Department of Rural Development - GS

Graduate School • Mariano Marcos State University

Overview & Description Faculty & Staff Organizational Chart Academic Programs Contact & Location

Department Overview

Background & Introduction

Master of Science in Animal Science

Program Description

The program aims to develop graduate students with critical thinking and independent advancement of knowledge in animal science and professional leadership of specialized, interdisciplinary, or multidisciplinary fields of animal science.

Program Outcomes:

PO1 In-depth knowledge in animal science. In-depth theoretical and practical knowledge in animal science disciplines, enabling them to address local and global challenges in animal health, breeding, nutrition and management

PO2 Proficiency in independent, evidence-based research. Proficiency in conducting independent, evidence-based research to address contemporary issues in animal science and generate solution that contributes to the sustainability of the animal industry

PO3 Skills for sustainable animal production systems. Skills to develop and implement sustainable animal production systems, considering local resources, environmental impact and socioeconomic factors, ensuring food security and promoting animal welfare

PO4 Leadership and communication in animal production. Leadership and communication skills to promote the adoption of best and sustainable practices in animal production

PO5 Ethical standards in professional practice. High ethical standards in professional practice related to animal science, ensuring welfare, safety, and compliance with regulations while promoting responsible stewardship of natural resources.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates can pursue careers as livestock nutritionists, research scientists, agribusiness managers, extension specialists, and faculty members, contributing to sustainable animal production, food security, and rural development.

Curriculum: View Curriculum Here

Master of Science in Crop Science

Program Description

The program aims to develop graduate students with critical thinking and independent advancement of knowledge in Crop Science and professional leadership of specialized areas in Crop Science.

Program Outcomes:

PO1 Knowledge and Technical Competence. Produce graduates/agriculturist with quality, relevant, effective and adequate instructions in the field of crop science.

PO2 Social Responsibility, Extension and Leadership. Well-rounded and equipped with knowledge and skills who are participative in countryside agro-industrial development.

PO3. Research and Innovation. Research in priority commodity crops in order to generate relevant information and technologies that are needed in the sustainability of intensive production systems which are responsive to the needs of the people that uplift their living standards and socio-economic life.

Curriculum: View Curriculum Here

Master of Science in Biology

Program Description

The Master of Science in Biology curriculum provides students with in-depth knowledge of the biological sciences and research training. The program integrates theoretical concepts with hands-on laboratory and field experiences in microbiology, molecular and cellular biology, genetics, ecology, and evolutionary biology, and other courses.

The program prepares graduates to design and conduct independent scientific investigations, analyze and interpret data, and communicate research findings with honest confidence to professional and academic audiences. Graduates will be ready for careers in research, education, healthcare-related fields, and for doctoral study or other professional advanced programs.

Program Outcomes:

PO1 Knowledge. Grasp advanced knowledge in the higher areas of biology.

PO2 Current/recent trends. Have the ability to keep abreast with new developments in science and technology.

PO3 Computational biology. Apply computational methods and appropriate experimental designs and analysis in research problems in biology.

PO4 Scientific inquiry. Recognize and solve meaningful research problems in biology.

PO5 Communication ability. Have the ability to write and present a scientific paper, oral and written.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the Master of Science in Biology are equipped with advanced knowledge, research competencies, and communication skills that prepare them for diverse career opportunities in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and industry.

They may pursue careers as research scientists, biology instructors and academicians, laboratory managers, computational biology specialists, environmental and conservation officers, science and technology professionals, research and development specialists, and science communicators and technical writers.

Curriculum: View curriculum here

Master of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering

Program Description

The program aims to develop graduate students with critical thinking and independent advancement of knowledge and professional leadership in specialized areas in ABE: Land and Water Resources (LWRE), AB Machinery and Power Engineering (ABMPE), and AB Process Engineering (ABPE).

Program Outcomes: The MS in ABE graduate:

PO1 Cutting edge expertise. Has the capacity to exhibit cutting-edge ABE knowledge and abilities;

PO2 Experimental design and analysis. Design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data in AB Engineering fields;

PO3 Professional judgement and execution. Has the ability to exercise expert judgment and carry out important tasks involving professional knowledge, practice, and management;

PO4 System evaluation and synthesis. Is capable of evaluating, producing, synthesizing, and analyzing ABE systems;

PO5 Design realization. Is able to create parts, products, and systems that, within practical limits, satisfy particular ABE requirements;

PO6 Independent scientific inquiry. Has the ability to conduct independent scientific inquiry that leads to novel applications;

PO7 Sustainable technology adoption. Adopts technological advancements with minimal environmental impact;

PO8 Technical communication proficiency. Can effectively convey technical knowledge on complex ABE elements both orally and in writing;

PO9 Versatile professional performance. Can perform well in a variety of job settings as an individual, a team player, or a leader;

PO10 Knowledge stewardship. Can contribute to the creation, dissemination, and preservation of ABE knowledge, processes, procedures, and methods;

PO11 Ethical and professional commitment. Commits oneself to ethical and professional standards; and

PO12 Lifelong learning engagement. Engages in professional development and life-long learning.

Career Opportunities:

Academia Roles (teaching/research/extension), Industry Positions (machinery design/food processing), Government Service (DA/NIA projects), Research Development (sustainable tech/bioenergy) - high demand roles in the country.

Curriculum : View Curriculum here:

Master of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Major in Land and Water Resources Engineering (LWRE)

Master of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Major in AB Process Engineering (ABPE)

Master of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Major in AB Machinery and Power Engineering (ABMPE)

Master of Science in Mathematics

Program Description

The MS in Mathematics Program is designed primarily for those seeking advanced mathematical training in preparing for doctoral studies, for research, and for teaching.

Program Outcomes

The MS in Mathematics curriculum centers on developing the students’ understanding of the content of standard graduate courses in Analysis and Algebra. Likewise, it allows the student to choose a variety of electives leading to some areas of specialization as preparation for mathematics research.

Specifically, it aims to: 1) provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue careers in mathematics education and research; 2) prepare students for doctorate degrees in pure and applied mathematics or some other fields; and 3) advance teaching competency for teachers in various mathematics courses at the undergraduate level.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the MS Mathematics program may pursue careers in higher education, research, data analytics, actuarial science, finance, operations research, government service, and other quantitative professions that require advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.

Curriculum: View curriculum here

Master of Science in Rural Development

Program Description

An interdisciplinary graduate program designed to equip professionals with advance competencies in planning, implementing, and evaluating sustainable and transformative rural development programs.

Program Outcomes

PO1 Articulate current rural trends. Articulate and discuss current issues and trends in rural development.

PO2 Conceptualize, conduct and publish multidisciplinary research. Design, conduct, disseminate, and publish research on multidisciplinary development.

PO3 Design and implement rural development programs. Design and implement rural development programs using context-sensitive frameworks

PO4 Formulate theoretical framework for rural development. Assess, formulate, and improve development frameworks, policies and strategies to empower rural communities

PO5 Apply sustainable development principles. Apply sustainable development principles in managing enterprises, communities, and practice and in providing solutions to practical problems.

Career Opportunities.

The graduates occupy middle-management positions in government, academia, research, and NGOs as project officer, community/project development officer, community development specialist, project manager, M&E and training specialist, and municipal planning and development coordinator.

Curriculum: View curriculum here

Master of Science in Agroforestry

Program Description

The Master of Science in Agroforestry is a graduate-level program designed to develop highly competent professional capable of leading and innovating agroforestry systems and managing sustainable agricultural and forestry resources. The program equips students with advanced disciplinary knowledge, critical and analytical thinking, research capabilities, and problem-solving skills, necessary for sustainable natural resource management, climate resilience, and rural development. Graduates are expected to contribute significantly to national and regional development goals, environmental sustainability, and food security through innovative agroforestry practices and evidence-based policies.

Program Outcomes

Graduates of the Master of Science in Agroforestry program should be able to:

PO1. Demonstrate advanced theoretical and applied knowledge of agroforestry systems, sustainable land use, and natural resource management across diverse ecological and socio-economic contexts;

PO2. design, conduct, and apply independent and collaborative research that addresses complex agroforestry and environmental challenges;

PO3. lead and manage the planning, implementation, and evaluation of agroforestry projects and programs in multidisciplinary and multicultural settings;

PO4. exhibit strong ethical and professional values by demonstrating accountability, environmental stewardship, and responsiveness to the needs of local and global communities;

PO5. communicate effectively through appropriate modalities to engage stakeholders, disseminate research findings, and influence policy and practice in agroforestry; and

PO6. apply advanced tools and technologies, including geospatial analysis, modeling, and participatory approaches, in agroforestry planning and decision-making.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the Master of Science in Agroforestry program are equipped with advanced knowledge, research competencies, and practical skills that prepare them for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the fields of agriculture, forestry, environmental management, research, and sustainable development. The program develops professionals capable of addressing contemporary challenges and leading initiatives that promote ecological integrity, community development, and climate resilience.

Graduates may pursue careers as agroforestry and environmental specialists, applying scientific and technical knowledge to promote sustainable land use and environmental management. They may work as research and academic professionals, contributing to the generation and dissemination of knowledge through research, teaching, and extension services.

Grduates can also serve as community and development project officers, leading and implementing programs that support rural development and community empowerment. They may become consultants and technical analysts, providing expert advice and evidence-based solutions to address agricultural, forestry, and environmental concerns.

Graduates may likewise assume positions as farm and natural resource managers, overseeing the sustainable utilization and management of agricultural and natural resources. They may also pursue careers as climate and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) specialists, developing strategies and initiatives that promote climate resilience, sustainability, and responsible organizational practices.

Curriculum: View Curriculum here: Master of Science in Agroforestry

Program Offerings & Curriculum

Degrees, Outcomes & Curricular Prospectus