The Seed Biotechnology Center at the University of California, Davis has organized a professional development course to teach the principles of plant breeding to seed industry personnel. This two-year course addresses the reduced numbers of plant breeders being trained in academic programs. Participants meet at UC Davis for six sessions over two years. Readings and exercises continue between sessions via internet to allow participants to maintain their current positions while being involved in the course.
Course goal: This course develops the skills and abilities of current industry personnel to enable them to become independent breeders or more valuable contributors to larger breeding programs.
When will the in-residence sessions be held? Instruction for the 2010-2012 Academy cohort begins Fall 2010 and runs through Summer 2012. Dates of in-residence sessions in Davis are:
2010-2011
September 13-18, 2010
February 7-12, 2011
June 6-11, 2011
2011-2012
September 12-17, 2011
February 6-11, 2012
June 4-9, 2012
Application and Admission: To provide a personalized learning environment, the program is limited to 20 participants. Applicants should complete the on-line form and separately mail or email a resume in order to be considered for enrollment. Applicants' background and experience will be reviewed to ensure they meet the minimal requirements before acceptance. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science degree (or demonstrate equivalent professional experience) and have taken introductory courses in statistics and genetics. Practical experience, academic standing (GPA or equivalent) and rationale for participation in the Academy will be evaluated. Among applicants meeting the program requirements, acceptance will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Acceptance is not secured until the first year's tuition is received.
Tuition: Tuition is US$23,000 per participant for the two-year program. Tuition includes all course materials and fees. Lunches and breaks during residence in Davis are provided. Travel, accommodations and other meals during in-residence sessions are not included. A non-refundable deposit of US$1,000 will be due within 30 days of acceptance into the Academy, and will be applied toward tuition. The balance of the first-year tuition (US$11,000) must be received by June 1, 2010, and the second-year tuition (US$11,000) by June 1, 2011. No refunds will be issued for an annual payment. Payment procedures will be provided to applicants following acceptance into the Academy.
Applications: Available here
For more information contact: Joy Patterson jpatterson@ucdavis.edu 530-752-4414