Aug. 19, 2024
Beauty Care
How do I contact the Doctor of Plant Health office?
For more information, please visit our website.
See Contact Us for mail, and contact information.
What is the DPH Degree?
The Doctor of Plant Health (DPH) degree is a unique professional, doctoral degree similar in concept to the Doctor of Human Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degrees. See DPH Parallels Chart. This degree is offered exclusively by the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska&#; Lincoln, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Sciences.
Is the DPH degree a PhD?
The course work required for the DPH degree is more extensive than that required for a PhD; and the major experiential training that DPH students receive is practicum based rather than research based. Therefore, the graduates receive a professional doctorate (DPH) degree and not a PhD.
What research experience does the DPH degree require?
The DPH degree is a practicum-based program but research experience is required. DPH students are required to undertake a research project (4 credits) that will be less involved than MS thesis or PhD dissertation research. Also, students will commonly be involved in research activities either through part-time employment or through research-based internships.
What does it take to get into the Doctor of Plant Health Program?
Applicants who have obtained their BS/BA degree or MS degrees will be considered for admission. The DPH degree is a rigorous graduate level degree program so entering the program with an adequate academic background is important. See Prerequisites for a listing of prerequisites for the DPH program. Several undergraduate courses provide useful preparation for the DPH degree (see Recommended Undergraduate Courses).
Are students with Master's Degrees accorded advanced standing?
Yes. Students with an MS degree in a plant-related discipline will likely be able to transfer several graduate credits to meet some of their DPH program requirements. Also, these students completing a thesis-based MS degree will have met the DPH research requirements.
What credits will transfer into the DPH program?
Only graduate course credits from an accredited graduate program and that are applicable to the DPH program requirements will be transferred. Acceptance of transfer credits for graduate courses completed at another institution is determined by the student's Supervisory Committee. Students who have completed an MS research thesis will be able to transfer 4 research credits to meet the &#;Research Practicum' requirement in the DPH program curriculum (see DPH Curriculum). At least half of the credits toward the DPH degree must be taken at the University of Nebraska&#; Lincoln.
What courses are offered online that can be used to fulfill DPH degree requirements?
Online courses offerings may offer students an opportunity to take courses while in the DPH program but not in residence at UNL, thus reducing the costs of relocating to Lincoln for the entire term of the program. Because of the advanced nature of numerous required courses and the importance of experiential (hands-on) learning opportunities in the DPH program, several of the required core courses (see DPH Curriculum) are unavailable online. However, several courses can be taken online for credit in the program. Currently we estimate that about 30-50% of the required course work could be taken online. Contact the Director, Dr. Jeff Bradshaw, by at or by at 402-472- with additional questions about the potential for online courses.
The DPH degree is a rigorous degree that requires 100 graduate-level credits, including internships (see DPH Curriculum). It will take a student entering with a BA or BS degree about 4 years to complete the program. Students entering with an MS degree may be able to finish in 3 years, depending on the number of transfer credits allowed. The time to complete the program will depend on the student's course load taken while in the program and on the scheduling of internship experiences.
In what topics are DPH students trained?
The DPH students are broadly trained across all major plant related disciplines: entomology, plant pathology, plant science, soil science and weed science. There is extensive involvement in the program across three UNL departments: Agronomy/Horticulture, Entomology and Plant Pathology. Other affiliated departments are also involved in teaching courses for the program. The course of study pursued by our students will prepare them in all aspects of the prevention, diagnosis and management of plant health problems (see Curriculum).
Can DPH students specialize?
Yes. DPH students will be encouraged to specialize in areas that address their individual career interests and goals. The students can choose to enhance their training in specific interest areas through selection of elective credits (12 elective course credits), research projects (4 credits) and work and internship experiences. Students will be strongly encouraged to use these options to structure their program to address their anticipated career objectives (e.g. field crops, specialty crops, horticulture, turf, forestry, organics, regulatory, etc.).
Why study at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln?
Studying plant health at UNL allows you to take advantage of the diversity of crop and plant systems and soils in the four major ecoregions across Nebraska. The Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resourses, of which this program is a part, is home to some of the most-cited agricultural scientists in the world, and you'll have the opportunity to study and be advised by members of that faculty.
&#;What are the career possibilities for graduates?
The broad and extensive practical training that DPH students receive affords graduates a wide variety of interesting and rewarding career possibilities (see Careers). The agricultural and horticultural consulting, contract research, and seed and chemical industries have expressed considerable interest in future graduates and have been extremely supportive in the initiation of this program. Extensive opportunities also exist with state and federal agencies and agricultural and horticultural extension and teaching.
How do I make arrangements to visit campus?
We welcome students to visit the campus to see the program firsthand, meet DPH related faculty, and to discuss the potential of this exciting program for their careers. To contact the Director, Dr. Jeff Bradshaw see Contact Us for mail, , and contact information.
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Today, we live in a time when manufactured medicines and prescriptions prevail, but do they have to be the only approach to healing?
Even with all of these engineered options at our fingertips, many people find themselves turning back to the medicinal plants that started it all: Herbal remedies that have the ability to heal and boost physical and mental well-being.
In fact, at the beginning of the 21st century, 11 percent of the 252 drugs considered &#;basic and essential&#; by the World Health Organization were &#;exclusively of flowering plant origin.&#; Drugs like codeine, quinine, and morphine all contain plant-derived ingredients.
While these manufactured drugs have certainly become paramount in our lives, it can be comforting to know that the power of nature is on our side, and these herbal choices are available to complement our health practices.
But the extent of the power they hold is also still being explored. These alternatives aren&#;t cure-alls, and they aren&#;t perfect. Many carry the same risks and side effects as manufactured medicines. Many of them are sold with unfounded promises.
However, many herbs and teas offer harmless subtle ways to improve your health. Pay attention to what the evidence says about each herb&#;s effectiveness as well as potential interactions or safety issues. Avoid using herbs for infants and children and for those who are pregnant and breastfeeding. Most herbs haven&#;t been tested for safety for those who are vulnerable, and trying herbs isn&#;t worth the risk.
With this cautionary tale in mind, choosing the right plant can seem difficult to someone who simply wants to feel better without taking medication. That&#;s why, with the help of specialist Debra Rose Wilson, we&#;re looking at the most effective and therapeutic plants &#; which have strong scientific evidence to support their safe use.
Making decisions about herbs along with more traditional medicinal approaches is something you and your healthcare practitioner can address together. At times, Wilson notes, ingesting the plants can have even less risk than taking concentrated, manufactured supplements, as there&#;s more risk of contamination of the product with the manufacture processes. It&#;s a wonderful way to experience their effects and the satisfaction of growing them yourself. Herbs can also be a way to add a needed nutrient.
However, both plants and supplements, which aren&#;t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration for safety or quality, can have questionable dosage and might have a risk of contamination. Keep this in mind before choosing supplements from the shelf.
If you&#;d like to add some medicinal plants to your wellness regimen, Wilson sifted through the latest studies and provides her own ratings system for our list.
These plants have the most numerous high-quality studies and are the safer choices among herbal remedies. She&#;s marked &#;0&#; as unsafe with no research, and &#;5&#; as completely safe with ample research. Many of these plants are somewhere between 3 and 4, according to Wilson.
We hope this guide will act as a starting point to those who wish to integrate herbal remedies into their lives and arrive armed with knowledge. As always, speak with your doctor before starting any new health treatment.
Safety: 3/5
Evidence: 3.5/5
As one of the oldest tree species, gingko is also one of the oldest homeopathic plants and a key herb in Chinese medicine. The leaves are used to create capsules, tablets, and extracts, and when dried, can be consumed as a tea.
It&#;s perhaps best-known for its ability to boost brain health. Studies say that gingko can treat patients with mild to moderate dementia, and can slow cognition decline in dementia and Alzheimer&#;s disease.
Recent research is looking into a component that can help diabetes, and there continue to be more studies, including an animal study that says it might influence bone healing.
Interesting FactThe gingko tree is considered a living fossil, with fossils dating from 270 million years ago. These trees can live up to 3,000 years.
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Safety: used as an herb: 5/5; used as a supplement: 4/5
Evidence: 3/5
With its brilliant orange hue, it&#;s impossible to miss a bottle of turmeric sitting on a spice shelf. Originating in India, turmeric is believed to have anticancer properties and can prevent DNA mutations.
As an anti-inflammatory, it can be taken as a supplement and it&#;s been used topically for people with arthritis who wish to relieve discomfort. It&#;s used worldwide as a cooking ingredient, which makes it a delicious, antioxidant-rich addition to many dishes.
According to recent research, turmeric is also showing promise as a treatment for a variety of dermatologic diseases and joint arthritis.
Interesting FactTurmeric has been used as a medicinal herb for 4,000 years. It&#;s a tentpole of an Indian alternative medicine practice called Ayurveda.
Safety: topically: 4.5/5; orally: 3/5
Evidence: 3/5
The vibrant yellow evening primrose flower produces an oil that&#;s thought to alleviate the symptoms of PMS and skin conditions like eczema.
Studies that are available on this oil tend to be all over the map, but there are studies that are stronger than others. For example, some studies have found that evening primrose oil has anti-inflammatory properties. It&#;s been known to help with conditions such as atopic dermatitis and diabetic neuropathy. It can also help with other health concerns, such as breast pain.
Recent research points to improving the quality of life for patients with multiple sclerosis, changing hormones and insulin sensitivity in those dealing with polycystic ovary syndrome, and using it topically to improve mild dermatitis.
According to these studies, evening primrose oil might just be the Swiss Army knife of the medicinal plant world. The caveat is that it can interact with several medications. More research is coming, and the applications are promising.
Interesting FactEvening primrose flowers are also called moonflowers because they bloom as the sun begins to set. People often say they smell like lemons.
Safety: 4.5/5
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Evidence: 3.5/5
Flax seed, also available as an oil, is one of the safer choices among plant-based dietary supplements. Harvested for thousands of years, today flax seed is praised for its antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Although more research needs to be done with human subjects, one study says that flax seed can help prevent colon cancer.
Another study cites that flax seed has the ability to reduce blood pressure. When consumed, it can even aid in reducing obesity. Many people add flax seed and flaxseed meal to oatmeal and smoothies, and it&#;s also available in the form of tablets, oil (which can be put into capsules), and flour.
The best way to add flax seed is through your diet. Sprinkle ground seeds on cereal or salad, cook in hot cereal, stew, homemade breads, or smoothies. Add flaxseed oil to salad dressing.
Interesting FactFlax seeds are one of a handful of plant-based sources for omega-3 fatty acids. Other sources include chia seeds, walnuts, and soybeans.
Safety: 4/5
Evidence: 3/5
The tea tree, which is native to Australia, produces an oil that&#;s long been thought to be beneficial for skin conditions, including mild acne, athlete&#;s foot, small wounds, dandruff, insect bites, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
There needs to be further study into acne and scalp use, but for now, there&#;s a degree of research into the antimicrobial superpowers of tea tree oil on wounds and topical infections.
One recent study said that tea tree oil slowed the growth of acne-causing microbes. It&#;s commonly used as a highly concentrated essential oil.
Wilson recommends that tea tree oil, as with all essential oils, should be diluted in a carrier oil. She adds that it often already comes diluted in a variety of skin care products and creams.
Interesting FactTea tree oil is derived from the leaves of a tree that&#;s native to Queensland and New South Wales, Australia.
Safety: 4.5/5
Evidence: 3.5/5
Echinacea is a lot more than those pretty, purple coneflowers you see dotting gardens. These blooms have been used for centuries as medicine in the form of teas, juice, and extracts. Today, they can be taken as powders or supplements.
The best-known use of echinacea is to shorten symptoms of the common cold, but more studies are needed to verify this benefit and to understand how echinacea boosts immunity when a virus is present.
Generally, save a few potential side effects, echinacea is relatively safe. Even though it needs more testing, you can always choose to use it if you&#;re hoping to see your cold symptoms end more quickly.
Interesting FactSome of the earliest people to use echinacea as a medicinal herb were Native Americans. The first archaeological evidence dates back to the 18th century.
Safety: 4.5/5
Evidence: 3.5/5
For years, grapeseed extract, which is available via liquid, tablets, or capsules, has been well-established and applauded for its antioxidant activity. It has potent health benefits, including lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol and reducing symptoms of poor circulation in the leg veins.
Studies are confirming that regular consumption of grapeseed extract has anticancer effects and seems to halt cancer cell growth.
Interesting FactGrapeseed extract contains the same antioxidants found in wine.
Safety: 4/5
Evidence: 3.5/5
If you experience anxiety, chances are that someone along the way has recommended that you use lavender essential oil, and for good reason. This aromatic, purple flower has a fairly strong standing among studies, which have mainly focused on its anti-anxiety capacities.
It&#;s proven to be soothing in a study conducted among dental patients, while another study confirmed that lavender can directly impact mood and cognitive performance. It&#;s also been commended for its sedative properties to help people get much-needed sleep.
Recently, it&#;s been discovered that lavender carries anti-inflammatory benefits as well. It&#;s most effective diluted and applied to the skin or used in aromatherapy, and it has few side effects.
Interesting factLavender was first brought to Provence, France, by the Romans 2,000 years ago.
Safety: 4/5
Evidence: 3.5/5
With flowers that resemble small daisies, chamomile is another medicinal plant that&#;s thought to have anti-anxiety properties. Most people know it because it&#;s a popular tea flavor (one review says that over 1 million cups per day are consumed around the world), but it can also be ingested through liquids, capsules, or tablets.
The calming powers of chamomile have been frequently studied, including a study that states chamomile is superior to taking a placebo when treating generalized anxiety disorder. One recent study confirmed it&#;s safe for long-term use, and another recent study looked beyond its use for anxiety and confirmed that it also shows potential in anticancer treatments.
Interesting FactThere are two types of chamomile: German chamomile, an annual that thrives in the Midwest, and Roman chamomile, a perennial that attracts pollinators and smells like apples.
Shelby Deering is a lifestyle writer based in Madison, Wisconsin, with a master&#;s degree in journalism. She specializes in writing about wellness and for the past 14 years has contributed to national outlets including Prevention, Runner&#;s World, Well+Good, and more. When she&#;s not writing, you&#;ll find her meditating, searching for new organic beauty products, or exploring local trails with her husband and corgi, Ginger.
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