M.S. in Agricultural Science

Entry requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Requirements:

• Applicants must have completed a recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) is required. This translates to approximately 60% or above in the grading system.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.

3. Standardized Tests:

• GRE: A minimum GRE score of 302 is required.

California State University, Fresno, is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. 

1. International Student Scholarship: Fresno State offers merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Dean's Graduate Medal: This scholarship is awarded to the top graduate student from each academic college at Fresno State. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement and contributions to the college.

3. President's Graduate Medal: The President's Graduate Medal is the highest honor for a graduate student at Fresno State. It is awarded to a graduate student who has demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, and service.

4. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship is designed to support underrepresented and economically disadvantaged graduate students. It provides financial assistance and mentoring to help students succeed in their academic pursuits.

5. Athletic Scholarships: Fresno State offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. These scholarships are typically awarded to individuals who excel in specific sports and contribute to the university's athletic programs.

6. External Scholarships: International students can also explore external scholarship opportunities, including those offered by government agencies, private organizations, and foundations in their home countries.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Fresno State may offer scholarships to graduate students in specific fields of study. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

8. Fulbright Scholarships: Fresno State participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Applicants can apply for Fulbright scholarships through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country.

9. Cultural and Exchange Program Scholarships: Fresno State may offer scholarships to international students participating in cultural exchange programs or partnership agreements with specific universities and organizations.

10. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students may have opportunities to work as research or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and/or tuition remission.

Tips for Scholarship Application:

• Applicants should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.
• Strong academic performance, letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement, and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and leadership can enhance scholarship application chances.

Graduates of the M.S. in Agricultural Science program at California State University, Fresno, are well-prepared for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities within the agricultural sector.  

1. Agricultural Research Scientist: Graduates can work in research institutions, agricultural companies, or government agencies, conducting research to improve crop yields, animal health, and sustainable farming practices.

2. Agricultural Extension Agent: Extension agents work directly with farmers and the community, providing guidance on agricultural best practices, pest management, and resource conservation.

3. Agribusiness Manager: Graduates may pursue careers in agribusiness management, overseeing operations in areas such as food production, marketing, sales, and distribution.

4. Crop Consultant: Crop consultants provide expertise on crop selection, disease management, and yield optimization to farmers and agricultural companies.

5. Livestock Manager: Those specializing in animal science can work as livestock managers, overseeing the care and health of livestock in agricultural operations.

6. Agricultural Educator: Graduates can become agricultural educators, teaching at high schools, community colleges, or universities, and inspiring the next generation of agricultural professionals.

7. Environmental Compliance Specialist: Environmental specialists ensure that agricultural operations comply with environmental regulations and sustainable practices.

8. Farm Manager: Farm managers oversee day-to-day operations on farms, ensuring efficient production and resource management.

9. Crop Protection Specialist: Specialists in crop protection work to prevent and manage pests, diseases, and other threats to agricultural crops.

10. Sustainability Coordinator: Graduates can work as sustainability coordinators, helping agricultural organizations implement sustainable practices and reduce their environmental impact.

11. Food Safety Specialist: Food safety specialists ensure that agricultural products meet quality and safety standards, playing a critical role in food production and distribution.

12. Seed Production Manager: Those interested in crop science can pursue careers in seed production, ensuring the quality and availability of agricultural seeds.

13. Government Agricultural Officer: Graduates may work in government agencies at the local, state, or federal level, contributing to agricultural policy development and enforcement.