Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any prerequisites to be admitted to the degree program?
Yes, students must meet the requirements of the University graduate school, apply for admission to the graduate program, and be admitted. It is highly recommended that students have a background in agriculture or a related area.
Are there any areas of concentration in the degree?
The MS in Agriculture provides students opportunity to explore in an area that may expand their employment opportunities. Specific concentrations are not offered concentration areas are limited to the field of agriculture in a general way.
Where can we get additional information if we have questions about the degree?
For online courses and information, visit the Distance Learning website.
Who is the DDP contact?
Dr. Michael K. Swan in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. He can be contacted via phone at (509) 335-2899 or email at mswan@wsu.edu.
Who is the advisor or coordinator for the program?
Dr. Michael K. Swan in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. He can be contacted via phone at (509) 335-2899 or email at mswan@wsu.edu.
How many credits are required to complete the MS in Agriculture degree?
A minimum of 30 semester credits are required to complete this graduate degree program.
How long will it take to complete the degree program?
We would expect students in the Master of Science in Agriculture degree program to complete one or two courses per semester, with most students completing the program in 3-6 years (about 6-12 semesters).
How can we tell what online courses are available?
Visit the WSU Center for Distance and Professional Education website for courses available for the fall, spring, and summer semester.
Do we register students any different?
Once admitted to the graduate program students must consult with advisor or committee chair regarding their course schedule for the program and prior to registering for each new semester. They register online at the DDP website.
Is this a thesis or non-thesis degree program?
The MS in Agriculture offers the student a choice of either thesis or non-thesis. If it is a non-thesis program the student is required to complete six credits of practicum instead of a thesis. The practicum contract must be approved at least one semester prior to registering for the course and must be approved by each student's graduate committee.
How many different professors do I need to take courses from to have an approved program plan?
You are required to take courses from at least three different professors to complete the degree program.
How are the courses delivered to students?
Distance Degree Programs offer several different methods of delivery. The delivery format depends on the course materials and course objectives. Students will be required to have access to a computer with an internet connection, e-mail address for all courses, and a VCR and TV to play videotapes for those courses with videotapes.
Do I have to take courses that are only delivered through the Internet or Web?
Select courses are offered only via Internet or Web, with several course delivered through Web-based collaborative learning spaces (e.g., Web-CT) that require a WSU network ID and password. All courses require a basic knowledge of computers and electronic communication for interaction (e.g., e-mail), especially courses delivered online. The DDP staff is available to answer any questions you may have prior to enrolling.
