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Our research in the Department of Horticultural Science bridges the gap between genotype and phenotype, encompassing fundamental genomics, bioinformatics, genetics, biotechnology, and practical plant breeding across diverse horticultural crops in North Carolina and globally. This work produces nutritious foods, environmentally sustainable crops, enhanced products, and economic growth while promoting cleaner ecosystems.
Earning a PhD signifies the recipient's capacity to perform unsupervised, cutting-edge original research and scholarly work. As outlined in the NCSU Graduate Catalog, the degree requires more than completing coursework—it demands proof of deep expertise and scholarly excellence in a specialized discipline. Candidates must validate this through a dissertation presenting novel research findings and by successfully passing comprehensive exams in their specialization and related fields. Admission to the PhD program typically requires BS and MS degrees from accredited institutions, though exceptional students may enter directly after their bachelor's degree with departmental approval.