Courses
The Agricultural & Environmental Chemistry Graduate Group allows Graduate Students to design an academic program that suits their needs and interests. Coursework options are divided into four areas of specialization: analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, biological & toxicological chemistry, and food, fiber & polymer chemistry. From these areas students choose the courses that they are most interested in taking. Sample course tables can be found in the Degree Requirements documents. These tables are simply guidelines for courses in a specified area of interest, and different courses can be taken upon approval by a student’s Academic Adviser. A full list of pre-approved courses can be found on page 23 and 27 of the degree requirements. Please keep in mind that the course and the quarter it is offered is subject to change without prior notice.
Seminars
Ag-Chem has several different seminar programs designed to encourage scientific exchange as well as professional development of students.
- Fall Seminar Series: A weekly program that includes seminars from invited speakers from various disciplines as well as student exit seminars.
- Meet the Faculty Seminar: A special seminar that is organized for first year students where they are introduced to the faculty and their research.
- Winter Colloquium: A uniquely Ag Chem event that is organized by the first year students as a one or two day professional meeting with 15 minute talks by all non-first year students. All students are required to give a minimum of three Colloquium seminars and is a opportunity for students to share their recent research. There are generally two keynote speakers who are invited to address topics of current interest relating to the Graduate Group.
Advancing to Candidacy
Ph.D students advance to candidacy upon completion of all required coursework and successfully completing an oral Qualifying Exam. This generally takes place between the 7th and 9th quarter of a student’s degree. Further details can be found under Degree Requirements. See Graduate Studies for tips about Acing Your Qualifying Exam.