COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Horticulture at Colorado State University offers a comprehensive and research-focused program that explores the science and management of plants in agricultural, environmental, and landscape systems. The program provides a wide range of specialized study areas, allowing students to develop expertise in both plant science and practical applications related to food production, sustainability, and human health.Students can study topics such as bioactive plant components, plant antioxidants, and dietary intervention for cancer prevention, which focus on the health benefits of plants and their role in nutrition. Areas like ecophysiology, environmental and stress physiology, and rhizosphere biology examine how plants interact with their environment and respond to different stress conditions. The program also includes applied fields such as floriculture, fruit and vegetable production, greenhouse technology, and turfgrass science, which are essential for agricultural and horticultural industries.In addition, students can explore landscape-related areas such as landscape ecology, ornamental plants, and water conservation techniques like xeriscaping, which emphasize sustainable landscape design and resource management. Specialized topics such as plant tissue culture, germplasm conservation, and crop-focused studies like potato breeding, production, and storage physiology provide advanced technical and research skills. Other areas like enology and viticulture focus on grape production and wine science.Overall, the program combines scientific research, innovation, and practical training to prepare students for careers in agriculture, horticulture, environmental management, research, and related industries.