor 

Instructor(s): J. Grant 

EPP 612 - Soilborne Plant Pathogens 


Causal agents; host-parasite-soil environment interactions; epidemiology; detection and 

identification of soilborne plant pathogens; biological, cultural, and chemical control. Credit 

Restriction: Students cannot receive credit for both EPP 512 and EPP 612 

(DE) Prerequisite: EPP 313 or consent of instructor 


EPP 640 – Seminar 

1 Credit Hour 

Review of literature and current research in entomology and plant pathology. Repeatability: May 

be repeated. Maximum 2 hours 

EPP 652 - Insect Morphology 


Identification of insect structures and relevance of structures to insect development, survival, 

physiology, and classification. 

Contact Hour Distribution: 2 hours lecture and 1 lab 

Credit Restriction: Students cannot receive credit for EPP 552 and EPP 652 

The Intercollegiate Graduate Statistics Program (IGSP) offers minors in statistics for both M.S. 

and Ph.D. student. For more information regarding this minor at 

http://www.bus.utk.edu/stat/igsp/. 

NOTE to undergraduates: courses 491 and above can be taken with approval of your advisor 

and the course instructor.

23 

Recommended Courses in Other Departments 

(Numbers and offerings change periodically, check with department for availability) 

Department Course Course Title 

Animal Science ANSC 572 Mixed Linear Statistical Modeling 

Biochemistry and 

Cellular and Molecular 

Biology 

BCMB 401 

Biochemistry I 

BCMB 402 Biochemistry II 

BCMB 404 Plant Molecular Biology 

BCMB 511 Advanced Protein Chemistry and Cellular Biology 

BCMB 512 Advanced Molecular Biology 

BCMB 513 Advanced Protein Biochemistry and Cell Biology 

II 

BCMB 515 Experimental Techniques I 

BCMB 516 Experimental Techniques II 

BCMB 522 Advanced Plant Physiology I 

BCMB 523 Advanced Plant Physiology II 

BCMB 562 Introduction to Electron Microscopy – 

Transmission Electron 

BCMB 564 Introduction to Electron Microscopy – Scanning 

Electron Microscope 

Biosystems Engineering BSE 555 GIS and GPS Applications to Biosystems 

Comparative and 

Experimental Medicine – 

Veterinary Medicine 

Ecology and Evolutionary 

Biology 

CMVM 504 

EEB 421 

EEB 543 

Descriptive and Applied Epidemiology 

Community Ecology 

Aquatic Insects 

English ENGL 462 Writing for Publications 

Environmental and Soil 

Sciences 

Food Science and 

Technology 

Forestry, Wildlife and 

Fisheries 

ESS 544 

FDST 521 

FWF 520 

MICR 410 

MICR 411 

Environmental Soil Biology 

Advanced Food Microbiology 

Natural Resources Issues at International Level 

Microbial Physiology 

Microbial Genetics

24 

Materials Science and 

Engineering 

MICR 470 

MICR 420 

MICR 540 

MICR 576 

MICR 601 

MICR 602 

MICR 604 

MICR 605 

MICR 610 

MICR 620 

MICR 640 

MICR 650 

MSE 672 

MSE 673 

Microbial Ecology 

Microbial Pathogenesis 

Genomics and Bioinformatics 

Applied Microbiology and Bioengineering 

Journal Club in Microbial Physiology 

Journal Club in Microbial Pathogenesis 

Journal Club in Virology 

Journal Club in Microbial Genetics 

Topics in microbial Physiology 

Topics in Microbial Pathogenesis 

Topics in Virology 

Topics in Microbial and Molecular Genetics 

Introduction to Transmission EM and Electron 

Diffraction 

Introduction to Scanned Probe Microscopies 

Plant Sciences PLSC 515 Agroecology 

PLSC 532 Environmental Plant Ecophysiology 

PLSC 561 Statistics for Biological Research 

PLSC 571 Design and Analysis of Biological Research

25 

SEMINAR 

Chair, Kimberly Gwinn (kgwinn@utk.edu; 4-7951) 

Jerome Grant and Kurt Lamour 

All students pursuing a graduate degree in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology 

are required to register twice for EPP 541(M.S.) or EPP 640(Ph.D.) 

All graduate students in the EPP department are required to attend all seminars whether or 

not they are registered for credit; exceptions include class conflicts, required field research, 

and scientific meetings. Students may register for one hour of credit two times (see student check 

list for appropriate times to register for credits.) 

SEMINARS (EPP 541) (M.S.) 

For M.S. students, the first seminar will be a research proposal seminar OR a seminar presented 

on a topic approved by the Seminar Committee. The second (exit) seminar will cover results of 

the student’s thesis research. 

I. Proposal/Topic Seminar. For the first seminar, students and their major professor will 

have a choice of the type of seminar to be presented to the department and guests. The 

seminar will be of one of the first two types outlined below: 

1. Research Proposal Seminar – If you chose this seminar type, you should work closely 

with your major professor to develop the seminar as close to the format outlined 

for a topic seminar as is reasonable. This option is available to students ONLY 

for the first two semesters. If you do not give a seminar within the first two 

semesters, then you must do a Topic Seminar (see below). 

2. Topic Seminars – You will be provided with a topic by the seminar committee. This 

topic will typically be too broad in scope for a single seminar. You should 

conduct a literature search and select an area within the topic. This topic should 

be as follows: 

a. narrow enough to present the results of research. You will graduate with a 

research degree, and training in presenting research results is essential, and 

b. narrow and selective so that you will know as much, or more, about the 

subject as any of the faculty members attending your seminar. You cannot 

learn this much about a broad topic. 

c. The meat of your topic seminar should be research objective or results. 

Choose the important experiments and findings and show the data. Always 

tell the audience who did the work and where it was done. If it is pertinent, 

tell the audience how the data were obtained, especially if new or 

innovative methods were used. Explain what the data mean in relation to 

the overall seminar topic. Previously, you should have read the discussion 

parts of the research papers. Are the findings of this work significant? 

What did the author think about these results? Does it confirm or refute 

previous work? What were the conditions of the experiment that, validate 

or invalidate it? What do you, as a critical reviewer, think?

II. Final Exit Research Seminar – After the original research program is completed, all 

students will give an exit seminar their last semester and must register for 1 hour credit of 

EPP 541. 

SEMINAR TYPES (EPP 640) (Ph.D.) 

For Ph.D. students, three seminars will be required, but only the first two seminars (proposal and 

second) are taken for seminar credit. The required seminars are outlined below: 

I. Research Proposal Seminar –You should work closely with your major professor to 

develop the seminar 

II. Second Ph.D. Seminar – The purpose of the second Ph.D. seminar is to further develop 

presentation skills in an area in which the student has expertise/interest. The student can 

choose among several formats for the second seminar. All members of the seminar 

committee must approve the topic at least four weeks prior to the seminar. 

1. Current Trends in your field – very up-to-date. The objective of this seminar is to 

have the student analyze the literature in his/her area of expertise and present 

findings from current (within the last two years) premier papers in his/her field. 

The student must provide enough background material for the audience to 

understand the significance of the papers. Esoteric and slang terminology should 

be kept to a minimum and clarified fully. 

2. Research Hot topics – Out of your area (in general, research not being conducted 

in our department). Students presenting this type of seminar will choose a topic 

that is currently in the literature – a new idea, a new technique or a new body of 

work. The student must provide enough background material for the audience to 

understand the significance of the papers. Esoteric and slang terminology should 

be kept to a minimum and clarified fully. 

3. Innovative seminar (e.g. Extension, overseas experience, industry experience, 

success with grant at Ph.D. level from start to finish). The seminar committee 

should be involved very early in discussions regarding this type of seminar. 

4. Because of the trend of having candidates for faculty positions present a lecture, 

any of the previous three seminars types may be presented as a graduate lecture. 

III. Exit Seminar - After the original research program is completed, all students will give an 

exit seminar. This seminar is required, but the student is not registered for seminar so it 

does not have to be scheduled with the seminar committee. 

26

27 

SEMINAR PREPARATION AND PRESENTATION 

I. Oral delivery 

1. Avoid reading your seminar presentation. The idea of giving an extemporaneous 

seminar frightens some students, but you are a professional and must learn to do 

this. Seminars are invaluable for experience in presentation without reading. You 

have already been classified as “above average” by being admitted to this 

department. An above average student does not read his/her seminar paper. 

2. Do not memorize your seminar. Some students are good at memorizing, and can 

recite a seminar presentation perfectly. But these students usually give it in a 

“sing-song” voice and/or use stilted and conventional textbook style language. 

Notes are acceptable and desirable if you need them. Your notes can be in the 

form of words, phrases, or outlines to follow. 

3. Describe the information you wish to convey in your own words. However, avoid 

slang and poor grammar. 

4. Practice!!! You should practice your seminar at least once with your major professor 

before the practice run for the committee. Practice in the seminar room, if 

possible. 

II. Length 

1. Topic Seminars (M.S.) will last at least 30-35 minutes. There will be a 10-minute time 

period for questions. 

2. Proposal, Second Ph.D, and Exit Seminars will last at least 30-45 minutes. There will 

be a 10-minute time period for questions. 

III. Visual Aids 

1. Tabular data: Do not copy tables from the literature. They usually contain so much 

material that your audience in the back of the room cannot read the values. Tables 

containing excessive data are confusing. Re-make the table and include only the 

results of a few treatments. 

2. Graphs: Simple graphs may be copied from publications. Be sure that the lines and 

values given are large enough to be read from the back of the room. When 

presenting a graph, always describe it fully, e.g., “this graph illustrates the 

relationship of temperature (point to horizontal axis) to spore size in Alternaria 

solani. The vertical axis (point) represents spore size in micrometers. As the 

temperature increased up to X degrees (point), spore size increased, then sharply 

decreased with further rises in temperature. This experiment was done by A. R. 

Richie, a USDA pathologist at the University of Maryland.” 

3. Photographs: When presenting details of a photograph such as a photomicrograph of 

hyperplasia in phloem tissue, or markings on the abdomen of an insect, etc., first 

explain what the photo is about, so that the audience (especially those in other 

disciplines who see only a mass of jumbled lines and curves) can understand what 

they are seeing. Then point out details. 

IV. Electronic Technology 

1. PowerPoint is the recommended software program for seminar presentations. 

2. Laptop computers to prepare the presentation are available for checkout from Leslie 

Johnson (PBB 153). 

3. The day before the seminar, students should provide Dr. Darrell Hensley or Bob 

Robinson with the PowerPoint files so he can load the files into Centra. If the

28 

PowerPoint presentation is larger than 10mB, please break into sections. Label 

files with your name and the section number, if needed (e.g., kgwinnsection2). 

Written Summary 

I. A brief summary (1 to 2 pages) of the presentation, with pertinent literature citations, 

must be delivered to all departmental faculty, students, and staff by the student on 

Wednesday (by noon), two days prior to the day of the scheduled seminar. Students 

should e-mail the summary to Deborah Eslinger (deslinge@utk.edu) and copied to Dr. 

Gwinn and Kimberly Campbell with a request that she forward to all faculty, students 

and staff. Summaries that are received after Wednesday at noon will be considered late 

and may result in a 5 point grade deduction (1/2 letter grade). Summaries can also be 

sent to the department by the student with the distribution list used by the seminar chair 

for announcements. 

II. Quality of the summary will be evaluated as part of the student’s grade. It is 

recommended that you submit the summary to your major professor and the 

seminar committee will review the summary upon request. 

III. The literature citations should follow the format of APS or ESA journals. 

Practice Run 

I. Student who have not given a seminar are required to present a practice “dry-run” of the 

seminar one week prior to the scheduled seminar. Members of the Seminar Committee 

will attend. PBB 160 is reserved for this purpose at 9:00 AM on Fridays. If you have a 

class conflict at this time, please contact the seminar chair and other arrangements will be 

made. 

II. The student’s major professor or their designee MUST attend. 

III. The dry-run will be scheduled for 1 hour. 

IV. Students should have all slides prepared, a script prepared (written notes or memorized), 

and should be able to give the complete seminar within the recommended time frame. 

This necessitates that the student has practiced the seminar before the dry-run. 

V. Students not meeting the above criteria will receive an “Incomplete” grade and will be 

given an opportunity to clear the “Incomplete" the following semester. 

Students who have previously given seminars and think that they need extra help may 

request a dry-run with the Seminar Committee. The student’s major professor must also 

be present.

29 

Grading 

I. Entomology and Plant Pathology faculty members, students, and staff, and visitors 

attending the seminars will evaluate students on the basis of criteria listed on the Student 

Seminar Evaluation Form. 

II. Evaluations will be reviewed and discussed by members of the Seminar Committee. The 

Chair of the Committee will discuss the audience evaluations with the student. Students 

should make an appointment with the seminar chair during the week of final exams 

to discuss the seminar. Final grade assignments will be made by the Chair of the 

Seminar Committee at the end of the semester. 

III. Final grades will be based on written summary, practice run (when required) and 

seminar. The following point values will be assigned: 

Seminar Set-up 

Title Submitted Timely (before 2 nd seminar each semester by 5 

noon) 

Summary Submitted to Department on Time 5 

Quality of Summary 15 

Attendance 5 

Practice Run (When Required) 20 

Seminar (when Practice Run is Required) 50 

Seminar (When Practice Run is not Required) 70 

Seminars are usually held in Plant Biotechnology Building (see time table for room). 

The Seminar Committee will provide the student with a laptop computer for the seminar 

presentation. Students should have their presentations on flash drives provided by the EPP 

department. New students should contact Kimberly Campbell to obtain a flash drive.

30 

Research Support and Work 

Assistantships are awarded to the department in lieu of additional technical support. Therefore, 

GRAs on departmental funding are expected to perform in a support capacity in addition to their 

own thesis or dissertation research projects. This requires working the hours mutually agreed 

upon by the GRA and the assigned supervisor. Hours working in the lab on nonacademic 

projects should not exceed 20 hours. 

The work responsibilities for GRAs may include: 

A. Student’s own thesis or dissertation research, when agreed upon by both student 

and major professor, and is to be considered a priority. 

B. Major advisor's research. 

C. Research of other project leaders in the department. 

D. Other duties as assigned. 

Students shall keep their major professor apprised of any difficulties in meeting their workload 

or their work in a support capacity. 

Termination 

Termination of a GRA’s assistantship may be recommended by the student's committee for poor 

scholarship, lack of research progress, or failure to comply with University or departmental 

guidelines. Progress of GRAs will be reviewed each semester by the major professor and 

committee. A report will be rendered to the department head. 

Thesis or Dissertation 

It is the responsibility of the student to have a thesis or dissertation completed to the satisfaction 

of the committee and to furnish approved ETD’s to the Office of Graduate Student Services, 

department, major professor and each committee member desiring one. A electronic copy of the 

thesis or dissertation (ETD) draft is to be presented to each member of the graduate committee 

for critique at least two weeks prior to the oral examination. Failure to comply with this time 

requirement may result in extending the time period necessary for completion of the M.S. or 

Ph.D. program. A copy of the draft is to be made available to the department head, or 

representative, 24 hours (thesis) and 48 hours (dissertation) prior to the final exam.

31 

ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - M.S. DEGREE 

Admission to Candidacy indicates agreement among the student’s committee that the 

student has demonstrated ability to do acceptable graduate work and that satisfactory 

progress has been made toward a degree. This action connotes that all prerequisites to 

admission have been completed and a program of study has been approved. The 

Admission to Candidacy Form (http:/gradschool.utk.edu/forms/Master_Adm_Cand.pdf) 

must be signed by the student's committee and all courses to be used for the degree must 

be listed, including transfer coursework. The student must submit this form to the 

Office of the University Registrar no later than the last day of classes of the semester 

preceding the semester in which he/she plans to graduate. 

ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - Ph.D. DEGREE 

Admission to Candidacy indicates agreement that the student has demonstrated the ability 

to do acceptable graduate work and that satisfactory progress has been made toward a 

degree. This action usually connotes that all prerequisites to admission have been 

completed and a program of study has been approved. A student may be admitted to 

candidacy for the doctoral degree after passing the comprehensive examination, fulfilling 

any language requirements (for Doctor of Philosophy), and maintaining at least a 3.0 

average in all graduate coursework. Each student is responsible for filing the Admission 

to Candidacy Form (http:/gradschool.utk.edu/forms/Adm_Candidacy_Docs.pdf), which 

lists all courses to be used for the degree, including courses taken at the University of 

Tennessee, Knoxville, or at another institution prior to admission to the doctoral program, 

and is signed by the doctoral committee. Admission to candidacy must be applied for 

and approved by the Office of the University Registrar at least one full semester 

prior to the date the degree is to be conferred.

INSTITUTE POLICIES AND RIGHTS FOR GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTS 

1. Graduate Research Assistants (GRAs) are employees responsible to the Department Head 

and are under the supervision of their major advisor. They are appointed to contribute to the 

research program of the TAES under the direction of their major advisor. Their workload 

(beyond academics and their individual research project) is considered to be 50% of a 

full-time equivalent or 20 hours per week. 

2. GRAs pursuing an M.S. degree are paid a minimum of $14,000. Ph.D. stipends are 

negotiated on a case-by-case basis. This stipend is to be paid in 12 equal portions and is 

subject to Federal Income Tax year-round and Social Security when the student is not 

enrolled in classes, e.g., between semesters and during the summer. 

3. A maximum of 20 hours of academic work per calendar year may be taken. M.S. students 

on departmental funding are expected to complete the requirements for the M.S. degree in 2 

years. Experiment Station-funded M.S. assistantships are funded only for 24 months. 

Students normally take all coursework, thesis hours, etc., during fall and spring semesters. 

Students will not sign up for courses during the summer semester unless: 1) a necessary 

course is taught only in the summer, or 2) the student is graduating in the summer semester 

and has to enroll for Seminar (EPP 541) and three hours of Thesis (EPP 500). 

4. Ph.D. students are required to take at least 1 credit of EPP 600 every semester once they have 

first received credit for it. 

5. Out-of-state tuition is waived by Graduate Studies for all GRAs with granted assistantships. 

University-mandated health insurance is paid by the department or from granting agencies. 

All other fees are paid by the student. GRAs are eligible for official University holidays. 

6. GRAs will develop a work schedule in consultation with their faculty sponsor(s). Your 

assistantship can be an extremely valuable portion of your training. The first priority of all 

graduate assistants must be satisfactory progress in their scholastic program. At the same 

time, acceptance of an assistantship is predicated on the belief that satisfactory progress can 

be concurrently achieved with additional work assignments. Collaborative efforts between 

graduate assistants and their supervisors should be focused on the goal of satisfactory 

performance in both these areas. 

7. An M.S. student on an Experiment Station assistantship and his/her major professor together 

with the Advisory Committee will select a thesis problem which can be completed within 

the two year term normally expected for the M.S. degree program. Circumstances beyond 

the control of the student may necessitate a longer time for completion, but there is no 

guarantee that a funded assistantship will be continued. However, the student may request 

an extension of the assistantship through the major professor to the department head by 

writing a justification as to why the extension is needed. The major professor should concur 

and write a letter in support of the extension. The Department Head and Graduate Program 

Directors will carefully evaluate each request on the basis of the individual circumstances 

involved and availability of funds and notify the student of the decision. 

32

8. The Student Health Clinic administers the graduate student employee health insurance 

program. The health plan requires a referral by the Student Health Clinic. Graduate 

students enrolled in less than 9 hours and who have not paid the student health fee must pay 

the health fee each semester in order to utilize the Student Health Service (prior to using the 

health plan). Students may elect to add spouse or dependent coverage at their own expense. 

Please direct questions regarding the graduate student employee health insurance to the 

Student Health Clinic at 865-974-3135. 

9. In all cases of appointment and reappointment, the supervisor is responsible for notifying the 

graduate assistant as early as possible. When an assistantship is not to be renewed, the 

graduate student should be notified in advance. In most cases, this notice must be given no 

later than one month prior to the end of the appointment. Specific reasons for not renewing 

the contract should be given (e.g., discontinuation of the program or grant, significant 

neglect of duty, unsatisfactory academic performance or progress toward a degree, lack of 

research progress, or non-compliance with university policies, etc.). In cases where an 

assistantship is for one year only, the student should be told this at the time of appointment. 

In some circumstances, graduate assistants may be given a conditional appointment such as 

an appointment in which funding of a grant is pending. 

10. In cases where graduate assistants feel that they have a legitimate complaint about any 

aspect of carrying out their assignments (work hours, duties assigned, pay, work conditions, 

etc.), they have a right to pursue all established channels to resolve the conflict. In the order 

that follows, the student should speak to his/her immediate supervisor, the department head, 

the appeals committees in the home unit or college, and the dean of CASNR. If the student 

feels that a resolution should be sought beyond the department/college level, the Dean of 

Graduate Studies should be contacted. Established procedures are outlined in the Graduate 

Council Appeals Procedure and/or Hilltopics. 

11. The maximum number of years that a graduate assistant can be appointed to an assistantship 

is three years as a master’s student, five years as a doctoral student, or eight years in doctoral 

programs in which students enter with a baccalaureate degree only. Some units may have 

maximum time limits that are less than those stated above. Requests for an extension 

beyond the maximum terms here specified must be made in writing by the academic unit to 

the Dean of Graduate Studies. In EPP these requests should be routed through the Graduate 

Program Directors. 

12. As students, graduate assistants’ rights and responsibilities are defined in the Faculty 

Handbook section on Student Rights and Responsibilities and the Student Rights and 

Responsibilities section of Hilltopics. Additional rights and responsibilities of graduate 

students are found on the student’s copy of the admission status form. 

33

34 

NON-ASSISTANTSHIP STUDENTS 

Full or part-time employees may pursue graduate degrees. Procedures for regular university 

employees in relation to making up work and number of hours/semester are detailed in 

Policy No.: HRO330 

https://my.tennessee.edu/portal/page?_pageid=34,140536&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTA 

L&p_policy=HR0330 . 

Students not on assistantship or employed by UT will work with their advisor to determine 

class loads and research schedules on a case-by-case basis to ensure a timely progression 

through the program. 

FELLOWSHIPS 

Graduate Fellowships are available at the University and Graduate School level. Eligibility 

requirements, application procedures, stipends and responsibilities for graduate fellowships 

are found at the Graduate Studies web site (http://gradstudies.utk.edu/default.shtml). 

LOANS 

Student loans for graduate students are administered by the Office of Financial Aid and 

Scholarships at 115 Student Services Building. 

EMPLOYMENT 

Graduate Research Assistant Students with 50% FTE appointment may not incur further oncampus 

work obligations without specific approval from the Dean of Graduate Studies. 

GRAs with 50% appointments are discouraged from engaging in off-campus employment.

35 

RESOURCES FOR STUDENT PROBLEM RESOLUTION 

Learning to address issues and solve problems in an informed, proactive way helps students 

improve their knowledge of the University as well as develop personally. When students 

experience problems at UTK, there are several offices available to help them. 

Issues Related to Academic Coursework: 

Issues related to grades or academic coursework should first be addressed with the course 

instructor, then the appropriate department head, and finally the dean of the college in which the 

course is offered. If an appropriate solution cannot be reached through discussions with these 

individuals, the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Academic Affairs (for undergraduate students) 

or the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies (for graduate students) can offer assistance regarding 

the best “next steps” for problem resolution. Issues related to academic advising should be 

addressed first with the advisor, then the director of the appropriate advising center, then the 

dean of the appropriate college, and finally with the coordinator of advising, who is the 

Associate Dean for Undergraduate Academic Affairs. 

Issues Related to Campus Life: 

All comments and concerns related to campus life, student organization, or student interests 

should be directed to the Dean of Students Office. Staff in this office will assist in resolving a 

concern or identifying the appropriate channel of appeal. 

Students who are unsure how to initiate the process of problem resolution may contact the Dean 

of Students (974-3179), the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Academic Affairs (974-3564), or 

the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies (974-3251) for assistance in determining the appropriate 

administrative channels of appeal. 

Staff in the following offices provide support and guidance for students who are pursuing the 

resolution of University-related problems. These staff: (1) explore problems encountered by 

individual students, (2) inform students of appropriate administrative channels that should be 

utilized for problem resolution, and (3) work to address the broader issues and policies that 

impact all students. Each office is open from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

Students are encouraged to visit any of these offices to share their concerns and ask for 

assistance. 

1. Associate Dean of Undergraduate Academic Affairs (401 Student Services, 974- 

3564). The Office of Undergraduate Academic Affairs is committed to supporting 

students and helping with the integration of student and academic life. This office 

provides support for students in the early undergraduate years and leadership 

opportunities for upper class students. The Associate Dean maintains effective working 

relationships with the undergraduate colleges and has a unique understanding of the 

academic problem students face. 

2. Associate Dean of Graduate Studies (218 Student Services, 974-3251). The 

Associate Dean of Graduate Studies is available to assist graduate students who are 

experiencing difficulties or want to express academic concerns related to their graduate 

programs.

3. Dean of Students (413 Student Services Building, 974-3179). The Dean of 

Students Office sponsors and coordinates activities that focus on student growth and 

development outside of the classroom. This office advocates on behalf of all students, 

supplements existing channels of appeal, and helps students to resolve problems in a 

variety of areas. 

4. Office of Equity and Diversity (1840 Melrose Avenue, 974-2498). The Office of 

Equity and Diversity (OED) assists the University community in its goal to affirm 

diversity as an opportunity for personal growth and development. OED provides 

resources and services for the enhancement of diversity programs campus-wide. In 

addition, OED works with members of the University community who wish to file a 

complaint of discrimination or sexual harassment. All complaints receive private and 

immediate attention. 

5. Conflict Resolution Program (916 22 nd Street, 974-4736). The Conflict 

Resolution Program provides mediation services whereby people having conflict can 

work with a neutral third party to resolve their differences. The Conflict Resolution 

Program also offers seminars, internship opportunities, and consultation for individuals or 

groups. Services are available to students, faculty, and staff. They are voluntary and 

confidential. 

6. Dean, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) (126 

Morgan Hall, 974-7303). 

7. Office of Disability Services (191 Hoskins Library, 974-6087). If you need 

course adaptations or accommodations because of a documented disability or if you have 

emergency information to share, please contact the Office of Disability Services. This 

will ensure that you are properly registered for service. 

36

37 

GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION 

The Graduate Student Association (GSA) is involved in various community awareness 

programs, including visits to local elementary schools and the Ijams Insect Walk. On the 

Agriculture campus, the Association participates in University events, and assembles a 

bulletin board to educate undergraduates about the Department of Entomology and Plant 

Pathology. 

Officers for the Graduate Student Association are elected each fall semester for 1-year 

terms. 

A Student Organization Update Form should be filled out each time officers change. 

A designated representative from GSA is entitled and expected to attend EPP faculty 

meetings at the discretion of the department head.

38 

TRANSPORTATION POLICY 

1. When circumstances require departmental transportation to conduct research 

activities, departmental vehicles can be signed out on an as needed basis (see Deborah 

Eslinger in Ellington 205.) When not in use, they are to be placed in Lot CFN1 across 

from Brehm Animal Science. 

2. Vehicles are available on a first come, first served basis. Please choose vehicles 

best suited for your trip's need. Consolidate the use of vehicles when possible to ensure 

efficient use. A sign-up book and keys are located in 205 Ellington Plant Sciences 

Building. If you have signed out a vehicle and are not going to use it, or have finished 

with it early, please cross your name out so it will be available to others. Please have 

consideration for other researchers by making reservations on a one week prior time 

basis. Vehicles used for routine greenhouse and other in-town jobs are subject to the 

same sign-up requirements. 

3. Persons that check out a vehicle are expected to read and adhere to the following 

statements: 

Upon returning from a trip, remove all items including any drink cans, lunch bags, candy 

wrappers, etc., and all working equipment and supplies. If excessive amounts of dirt, 

dust, or mud have accumulated either on the inside or outside of the vehicle, then it is that 

person's responsibility to see to it that it is cleaned. If soil, pots, sand, or any other debris 

is hauled in either truck, the driver is expected to hose out the bed before putting away 

the vehicle. At scheduled intervals vehicles will be taken to the motor pool for a more 

thorough cleaning. 

4. Vehicles taken out-of-town are to be refueled and oil checked upon returning to 

campus. Local use transportation is expected to be refueled and oil-checked when the 

gauge reads one-half full. The motor pool is open 7:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. Monday 

through Friday. 

5. Any problems, broken parts, strange noises, malfunctions, etc., are to be reported 

to the Deborah Eslinger immediately. The purpose of reporting is to get the vehicle back 

on the road as soon as possible and prevent further damage. 

6. A reimbursement of $0.47/mile (rate is subject to change) is for use of a 

personally-owned vehicle for local travel. You are encouraged to utilize this method for 

travel off campus (stores, Plant Sciences Farm, etc.) when departmental vehicles are not 

available. Travel to Main Campus cannot be reimbursed since there is bus transportation 

available throughout the day. 

7. After each trip, lock vehicle and return keys to 205 Ellington. Leave a message 

on sign-out book as to where the vehicle is located if not in the designated area.

39 

8. Use of UT Transportation equipment is a privilege and not a right. Abuse of 

privileges by students, staff, or faculty may result in loss of such privilege. 

9. A log is located in each vehicle for driver to log in each trip, i.e., date, driver, 

beginning and ending odometer readings, and account numbers. Please comply with this 

request so that mileage can be charged to appropriate accounts. 

10. Wearing seat belts is a state law - any traffic citation is the responsibility of the 

driver. We are expected to obey all posted speed limits. 

11. To purchase gas and oil at an out-of-town location, use Fleet One as the main 

source of fuel and then use the Voyager or Fuelman card. Fleet One has a website for 

locations at http://wwwfleetone.com. All gas cards are in the leather key pocket of each 

vehicle. In Knoxville, fuel should be obtained from UT Motor Pool (Transportation 

Services). 

12. WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY. If there is an injury - call 911. If an 

accident occurs always get a police report. Usually, the Voyager card can be used for 

minor repairs when out of town. However, should an emergency occur where the 

“Voyager” card cannot be used you may call the UT Motor Pool at the following 

numbers: 7:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. 974-2134. 

For emergencies from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., you may call UT Safety and Security at 

974-3114. This number will get a tow-in only. 

For further safety precautions call 911 and request police to come to where vehicle is 

broken down. 

Flashlights, triangular reflective flares, and other emergency items have been placed in 

each vehicle for your added personal safety. We encourage you to use these should the 

need arise. 

14. There will be no smoking in any departmental vehicles. 

If you do not adhere to these policies you may be refused permission to drive department 

vehicles.

Graduate Student Handbook - The University of Tennessee Institute ...

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