Program Requirements for Doctoral Students in Tropical Agriculture

Total Credits Required: 57 credits

  • Core Courses: 6 credits
  • Graduate Seminar: 1 credit
  • Elective Courses: 35 credits
  • Graduate Research (Doctoral Thesis): 15 credits

Note: Up to 15 credits may be transferred from the M.S. program. Students must earn a grade of A or B in all courses.

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EXAMINATIONS

Written Qualifying Exam
  • After completing at least 36 credits, all doctoral students are required to take a written qualifying exam.
  • Purpose: To evaluate the student’s competence.
  • The exam will be prepared by the Graduate Committee of the Program, in collaboration with the student’s Graduate Committee.
  • Students will have two opportunities to pass the exam, following the regulations of the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus.

Oral Candidacy Exam

  • After passing the written qualifying exam, students will present and defend their research proposal in an oral candidacy exam.
  • If the Graduate Committee determines that the student has passed, they will be granted doctoral candidacy.
  • Students will have two opportunities to pass this exam, in accordance with the university’s norms.

Dissertation Requirements

  • The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree is awarded for distinguished academic achievement and a significant, original contribution to the field.
  • All doctoral candidates must prepare an original, publishable dissertation that:
    • Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the topic.
    • Shows the ability to conduct significant research.
    • Effectively communicates the results to the academic community.
  • Upon completing all degree requirements, candidates must successfully defend their dissertation.
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