Bachelor of Plant Pathology at The Ohio State University
Study Plant Pathology at The Ohio State University, a Bachelor degree offered on the Columbus campus in United States of America. This Full Time program is delivered on campus in English and takes approximately 4 years to complete. Students benefit from a structured learning experience designed to build both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The next intake is scheduled for August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Plant Pathology
Plant Pathology
Degree: BS
Campus: Columbus
College: Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Plant pathology, the study of plant disease, is at the forefront of global challenges in food security and food production, environmental quality and sustainability, and advanced bioenergy and bio-based products—the signature areas of the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Plant pathologists specialize in plant health, similar to the way a physician specializes in human health or a veterinarian in animal care. Plants are affected by a variety of disease-causing organisms (pathogens) such as bacteria, fungi, viruses and nematodes that can cause devastating crop losses and damage forests and ecosystems. Invasive diseases such as Dutch elm disease, chestnut blight and sudden oak death have devastated forests and landscapes. Even chocolate production is threatened by the spread of cacao disease in South America.
Get started
Admitted students who indicate their major as plant pathology on their application directly enroll in the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. Each plant pathology student is assigned a faculty advisor who helps the student develop a course plan tailored to the student’s interests and provides mentorship and guidance throughout the program.
Curriculum
The plant pathology curriculum includes a solid background in the sciences augmented by in-depth courses in plant pathology, plant science, biology, microbiology and related areas. Plant pathology majors take a specified set of required courses in biology, chemistry and plant pathology, including courses in microbiology, genetics and soil science. Students can tailor their program to areas of interests. An approved list of electives for the major includes courses from plant pathology, biochemistry, chemistry, soil science, entomology, horticulture and crop science, microbiology, and plant biology.
Students must also complete a minor (12–15 credit hours). Students may select from over 100 minors at Ohio State, although common minors declared by plant pathology majors include environmental science, sustainable agriculture, agribusiness, agronomy, landscape design and management, turfgrass management, and food safety.
Study abroad
The College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences offers several opportunities for students to study abroad with an agricultural focus. Short- and long-term programs enable students to experience an array of cultures and learn about different agricultural systems firsthand.
Internship
Students must complete an internship as part of the plant pathology degree, which can range from work experience in industry to research in a university laboratory. Faculty advisors and academic staff can help students find internships that complement their career goals and interests.
Research
Many plant pathology students become engaged in undergraduate research with faculty on both the Columbus and Wooster campuses. A research thesis option is available to any student with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students who complete a research thesis and fulfill specified requirements can graduate with research distinction. Students have opportunities to present their research at university or local symposia and even national meetings.
Student organizations
Students can join the Plant Health and Resource Management Club (PHARM) for opportunities to become involved in department activities and interact with others that share common interests.
Possible careers
Professionals with expertise in plant pathology are needed to address challenges pertaining to food security, agricultural chemicals, food safety, genetically modified crops, organic agriculture, renewable resources, invasive species and bio-based technologies.
The plant pathology major provides excellent course work and training for students interested in pursuing advanced studies in plant pathology, plant biology and related disciplines. A master’s degree provides additional training and skills students need in order to work as research technicians, educators or in industry. For those interested in becoming a research manager or university faculty, a PhD is usually required. Graduates with strong academic credentials may be eligible for graduate research or teaching assistantships that provide living and educational expenses while pursuing a graduate degree.
Many plant pathology graduates work in research or diagnostic laboratories in the academic or private sector. Graduates also work for government agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture, state departments of agriculture or regulatory agencies, while others may teach or work in Extension outreach.
Salary estimates
Salaries are variable depending on a graduate’s experience, background and area of specialization, with an average starting annual salary between $30,000 and $40,000. Students with graduate degrees can expect to earn more than graduates with bachelor’s degrees.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Plant Pathology at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Plant Pathology at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Plant Pathology at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus