Applicants should have a baccalaureate degree in an honours plant science/biology program, or the equivalent, from a recognized university or college with an average academic standing of at least 'B' during the last two years of full-time study (or equivalent). To assist in identifying a suitable thesis advisor(s), applicants should submit a short statement of research interests. Supportive letters of reference are essential and should outline the applicant's strengths and weaknesses. Students may be admitted in the fall, winter or summer semesters. The University of Guelph requires that applicants from some foreign institutions have a MSc (or equivalent) degree before they are considered for admission to the University of Guelph's MSc program.

A program of prescribed courses (at least 1.5 credits of 6000 level courses) and additional courses is established with the student's advisory committee. All MSc candidates must complete a thesis and present a seminar in conjunction with the final oral examination. Students are required to participate in the Seminar PLNT*6400 and in a Departmental Colloquium course dealing with current topics. Students are expected to participate in Departmental events, with particular emphasis on the seminar series and poster day.