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Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences Graduate Student Handbook

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CSES Graduate Student Handbook

Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville,  AR  72701

Revised January, 2001

• Introduction to Graduate Student Handbook
• Guidelines for Students Seeking Advanced Degrees
• Responsibilities within the Graduate Program
• University Services and Programs

Departmental Faculty
The study of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences includes almost every aspect of land use. Soil scientists specialize in soil chemistry, fertility, microbiology or physics; fertilizers; conservation, land use and water resources; soil mapping, surveying or testing; reclamation of lands; recycling wastes; and other scientific ecological and practical matters that deal with soil resources. In relation to crops, agronomists (crop scientists) work in areas of plant breeding, genomics, genetics, physiology, weed science, crop management, forage and pasture production, agricultural chemicals, plan t nutrition,  or other studies concerned with agronomic crop plants such as soybean, rice, cotton, wheat, grain sorghum, corn, or forage and many other food and fiber crops.

Robert K. Bacon (Ph.D., Purdue, Plant Genetics and Breeding). Dept. Head — Fayetteville, AR. Conducts research in breeding and production of small grain crops such as wheat.  Varietal development and testing are an important part of his research.

Merle M. Anders, (Ph.D. University of HI, Agronomy and Soil Science) RREC, Stuttgart, AR. Develops system scale recommendations that maintain the profitability and sustainability of rice based cropping systems.

Fred M. Bourland (Ph.D., TX A&M, Cotton Genetics and Breeding) Director, NEREC, Keiser, AR. Is responsible for the development of improved cotton lines and varieties adapted to Arkansas and management of the cotton crop.

Kristofor R. Brye (Ph.D., U. of WI, Soil Physics) Fayetteville, AR. Research will focus on the effects of land application of poultry litter on in-situ nutrient leaching and the effects of land use and management practices on soil physical, chemical, and biological properties related to soil quality and sustainability.

Nilda Burgos (Ph.D., U.  of AR, Weed Science)  Fayetteville, AR. Conducts research in weed physiology with emphasis on herbicide resistance.

Pengyin Chen (Ph.D., VA Pol. Inst., Plant Breeding/Genetics)  Fayetteville, AR. Develop conventional, Roundup Ready, and specialty soybean varieties adapted to various production systems and environments in Arkansas. Develop and implement a practical and feasible marker-assisted breeding program that accelerates and enhances soybean variety/germplasm development.

Paul A. Counce (Ph.D., U. of GA, Rice Production and Physiology) RREC, Stuttgart, AR. Emphasizes physiological studies in rice.

Tommy Daniel (Ph.D., U. of WI, Soil Science and Water Chemistry) Fayetteville, AR. Is responsible for evaluating impacts of agricultural practices on surface and ground water and, where found, devising management techniques that minimize degradation in water quality.

James W. Gibbons (Ph.D. U. of AR, Plant Breeding and Genetics)  RREC, Stuttgart, AR. Conducts research on improved breeding methods and on new rice lines with improved grain and milling yields, disease resistance, cooking and nutritional characteristics and desirable plant types.

David E. Longer (Ph.D., Purdue, Seed Technology) Fayetteville, AR. Conducts studies in the area of seed technology and seed production with emphasis on quality and vigor enhancement. Additional research emphasis is placed on new crop species introductions.

John D. Mattice (Ph.D., U of AR) Fayetteville, AR.  Conducts studies in the area of Pesticide Residues.

J. Scott McConnell (Ph.D., TX A&M, Cotton Fertility)  SEREC, Monticello, AR. Conducts research primarily on the effect of fertilization, irrigation and tillage on cotton yield with special emphasis on irrigation method, minimum tillage and soil properties.

David M. Miller (Ph.D., U. GA, Soil Chemistry) Fayetteville, AR. Specializes in the application of physical chemistry to soils. His interests include surface chemistry, reclamation of soils with poultry litter and phosphorus chemistry.

Karen A. K. Moldenhauer (Ph.D., IA State, Rice Breeding) RREC, Stuttgart, AR. Conducts research on improved breeding methods and on new rice lines with improved grain and milling yields, disease resistance, cooking and nutritional characteristics and desirable plant types.

Morteza Mozaffari (Ph.D., U of DE, Soil Science & Environmental Quality) Director of Soil Test in Marianna, AR. Research focuses on improving soil testing and fertilizer recommendations as related to environmentally important elements. Utilization of manure, sludge and industrial waste and by products as sources and soil amendments and their effect on surface and groundwater quality.

John H. Muir (Ph.D., U. of NE, Soil Fertility) ASU, State University, AR. Studies fertilization and lime practices for agronomic crops.

Richard J. Norman (Ph.D., U. of IL, Rice Culture and Nitrogen Fertility) Fayetteville, AR. Investigates different cultural practices used in Arkansas rice production and how they influence the nitrogen fertilizer requirement and nitrogen balance in rice soils.

Lawrence R. Oliver (Ph.D., Purdue, Weed Science) Fayetteville, AR. Is primarily concerned with weed interference and control in soybean production.  He has made special efforts in identifying and surveying weed problems in Arkansas.

Derrick M. Oosterhuis (Ph.D., UT State, Crop Physiology) Fayetteville, AR. Studies photosynthesis, carbon and nitrogen assimilation, growth regulation and plant-water relations of cotton and other crops and their responses to environmental stress.

J. Mike Phillips (Ph.D., U of AR, Forage Management)  SWREC, Hope, AR. Is involved in forage studies with tall fescue and bermudagrass and fertility studies predominantly with tall fescue, bermudagrass and alfalfa.

Larry C. Purcell (Ph.D., U. of FL, Soybean Physiology) Fayetteville, AR. Studies physiological and biochemical responses of soybean and other seed legumes to environmental stresses and is particularly interested in the effect of drought on nitrogen fixation and nitrogen metabolism.

E. Moye Rutledge (Ph.D., OH State, Pedology) Fayetteville, AR. Works in surveying and classifying soils, suitability of soils for various uses, especially effluent renovation through septic tank filter fields.

Mary C. Savin (Ph.D., U. of Rhode Island, Biological Sciences) Fayetteville, AR. Conducts research in the area of microbial ecology and soil biology.

Guangyao Sheng (Ph.D., MI St. U, Soil Chemistry) Fayetteville, AR. Conducts research in the area of assessment and remediation of ground and surface waters contaminated with organic chemicals and the impact of organics on aquatic and soil biological communities.

Nathan A. Slaton (Ph.D., U. of AR, Soil Fertility) Fayetteville, AR. Research will focus on crop nutrient requirements, soil-test correlation and calibration, nutrient related environmental concerns and development of improved analytical methods for use by the Soil Test Diagnostic Lab in Fayetteville and the Eastern Arkansas  Soil Test Laboratory in Marianna.

Kenneth Smith (Ph.D., OK St. U, Crop Physiology) Monticello, AR. He develops weed management systems for cotton, rice, corn, and soybeans with emphasis on Southeast Arkansas.

Vibha Srivastava (Ph.D., J.N. University, New Delhi, India, Life Sciences) Fayetteville, AR. Works on developing molecular tools for gene transfer in crop plants and developing gene tagging system for rice.

James. McD. Stewart (Ph.D., OK State, Cotton Biotechnology) Fayetteville, AR. Researches gene expression and genetic engineering in cotton. His work includes introgression of exotic wild germplasm into cultivated cotton and molecular transformation of cotton with selected genes.

Charles P. West (Ph.D., IA State, Forage Physiology) Fayetteville, AR. Works in forage physiology, nutrition and quality to improve pastures and forage species in Arkansas with particular emphasis on endophytic fungus in fescue.

Charles (Chuck) E. Wilson, Jr. (Ph.D., U of AR, Soil Fertility)  SEREC, Monticello, AR. Conducts research on salinity problems and plant nutrition of rice.

Duane C. Wolf (Ph.D., U. of CA, Riverside, Soil Microbiology) Fayetteville, AR. Studies soil microbiology in relation to such processes as degradation of herbicides, symbiotic nitrogen fixation and adsorption of metals by microorganisms.

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Introduction
           
Faculty and students in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences are concerned with food and fiber production and with the use, conservation, and protection of soil and water resources upon which all life depends.  Students can enter the graduate program in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences at the University of Arkansas with undergraduate degrees in almost any other science. Some previous education in crops, soils, or the environmental sciences is beneficial to the graduate student, but an undergraduate major in such areas as chemistry, physics, biology, plant, soil or environmental sciences can form a good background for advanced studies.

The Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences at the University of Arkansas offers numerous study areas. The student may concentrate in either crop science or soil science with specialization in plant breeding and genetics, crop physiology, crop production, weed science, pesticide residues, biotechnology, seed technology, forage production, soil chemistry, soil classification, soil fertility, soil microbiology, and soil physics. These areas of specialization may be combined with integrated pest management, ecology, environmental sciences, water resources, geographical information systems and natural resource database management or land use and management. In addition, the student may specialize in one of the major crops grown in Arkansas:  rice, soybean, cotton, wheat and other small grains, or forages. The selection of the major professor and research problem will be determined by the area of interest.

When the graduate degree is complete, opportunities for employment will depend upon the area of specialization.  Positions are available with federal and state governments, with colleges and universities, and with private industry. Attractive government positions may include work with such agencies as the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Environmental Protection Agency, or other federal agencies which deal with agronomic and environmental  issues. State and local governments also need our graduates in crops, soil, and water management and in new areas of urban agronomy. Colleges and universities hire our graduates in teaching, research, and extension positions. Often the extension position is associated with a USDA governmental position.  Fertilizer, pesticide, and seed companies, as well as environmental industries, offer attractive positions to graduates. Judicious planning can allow the student to aim for a particular career without over-specialization.

A. General
Admission to the Graduate School is a prerequisite to becoming a graduate degree candidate in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences. Admission procedures and requirements are outlined in detail in the Graduate School Catalog. Application forms for admission to the Graduate School can be obtained from the Department or from:

     Graduate School Admissions Office
     119 Ozark Hall
     University of Arkansas
     Fayetteville, AR  72701
     501/575-4401

This admission form should be returned to the Graduate School Admissions Office at the above address and not to the Department. The Graduate School will process all documents and forward acceptance to the Department.  Consult the Graduate School Catalog or  Web page at www.uark.edu/depts/gradinnfo/public_html/handbookmain.htm for additional details on admission requirements. With approval of admission to the Graduate School and assignment to an available advisor in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences, the student is admitted to the Graduate Program.

In addition to contacting the Graduate School, if the student is requesting an assistantship he/she is required to contact the Department directly. Most prospective students do this at the same time they send in their applications to the Graduate School; however, it can be done at any time. Three letters of recommendation should be sent to the Department if applying for an assistantship.

When all information has been received by the department (either directly from the student or from the Graduate School), the documents will be reviewed by the Departmental Graduate Committee. This Committee will complete the following:

1. Screen applicants for advanced degrees in Agronomy to insure that they meet minimum acceptable academic standards.

2. Review the applications and make recommendations to the Department Head for acceptance or rejection with appropriate reasons. The letter of recommendation to the Department Head should also contain information on (a) availability of advisor and  (b) suitability for  graduate studies. After careful consideration of the student's records, which in special cases may include oral and/or written examinations, the committee will make one of three recommendations to the Department Head.  The committee recommends:
   a. That the student be accepted into the Department as a prospective candidate for an advanced degree;
   b. That the student be accepted into the Department with recommendation of courses regarding deficiencies; or
   c. That the student not be accepted as a prospective candidate for an advanced degree.

3. Refer any Ph.D. applicants, who have received both the B.S. and M.S. degrees in Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences at the University of Arkansas, to the departmental graduate faculty for their review and recommendations.

After the student has been accepted by the Graduate School, approved by the Departmental Graduate Committee and assigned an advisor, admittance to the program will be complete.

To maintain graduate student standing in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences, the student must comply with policies and procedures of both the Graduate School and the Department. The student is responsible for adhering to regulations outlined by the Graduate School Catalog and those stated in these departmental policies.

B. Minimum Requirements (All GPA's on a 4-point scale)

1. Graduate School
   a. Regular Admission
To be eligible for regular admission to the Graduate School, a student must earn at least a 2.7 cumulative grade-point average on all coursework attempted prior to receipt of the bachelor's degree or have earned at least a 3.2 cumulative grade-point average on the 60 hours immediately preceding receipt of the bachelor's degree.  Applicants not having these minimums may be admitted to "Regular Admission" by presenting to the Dean of the Graduate School a satisfactory score (i.e. 1500) on the Aptitude Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), a satisfactory score (i.e. 50) on the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) or the Graduate Management Admission Test.
   b. Conditional Admission (less than 2.7 GPA)
If an applicant does not meet the above criteria for regular admission to the Graduate School, he/she may be admitted on a 12-hour conditional basis. To be eligible for admission to the Graduate School under the 12-hour condition, a student must have a recommendation for admission from the Department Head, approval of the Graduate Dean, and no less than a 2.3 GPA, or at least a 3.0 for the last 60 hours of undergraduate work. To remove this condition and achieve regular graduate school admission status, the student must earn a 2.85 average on the first 12 hours of graduate-level work taken for the degree program. A memorandum to the Graduate School from the Department Head or faculty advisor is necessary to initiate regular admission after successful completion of these 12 hours.
   c. Readmission or Termination
No student will be readmitted to the Graduate School if he/she has below a 2.7 cumulative average on 12 or more credits of graduate level coursework (An incomplete will be considered an F).

2. Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences
    a. Regular and Conditional Admission
For regular and conditional admission to the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences, grade-point requirements are the same as those for the Graduate School.  The Departmental Graduate Committee reviews all applications and suggests appropriate advisors and, where appropriate, additional deficiency coursework.  The Department Head must approve admission into the Department.
    b. Probation or Termination
If a graduate student's cumulative GPA on graduate course work falls below a 2.85, the student will be placed on academic probation.  The student will subsequently be dismissed from the departmental graduate program if the cumulative GPA is not raised to 2.85 or above on the next 9 hours of graded graduate course work required by the student's program.

3. International Students
A minimum TOEFL score of 550 is required for admission into a graduate program of study.  International students should visit the International Student Office in Room 104 of Holcombe Hall (phone 575-5003) before registration to clarify any points related to residence in the U.S. and status as a student.

C. Assistantships and Other Financial Aid

The Graduate School has adopted general policies for graduate assistantships which govern the Appointments and Obligations of the University, the Graduate School and the graduate assistants. The departmental regulations follow these Graduate School policies.

1. Eligibility
The Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences offers research and teaching assistantships to provide service to the department and to help graduate students finance their educations. To retain an assistantship the graduate student must maintain a grade-point average of 3.0.

The Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences accepts the university-wide, minimal requirements for admitting students to graduate study.  However, the department continues to affirm and strives to achieve its long-stated goal of requiring applicants to attain a 3.0 undergraduate GPA in order to be appointed either to a graduate, research, or teaching assistantship.  Nevertheless, applicants will be considered on an individual basis and the following exceptions may be allowed for appointment:

   a. Applicants presenting a cumulative GPA between 2.75 and 3.0 may be considered for appointment if the last 60 hours of undergraduate credit are 3.0 or above.  In exceptional cases, satisfactory scores on the GRE, MAT, or the Graduate Management Admission test may be used in lieu of this 60-hour requirement.  Alternatively, the department head may elect to utilize a condition of the student earning a "B" (3.0) average on the first 9 hours of graduate level work taken for the degree program before appointment is made to an assistantship.
   b. Applicants presenting a cumulative GPA below 2.75 may not be considered for appointment, either to a graduate, teaching, or research assistantship.  Such applicants may, however, be admitted to study in the Department under the 12-hour condition and with permission from the Department Head. These students need to make their own financial arrangements in collaboration with their faculty advisor. Removal of the 12-hour condition is required before appointment to an assistantship can be made.

2. Obligations
   a. University Release
Acceptance of an assistantship constitutes a contract agreement with the University of Arkansas and commits the student not to accept another offer after April 15 without first obtaining a written release from the University Graduate School. The University of Arkansas is signatory to the following resolution of the Council of Graduate Schools of the United States regarding Graduate Scholars, Fellows, Trainees, and Assistants:
"Acceptance of an offer of financial aid (such as graduate scholarship, fellowship, traineeship, or assistantship) for the next academic year by an actual or prospective graduate student completes an agreement which both student and graduate school expect to honor. In those instances in which the student accepts the offer before April 15, and subsequently desires to withdraw, the student may submit in writing a resignation of the appointment at any time through April 15. However, an acceptance given or left in force after April 15 commits the student not to accept another offer without first obtaining written release from the institution to which a commitment has been made. Similarly, an offer by an institution after April 15 is conditional on presentation by the student of the written release from any previously accepted offer. It is further agreed by the institutions and organizations subscribing to above Resolution that a copy of this Resolution should accompany every scholarship, fellowship, traineeship, and assistantship offer."
   b. GPA and Termination
The Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences requirement for renewal of an assistantship is a cumulative GPA of 3.0. Students falling below this cumulative level during the course of study may not retain appointment on any assistantship. A student may be removed from a half-time appointment and placed on probation for one semester. If the student raises his cumulative GPA to 3.0, his appointment may be reinstated.  If the student does not attain a 3.0 GPA in graduate credit for those course hours, his appointment is permanently terminated. Termination of graduate assistantships is automatic upon graduation. No provisions are made to employ an assistant beyond the graduation date of the semester in which the student completes his/her degree. Research assistants are considered full-time employees and their appointments extend to the end of their annual contracts.
   c. Registration
Once the student has been admitted to the Graduate School and the Department, the next task is to register for classes. A schedule of classes for each semester can be acquired from any dean's office, or from the Office of the Registrar, HUNT 146, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701. Brief descriptions of courses and prerequisites are found in the Graduate Catalog and on line at www.uark.edu/depts/agronomy/grinstr.html.  Consult with the major advisor and Graduate Committee for the appropriate courses for the semester.

When the student arrives to begin his/her graduate studies program, he/she should go to the departmental main office. Several procedures need to be done before registration. Out-of-state students need to apply for Arkansas residency. If working on an assistantship, the student must file a Verification of Intent to Register form.  The Administrative Assistant will ensure that the student has all necessary information.

Each subsequent semester of the student’s program he/she will need to complete a Verification of Intent to Register and other applicable forms. He/She will also need to comply with deadlines for registration, fee waivers, and fee payments. To hold an assistantship the student must be registered continuously for all semesters and summer terms. If the student should arrive in mid-session, he/she should file the Verification of Intent to Register form immediately and register for the next possible semester or summer term.  A student cannot be paid as an assistant without fulfilling these obligations.  Watch for announcements on times and procedures governing preregistration and open registration.

3. Appointments
    a. Half-Time Graduate Assistants (Research)
Students on graduate research assistantship appointments are required to register as follows:

6 hours fall/spring semesters (maximum is 10 hours)

3 hours (with a maximum of 4) for each 5-week summer session.  If appointment is made during any of the summer sessions, registration for 3 hours is required for any remaining sessions.

Out-of-state tuition is waived for students on half-time graduate assistant appointments. In-state tuition fees are paid for these students from the same account from which their stipend is paid.
    b. Half-Time Graduate Assistants (Teaching)
The department offers half-time graduate teaching assistantships for 9-month appointments to assist in teaching the introductory crops and soils courses. For students interested in teaching, these assistantships provide an excellent opportunity to obtain teaching experience and to document such experience on the resume for future reference. Usually, students can be transferred from teaching assistantships to research responsibilities during the summer, which allows for continuous income over a 12-month period. Enrollment requirements are the same as for graduate research assistants.
    c. Three-Quarter Time Graduate Assistants
Students holding three-quarter-time Graduate Assistantships must enroll in 6 hours graduate-level work each semester and full summer term. (Maximum of 6 hours coursework, up to 10 hours total including research thesis hours.)

Students on these appointments must complete two consecutive semesters with a minimum of 6 hours each in order to satisfy the residence requirement if they are pursuing the Ph.D. degree.

Out-of-state tuition is waived for students on three-quarter-time graduate assistant appointments. In-state tuition fees are paid for these students from the same account from which their stipend is paid.
    d. Full-Time, Degree-Track Research Specialists
Research Specialists on full-time, degree-track appointment have enrollment restrictions.
    e. Dual Registrants
A student who is appointed as a graduate assistant while  dually enrolled as an undergraduate and a graduate student, must register for a minimum of 6 semester hours of graduate credit during the semester on a graduate assistantship. Dual registrants who do not earn these minimum credits while on a graduate assistant appointment or who do not attain a 3.00 graduate cumulative GPA while on such appointment, are not eligible for reappointment to a graduate assistantship.

Permission to appoint a dual registrant to a graduate assistantship must be requested in writing from and be granted by the Dean of the Graduate School.

4. Maximum Time for Graduate Assistantships
The following time limits do not include summer school sessions but do include the semester in which an assistantship begins even if it begins in mid-semester.

M.S. 4 semesters
Ph.D. 8 semesters (beyond the M.S.)

5. Tuition Refund Policy for Graduate Assistants
When a graduate assistant resigns or is terminated from his/her assistantship appointment, the tuition or fee account which paid the fees for that assistant will receive a refund proportional to the length of time remaining on the appointment during the current semester.

In addition, a graduate assistant who resigns or is terminated from his/her assistantship appointment, but who does not withdraw from the University, is required to pay the University tuition and fees for the remaining proportion of the current semester.

6. Employment Responsibilities
   a. Assistants are expected to be available for work each working day unless on leave. To be absent without approval can create problems with insurance and with emergency communications. See section on "Responsibilities of the Graduate Student."
   b. Regulations for leave privileges differ for research specialists, graduate assistants, and teaching assistants. University of Arkansas employees are all provided official University holidays. Note that some student holidays such as Spring Break or Dead Day are not official holidays for 12 month employees. Check for other leave privileges with the departmental office.
   c. Research Specialists who have not used all their official leave time when their appointment ends will receive compensation for the leave time accrued.  Check  the current status at the main departmental office.

7. Other Financial Aid
Whether or not a student has an assistantship, he/she may be interested in other special programs and scholarships. Graduate students are eligible for various kinds of support through federally funded programs.  Occasionally, other scholarships or grants are  awarded to graduate students. Funds for such grants fluctuate with contributors. Minority scholarships or fellowships are often available. Applications may be secured from and any questions directed to Financial Aid Office, Room 104 Hunt Hall, Fayetteville, AR  72701 (575-3806) or from the Graduate School. A limited number of Graduate School Fellowships are available for attracting exceptional Ph.D. students. The departmental office also has a file on scholarships available.

The Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences has established a graduate student scholarship in honor of the late Dr. Arthur E. Spooner. The objective of the award is to provide the recipient an academic and professional experience through exposure to his or her field in the areas of extension, industry, and academe.  Any graduate student in Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences shall be eligible to apply for the Spooner Scholar Award after at least two full semesters of graduate work. Grades, intellectual aggressiveness, and leadership potential shall be the criteria for selection, and the departmental Graduate Committee shall choose the recipient from those recommended by their major professors.

Other forms of financial aid can be realized if the graduate student takes advantage of his eligibility for Arkansas residency, membership in the UARK Federal Credit Union, and other services offered by the university to students and employees. Information on university services is available from the Graduate Catalog, and the student will receive other brochures or fliers during registration procedures.

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Guidelines for Students Seeking Advanced Degrees

A. Master of Science

1. Thesis Option
Students seeking the master's degree will normally pursue the thesis option.

   a. After admission to the Graduate School and acceptance by the Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences Department, the student will be assigned to a major professor.  The major professor, in consultation with the student and with the approval of the Head of the Department, will set up a graduate advisory committee of at least four members (in addition to the major professor) at the first practical opportunity (e.g. within the first semester).  The committee will consist of graduate faculty members representing both the areas of Crops and Soils and at least one member from a relevant field outside the Department. The composition of the student's graduate committee may be changed with the written approval of the Department Head.
The Head of the Department will be an ex officio (by virtue of office) member of all committees.  The student or major professor must contact the prospective committee members to determine whether those faculty are willing to serve on the student's committee.
   b. The student's graduate committee will serve as an advisory committee for the student's graduate program and as the thesis and oral examining committee.  The committee will be informed, from time to time, of the progress being made.  Major changes in the study course or research must be done in consultation with the committee members.
   c. The major professor will, at the earliest opportunity, call a meeting of the student and committee. The M.S. student should present a tentative outline of the course work (minimum of 24 course hours and six thesis hours) and a research proposal on the objectives and procedures involved in the research. The committee will establish a definite plan of study and research at this time or, if necessary, in a second such meeting.
   d. An outline of the student's plan of study (i.e., Memorandum of Courses) will be completed by the student and major professor, and copies should be forwarded to the Head of the Department, Graduate School, and members of the committee for their files.
   e. The thesis should be sent to the student's graduate committee at least two weeks prior to the defense date.  If a committee member deems the thesis or dissertation not ready for defense, the committee member should tell the major professor prior to the defense meeting and, if appropriate, a new date for the defense should be scheduled.

The Masters oral exam includes the thesis defense and a comprehensive examination of the student's knowledge in crop, soil, and environmental sciences.

All regulations of the Graduate School must be followed.  To avoid later delays, it is a good practice to check with the Graduate School when questions arise. The Guide for Preparing Theses and Dissertations can be purchased in the University of Arkansas Bookstore.

2. Non-thesis Option
Non-Thesis option - Minimum of 33 semester hours of course work as designated by the student’s graduate advisory committee.  The student will be given an oral and/or written examination over all course work to be completed for the degree. The non-thesis option is considered a terminal degree in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences.

3. M.S. Timetable
  a. General
   1) Minimum residence = 30 weeks
   2) Maximum time allowed for M.S. work = 6 consecutive calendar years
  b. Semester I
   1) Select committee members
   2) Present research or thesis proposal and proposed coursework
   3) Submit Memorandum of Courses to Department
   4) Submit Master’s Program Advisory Committee to Graduate School
  c. Semester II, III, etc.
   1) Continue coursework
   2) Proceed with research
   3) File Master's Thesis Committee form 1 semester prior to comprehensive exam
   4) File Master’s Thesis Title form 3 months prior to comprehensive exam
  d. Final Semester
   1) Application for degree
   2) Obtain Master's calendar for current year
   3) Present Departmental seminar
   4) Submit thesis to committee a minimum of 2 weeks prior to comprehensive exam
   5) Comprehensive exam a minimum of 2 weeks prior to graduation
   6) Submit Record of Progress to Graduate School
   7) Obtain approval of thesis from committee and the Graduate School
   8) Submit final copies of thesis to Graduate School (2) and Departmental Office [1 for campus students and 2 for Altheimer students (1 for campus and 1 for Altheimer Lab)] a minimum of 1 week prior to graduation

B. Doctor of Philosophy

1. Guidelines for the Committee and the Student
   a. "Students who wish to become candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy are expected to complete work equivalent to the requirements for the master's degree, and must file a Declaration of Intent with the Dean of the Graduate School upon registration for their first semester of graduate work beyond the master's degree or its equivalent" (Graduate Catalog).
   b. After the student has declared his/her intentions (Declaration of Intent Form) and indicated an area of study, a committee of five or more members will be appointed from graduate faculty to evaluate the candidate's preparation and fitness for further graduate work. The major professor, in consultation with the department head and the prospective candidate, will choose a list of committee members to be submitted to the Graduate School.
   c. The student's committee includes the major professor and two additional qualified members from the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences faculty; a minimum of two other qualified graduate faculty outside the College of Agriculture or one from outside the College of Agriculture and another from a related field outside the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences but within the College of Agriculture. A prospective candidate specializing in soil science has at least one committee member in crops; a candidate specializing in crop science has at least one committee member in soils. The composition of the student's graduate committee may be changed with the written approval of the Department Head. The Department Head is an ex-officio member of all Ph.D. committees.
Following acceptance of a student as a prospective  candidate for the doctoral degree, the major professor must call a meeting of the advisory committee, including the Head of the Department and the student. The meeting should convene at the earliest opportunity within the first or second semester. At the first meeting, the candidate will present an outline of the proposed course work and the objectives and procedures involved in the dissertation problem. The members of the committee will often offer suggestions, both in terms of the courses and the research problem planned. A definite plan of study and research is established at the first meeting or, if necessary, at subsequent committee meetings.
   d. No minimum number of course hours is required; however, a minimum of 18 dissertation hours is required.  The candidate's course work plan is formulated by his/ her graduate committee in agreement with Graduate School requirements.
   e. The term used for the written and oral examinations for doctoral students will be candidacy examinations as specified by the Graduate School. Preliminary examinations may be given to a student to assist the doctoral advisor and/or doctoral advisory committee in selecting coursework and the like.

Doctoral students will take candidacy examinations within 2 to 3 years after starting their degree program for half-time graduate assistants and within 3 to 4 years after starting their degree program for three-quarter-time graduate assistants and full-time research specialists.
Doctoral students will complete all written candidacy examinations within ten consecutive working days.

Written doctoral candidacy examinations may be administered by any appropriate graduate faculty member. If a graduate faculty member administers a written examination and is not on the student's committee, that faculty member will be invited as a non-voting participant to the doctoral oral examination.

Doctoral students must pass all five written candidacy examinations before they can take the oral candidacy examination.

The doctoral oral candidacy examination will be held within one month of completion of the written candidacy examinations. The oral candidacy examination will be graded as "passed," "adjourned" (reconvene at a later date as decided by the committee), or "failed."
   f. All Ph.D. students must make sure that they meet the residency requirements as outlined in the Graduate School Catalog. For full-time research specialists the memorandum must be filed with the Graduate School.
The residency requirement for Ph.D. students with more than a 50% appointment as found in the Graduate School Catalog. Every full-time research specialist must be certain these guidelines are followed.

A Ph.D. candidate must meet the residency requirement by first filing a Declaration of Intent and then completing a minimum of 6 hours of coursework or dissertation research for two consecutive semesters during the appointment. A plan for completing this requirement must be filed for approval by the Graduate Dean in advance of satisfying residency requirements. The graduate student is responsible for making sure this plan is filed at the beginning of their program.

The Graduate School has agreed to allow filing of residence plans for students who have already met the requirement as well as for those who are beginning their residency. It is imperative for the candidate to prepare and file this plan as soon as possible.

   g. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required but is encouraged by the Department.  It may be used by the committee in developing the student's program.
   h. The dissertation should be sent to the student's graduate committee at least 2 weeks prior to the defense date.  If a committee member deems the dissertation not ready for defense, the committee member should tell the major professor prior to the defense meeting and, if appropriate, a new date for the defense should be scheduled.

Procedures must be adhered to as outlined in the regulations of the Graduate School. The Guide in Preparing Theses and Dissertations can be purchased in the University Bookstore.

2. Ph.D. Timetable
   a. General
    1) Minimum residency requirements = 2 consecutive semesters with 10 or more graduate credit hours per semester
    2) Maximum time to degree = 7 consecutive calendar years
   b. Semester I
    1) Declaration of Intent in order to enter Ph.D. program, file first semester
    2) Residency requirement
     i. Non-research specialists, begins with filing of Declaration of Intent
     ii. Research specialists, file Declaration of Intent and must also file memo with the Graduate School
    3) Select committee members
    4) Submit proposal and proposed coursework
   c. Semester II, III, etc.
    1) File Doctoral Advisory Committee Member Form a minimum of 1 year prior to oral exam
    2) File Announcement of Doctoral Dissertation Title a minimum of 1 year prior to final exam
    3) Candidacy examination:
A) Written - Within 2-3 years after starting for half time GA. Within 3-4 years after starting for three-quarter-time GA and RA. To be completed within a two week period.

B) Oral - Within one month of completing written candidacy exam
   d. Final Semester
    1) Application for degree
    2) Obtain Ph.D. calendar for the current year
    3) Present departmental seminar
    4) Submit dissertation with abstract to committee a minimum of 2 weeks prior to defense date
    5) Notice of final exam to Dean of Graduate School (include abstract and memo announcing date, time and
     place of final exam)10 days prior to final exam
    6) Take final exam a minimum of 3 weeks prior to graduation date
    7) Obtain final committee approval of dissertation
    8) File Record of Progress of Doctoral Program with the Graduate School (obtained from the Graduate School)
    9) Obtain Graduate School approval of dissertation
  10) Submit final copies of thesis to Graduate School (2) and Departmental Office [1 for campus students - 2 for Altheimer students (1 for campus and 1 for Altheimer Lab)] a minimum of 1 week prior to graduation
ADDITIONAL FORMS MUST BE COMPLETED AT GRADUATE SCHOOL UPON SUBMISSION OF FINAL DISSERTATION.

C. Additional Policies Governing Candidates for Advanced Degrees

1. For those students who have received the B.S. and M.S. degrees in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences at the University of Arkansas and who apply for the Ph.D. in the Department, the application must be:
   a. Recommended by the student's graduate committee;
   b. Reviewed by the departmental graduate committee which will make a recommendation to the Department Head and the graduate faculty;
   c. Approved by Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences graduate faculty.
   d. Approved by Department Head.
The student applicant will be informed of the decision at each stage and retain the option of withdrawing his or her request at any stage.

For students who have received their M.S. degree (and not their B.S. degree) in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences at the University of Arkansas and who wish to pursue their Ph.D. in the same Department, the following are required:
   a. Positive written recommendation from the student's M.S. committee with brief documentation of the deliberations;
   b. Approval by Department Head. If necessary, in borderline cases, the Department Head will seek advice from the Departmental Graduate Committee.

2. Where the M.S. degree is to be by-passed, the following criteria will be used to judge the qualifications of the student to progress directly to the Ph.D. degree:
   a. Evidence of outstanding scholastic ability and achievement;
   b. Evidence of writing ability;
   c. Evidence of ability to carry out independent study or research; and
   d. Evidence of academic or professional experience outside the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences.
   e. Approval by graduate faculty of the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences.
   f. Approval by Department Head.
These criteria are applied to all students considered for by-passing the M.S. degree, regardless of the source of the baccalaureate degree.

3. Policies Governing Departmental Seminar
   a. All faculty and graduate students in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences must attend weekly Departmental seminars as a professional responsibility. Undergraduate students are encouraged to attend.
   b.
1) Each candidate for either the M.S. or the Ph.D. degree is required to give a regularly scheduled departmental seminar toward the end of the degree program.
2) The degree candidate is responsible for scheduling his/her seminar.
3) No grade or credit hours will be awarded for departmental seminar presentations, but critique of the presentation may be helpful to the student and his/her committee.
   c. The course entitled Scientific Presentations (CSES 5103) is recommended for all graduate students.  Students are encouraged to take the course early in their degree program in order to prepare for committee meetings, for professional meetings, and for the departmental seminar.

4. Change of Objectives, Status, or Termination of Admission
   a. Modification of Status
Students who wish to alter specific objectives as set forth for their admission, registration, or assistantship status must, along with approval from their major advisor and advisory committee, process whatever actions or papers are needed for that change. These changes may include modifications in status such as conditional admission to regular admission, degree status to non-degree status, a research assistantship to a graduate assistantship; simple changes in registration from audit to credit or dropping and adding a course; or numerous other changes in  status. Any such modification in the status must be recorded in the Graduate School office and the Departmental office not just with the student’s major advisor. The student must be certain that the process of change is complete and recorded before operating under a new status.
   b. Termination of Graduate Standing
A graduate student's admission status will be terminated on failure to maintain academic standards required by the Graduate School and the Department. Termination may also result when students fail to fulfill obligations within the time frame established by the Graduate School and the Department. Graduate status may be terminated before expiration of specified time under circumstances of academic dishonesty, incompetence, inefficiency, or neglect of duties; job-related misconduct; moral turpitude; financial exigency; or other unforeseen circumstances which severely deter or halt progress in the student's program.

5. Residency
If the graduate student is not on an assistantship and not an Arkansas resident, he/she must establish in-state residency in order to pay only in-state tuition and fees. To be eligible for in-state tuition he/she will need to show proof of residency for at least 6 months prior to that semester's registration. Registering a car, obtaining an Arkansas driver's license, and registering to vote before the first semester here may be very important. (Students on assistantships refer to Section 7.b.).

6. Waiver of Registration Fee and Tuition for Graduate Assistantships
   a. Registration Fee
Any graduate student appointed to the position of Graduate Assistant whose appointment is equal to or greater than fifty percent (50%) may be granted registration fees in addition to the stipend.
   b. Non-resident Tuition
Any graduate student appointed to the position of Graduate Assistant whose appointment is equal to or greater than twenty-five percent (25%) shall, in addition to any stipend, be classified as an in-state student for tuition and fee purposes. (These students should still begin the reclassification process above to avoid possible over-charges.)

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Responsibilities within the Graduate Program

A. Responsibilities of the Department Head

The Department Head is chief executive for the major professor, the advisory committee, and the student. He serves as an ex officio member of all committees and may advise any committee member, the major professor, or the student in regard to quality of the student's performance.

Recent legislation requires each department to have an educational assessment plan for the evaluation of students as they finish their advanced degrees. In the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences, this plan includes a written questionnaire and an oral exit interview with the Department Head in addition to the oral defense normally required for the degree.

B. Responsibilities of the Major Professor

The major professor (advisor) should assist the student in choosing his or her graduate research project and should provide advice throughout the student's graduate program. The method and philosophy of developing and carrying out a graduate program should rest with the major professor in consultation with the student's advisory committee. The major professor should approve all course work, and review the progress of the student regularly. The advisor should approve the student's thesis/dissertation before it is submitted to the advisory committee and should examine the final copy of the thesis/dissertation which is submitted to the Graduate School before affixing his/her signature to denote approval of the quality of the research and the mechanical and literary quality of the document.

C. Responsibilities of the Advisory Committee

Members of the advisory committee, appointed by the major professor and the Department Head, serve as an advisory board to both the major professor and the graduate student. They also conduct the oral exam and thesis/dissertation approval. They may also conduct written exams. Supervision of the performance of the graduate student is the responsibility of the major professor, but members of the committee may suggest course work, research techniques, or other needs that will promote success of the student's graduate program. A member of the advisory committee may serve to advise the student in a special area of expertise and coordinate portions of the student's research in agreement with the major professor. The signature of a member of the advisory committee on the student's thesis/dissertation indicates that the committee member believes the quality of both the research and the thesis/dissertation merits approval.

D. Responsibilities of the Graduate Student

1. To the Graduate School
It is the responsibility of the graduate student to comply with regulations governing the University of Arkansas and the graduate program as outlined in the Graduate School Catalog. Important deadlines can be met only if the student is familiar with criteria in the catalog and with notifications that are published periodically, particularly during registration procedures.

2. To the Department
   a. Graduate students holding a half-time appointment are expected to work for their advisors for 20 hours per week. Those on a three-quarter-time appointment are expected to work for their advisor for 30 hours per week.  Those on full-time appointments are expected to work for their advisor for 40 hours per week.
   b. The Department considers it the obligation of the graduate student, and not the major advisor, to initiate all actions required for fulfilling the requirements for the degree.
   c. The graduate student who holds an assistantship should consider that position a professional obligation and fulfill responsibilities with full regard for professional ethics. Problems that arise should be discussed first with the major professor. If the major professor cannot deal with the problem, the student may consult the Department Head.
   d. The graduate student involved in research may sometimes be responsible for negotiating with other institutions, industries, or private individuals in relation to funds, supplies, or services. Any communications with such individuals should be conducted with full understanding of University policies and regulations and with approval from the advisor.

3. To the Advisory Committee
The student's advisory committee serves both as an advisory committee for his/her graduate program and as a thesis/dissertation and written/oral examining committee.  The student should  seek the  help of any member of the advisory committee  whenever it becomes desirable during the course of study. Any major changes in the course work or research will be done in consultation with the committee members.

4. Professionalism
One way of showing interest in the profession is to include oneself in the professional societies which are affiliated with the many areas of Crop, Soil, and Weed Sciences. Many of the societies are interested in having students as members so there are special rates for these students. The following is a list of societies and members who have membership information.
   a) American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, Soil Science Society of America - Dr.    Robert Bacon and Dr. Duane Wolf.
b) Weed Science Society of America -  Dr. Dick Oliver.
   c) Soil Conservation Society of America - Dr. E. Moye Rutledge.
   d) American Society of Plant Physiology - Dr. Derrick Oosterhuis.

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University Services and Programs

A. The Credit Union

If a student holds an assistantship, he/she is an employee of the University of Arkansas, and as such, is eligible for membership in the UARK Federal Credit Union. Further information may be obtained from the UARK Federal Credit Union; Hwy. 62 West; P.O. Box 1643; Fayetteville, AR  72702 (phone 501/575-2958).

B. Housing

Most graduate students in the past have acquired housing off campus in Fayetteville. However, Scarborough House is a dorm that is available for graduate students only.  Carlson Terrace and Terrace Manor have apartments available for graduate and non-traditional students.  Further information can be obtained from the Director, Housing Office, Hotz Hall 9th Fl., University of Arkansas, Fayetteville AR  72701 (phone 501-575-3951).

C. Transportation

1. Shuttle System
Beginning Spring semester of 2004, the Shuttle Bus is being replaced by the Tan bus of the Razorback Transit system.

2. Transit System
A transit system of University buses circuits a wide area of the city adjacent to the campus. Route maps and schedules may be obtained at the transit office, ADSB-131, phone 575-3507/3508.

3. Parking
Parking for private vehicles is limited both on the campus and near the campus. A parking permit may be obtained from the Public Safety Office (ADSB-131, 575-3507/3508) along with maps which illustrate parking lots where the permit is valid.

4. Use of University Vehicles
State vehicles are operated by the Department for official University business only. To qualify as a driver for state vehicles, one must possess a current Arkansas driver's license.

For trips downstate or out of state, as driver or passenger, a "Request for Travel Authorization" form will need to be filled out prior to trip. These forms are available from the departmental main office or at the Altheimer Laboratory.  For trips out of state, the Request for Travel Authorization must be submitted two weeks prior to the date of travel.
After returning, fill out a "Statement of Traveling Expenses" form. Check the back of the form for the amount allowed, as well as codes for type of transportation. This form not only lists vehicle expenses but also expenses for food and lodging to be claimed.  Provisions can be made for travel authorization and expense claims for using a private vehicle with the travel request.

D. Typing Policy

Secretaries do not type theses and dissertations on University time with University equipment. Computers and printers are available for use by graduate students at the Altheimer Laboratory, and the Plant Science (102) and Agriculture (122) buildings on campus.

Students are responsible for making all copies of their thesis/dissertation. A student will need at least 4 (and possibly 5) final copies: 2 on 100% bond paper for Mullins Library (turned in at Graduate School), 1 for the Department, 1 for the Altheimer Laboratory library (if applicable), and 1 for the major professor. Departmental copies may be printed on 25% bond paper. All of these copies must contain original signature sheets.

E. Procedures for Processing Requisitions

1. General Policy (Requisition form and Competitive Bid form)
   a. Items costing less than $1,000 may be ordered without a bid process. This is without tax but does include shipping. Advance purchase order numbers may be obtained from Purchasing for placing orders of immediate need. These items do not apply to state contract items, printing or copying, paper products, or purchasing items repeatedly to avoid the bid process.
   b. Items costing between $1,000 and $5,000 must be bid. This can be done by a phone bid or fax process.  Obtain phone bid forms from the bookkeepers. These bid forms require a professor's signature. Make sure freight or delivery is included in the bid price. Also, be sure to get all information needed, i.e.: vendor name, address, phone number, and name of person quoting the price.
   c. Orders costing more than $5,000 and less than $10,000 must go through a written bid process. Fax copies are acceptable and minority vendor solicitation is required.  Obtain directions from departmental bookkeepers.
   d. Orders over $10,000 require formal bids and are processed by the Purchasing Department. Newspaper advertising by the Purchasing Department is required.
   e. Make sure all prices are current. Freight costs must be included in these limits, but not tax.

2. Regular Order
   a. Fill out a requisition with vendor and address (including tax number), cost center name and number, to whom order should be shipped, proper departmental address, items and amounts requested.
   b. Turn the requisition into the departmental bookkeeping office or at the Altheimer Laboratory.
   c. Purchases on blanket purchase order numbers cannot exceed $1,000 per month per vendor. If the purchase is over $1,000, a special one-time requisition must be submitted.
   d. Once the item is received, return packing slips to bookkeeping to facilitate payment of the invoice. The person who receives the order should sign and date the packing slip before turning it into departmental bookkeeping personnel in the appropriate office.

F. Communications

1. Mail and Messages
Graduate students will have access to a telephone in or near their office and will be assigned a mailbox in Room 114 of the Plant Science Building or at the Altheimer Laboratory.

2. Job announcements are on file in PTSC 113, or on the Departmental Web page at http://www.uark.edu/depts/agronomy/index.html.

3. Use of Telephones
Please limit personal use of the phones for local calls in order to keep lines available for business and professional calls.

A student should not make personal long-distance calls from university phones. For long-distance business calls, we generally use the WATSBOX system. Access to this system is made through the student’s major professor.

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