The program is designed to develop distinguished scholars capable of leading academic, government, and industrial sectors to achieve national food security and sustainable agricultural development.
Program Description
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
Program Overview
To request more information about the program
Contact Admission
King Saud University