Final Comprehensive Examinations

Both written and oral comprehensive examinations are required of all D.P. M. Students. The written examination has three sections: entomology/nematology, plant pathology, and plant/soil science which may be taken independently during the student’s last three semesters in the program at the discretion of the supervisory committee and following completion of all coursework and internships. 

After a student passes all three sections of the final written examination (80% or higher is considered a passing grade), the supervisory committee administers an oral examination that tests the student’s ability to synthesize what was learned in their program of study in order to diagnose and manage plant health problems. A student who fails to pass a comprehensive examination may retake it within 3 months.