PhD in Food & Agriculture Sciences

 Upon completion of the program, graduates are expected to demonstrate advanced competencies in the following domains:

Advanced Scientific Knowledge: Mastery of complex biological, chemical, and physical processes within their chosen field (e.g., mechanisms of food toxins or arid land soil characteristics).

Original Research & Inquiry: Ability to design, conduct, and defend an original dissertation that significantly contributes to the field of food or agricultural sciences.

Problem-Solving in Industry: Capacity to identify manufacturing or production problems (e.g., in dairy or bakery industries) and develop practical, scientific solutions to mitigate them.

Technical & Analytical Proficiency: Skill in using advanced instrumentation and technology, such as remote sensing, GIS, or specialized laboratory analysis for food and soil components.

Sustainable Development: Understanding of sustainable agricultural practices and the ability to apply research results to enhance national food and water security.

Communication & Ethics: Mastery of scientific communication for various audiences and a commitment to the highest ethical standards in research and professional conduct.

Master’s Degree: Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant agricultural field (e.g., Food Science, Animal Production, Soil Science) from KSU or an accredited institution.

Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of at least “Very Good” (3.75/5.00) is generally required for doctoral admission.

Educational Background:

• • Food Science/Nutrition: Requires a Master’s degree in a science specialty related to food or human nutrition with a grade not less than 4.0/5.0.
  • Animal Production: Requires a Master’s degree in animal production, poultry science, or a closely related major.
  • Statement of Purpose: A letter describing your research interests and outlining a potential doctoral dissertation proposal.

Recommendation Letters: Two academic letters from professors who have previously taught or supervised you.

Professional Status:

Employer approval is required for applicants who are currently employed.

Admission generally requires full-time registration.

CV: An updated curriculum vitae, preferably highlighting recent publications or patents

PhD in Food Science & Human Nutrition :

Total: 31 Coursework Units + 12 Dissertation Units

First Year – First Semester

Food Chemistry – 2 Credit Hours
Modern Techniques in Food Analysis – 2 Credit Hours
Elective Course (Food Science) – 3 Credit Hours

Total: 7 Credit Hours

First Year – Second Semester

Core Course in Food Components – 3 Credit Hours
Research Tools in Food Science – 3 Credit Hours
Elective Course – 2 Credit Hours

Total: 8 Credit Hours

Second Year – First Semester

Food Toxicology – 2 Credit Hours
Functional Food for Health – 2 Credit Hours
Advanced Specialized Elective – 2 Credit Hours
Advanced Specialized Elective – 2 Credit Hours

Total: 8 Credit Hours

Second Year – Second Semester

Recent Advances in Dairy Processing – 2 Credit Hours
Recent Advances in Meat Processing – 2 Credit Hours
Recent Advances in Bakery Processing – 2 Credit Hours

Total: 6 Credit Hours

Third Year – First Semester

Comprehensive Examination – 0 Credit Hours

Third Year – Second Semester and Beyond

PhD Dissertation – 12 Credit Hours

PhD in Soil Science :

Focus: Arid Land Management & Sustainable Agriculture

First Year – First Semester

Soil Physical Chemistry – 3 Credit Hours
Soil Classification and Evaluation – 3 Credit Hours
Departmental Elective – 3 Credit Hours

Total: 9 Credit Hours

First Year – Second Semester

Selected Topics in Soil Science – 2 Credit Hours
Seminar I – 1 Credit Hour
Departmental Electives – 6 Credit Hours

Total: 9 Credit Hours

Second Year – First Semester

Seminar II – 1 Credit Hour
Departmental Elective – 3 Credit Hours

Total: 4 Credit Hours

Second Year – Second Semester and Beyond

PhD Dissertation (Soil Physics, Soil Microbiology, or Remote Sensing Applications) – Credit Hours Assigned by Department

PhD in Horticultural Sciences :

Total Coursework: 30 Credit Hours

First Year – First Semester

Specialized Horticulture Course I – 3 Credit Hours
Specialized Horticulture Course II – 3 Credit Hours
Research Methodology – 3 Credit Hours

Total: 9 Credit Hours

First Year – Second Semester

Advanced Horticultural Sciences – 3 Credit Hours
Departmental Elective – 3 Credit Hours
Seminar – 1 Credit Hour

Total: 7 Credit Hours

Second Year – First Semester

Advanced Specialized Electives – 7 Credit Hours

Second Year – Second Semester

Advanced Specialized Electives – 7 Credit Hours

Research Phase

PhD Dissertation – Credit Hours Assigned According to University Regulations