MPHM Program

Join us for a Master in Plant Health Management (MPHM)

Explore the program

The Master in Plant Health Management (MPHM) program at The Ohio State University bridges the gap between advanced scientific research and real-world leadership, preparing you to tackle the global challenges of food security and environmental sustainability. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a working professional, our flexible on-campus and 100% online options allow you to master the complexities of horticulture and crop science, plant pathology, entomology and integrated pest management on your own schedule. Join a network of elite experts, gain high-demand technical skills and become the specialized leader the agricultural industry needs to grow a healthier future.

As an MPHM student you'll gain practical hands-on experience through an internship, independent study, mentored Extension experience or a mentored teaching experience. Projects can be completed with mentors in industry or an Ohio State faculty member.

Here are a few example project concentration areas:

Crop production, management and scouting: Pioneer the future of food security by optimizing crop yields, mastering field scouting and managing large-scale production systems.
Horticulture and landscape production, services and sales: Dive into the business and science behind green spaces, urban agriculture and large-scale plant production.
Ornamentals and floriculture production: Master the art and science of cultivating high-value ornamental crops and flowers for global markets.
Chemical, seed and biotech companies (research and development): Work on the cutting edge of agricultural science, developing the next generation of resilient seeds, traits and crop protection technologies.
Integrated pest management (technical advising, sales and research): Solve complex ecological puzzles by combining biological controls, scouting and targeted treatments to protect crops sustainably.
Animal and plant health inspection: Step into a vital role protecting biosecurity by monitoring insects, diseases and pests, assessing management practices and overseeing crop, food and port inspections.
Agribusiness management, consulting and economics: Combine science with strategy. Lead agricultural enterprises, consult for major firms and solve economic challenges facing the global food supply chain.
Government regulatory agencies: Shape the future of agriculture by directing food safety, navigating regulatory issues and designing policies that protect both consumers and producers.
Industry or commodity associations: Become a voice for the industry by directing research, education, communications, policy development and legislative strategy.
Golf and sports turf management: Manage world-class surfaces, from championship golf courses to professional athletic stadiums, using advanced turfgrass science.
Gardens and arboretums: Curate and manage public green spaces, botanical gardens and historic arboretums, blending conservation with community education.

What you'll study

As a MPHM student you'll complete a minimum of 35 credit hours of graduate work with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. At least 25 credit hours must be earned at The Ohio State University.

Program requirements can grow and change - always be sure to check with your student advisory committee to ensure you are on the right track.

Select 24-25 credit hours

PLNTPTH 5603: Plant Disease Management (3 credit hours)
PLNTPTH 5060: Practical Experiences in Plant Health Plants: Insects and Diseases of Plants (2 credit hours)
- -or- PLNTPTH 5060: Plant Disease Diagnosis (3 credit hours)
ENTMLGY 5600: Principles and Applications of Integrated Pest Management (3 credit hours)
ENTMLGY 5800: Pesticide Science (3 credit hours)
ENR 5270: Soil Fertility (3 credit hours)
HCS 5422: Biology and Management of Weeds and Invasive Plants (3 credit hours)
HCS 5621: Physiology of Cultivated Plants (3 credit hours)
HCS 5887: Introduction to Experimental Design (3 credit hours)
- -or- HCS 8887: Techniques of Experiment al Design (4 credit hours)
Select one seminar during your final semester (1 credit hour)
- PLNTPTH 7300: Plant Health Management Seminar
- ENTMLGY 7300: Plant Health Management Seminar

How to become an MPHM student

We are looking for ambitious minds from a wide range of scientific backgrounds. To put forward a competitive application to The Ohio State University's Graduate School, make sure to gather these core pieces:

A completed degree: You'll need a bachelor’s or professional degree from an accredited institution by your expected enrollment date.
GPA baseline: A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale across all previous undergraduate and graduate work. If you have a GPA below 3.0 please contact our MPHM Director for information about exceptions.
Scientific background: While all majors are eligible, if you're eyeing the MPHM program, we recommend having at least one college-level course in biology, plant biology, microbiology or chemistry.
Personal statement: This is your story. Written entirely by you, it should detail your academic background, your research interests and how an HCS graduate degree aligns with your career goals. Be sure to call out specific research opportunities or faculty advisors you want to work with.
Curriculum vitae (CV): A tight, two-page overview of your contact info, academic history, professional roles, presentations and research experience. Do not hesitate to highlight study abroad trips, student leadership or community service.
Letters of recommendation: Three letters from mentors, professors or supervisors who can vouch for your scholastic abilities, work ethic and professional drive.
English proficiency: International students may be subject to English proficiency requirements.
No GRE required: We value your experience and potential over standardized test scores - the GRE and/or GMAT is not required for admission.