Frequently Asked Questions

Fellowships and other financial support

There are many options when it comes to student's financial support. The Plant Sciences Program guarantees stipend support for five years to all students making adequate progress towards the completion of their PhD degree. Fellowships, research assistantships and teaching assistantships are just a few of the options available to students.

Up to four fellowships are awarded annually, on a competitive basis, to Plant Sciences students (allowing them to rotate in different laboratories during their first year). The Nebraska Molecular Plant Breeding Program also awards USDA National Needs fellowships. In addition, the Plant Sciences Program coordinator will work closely with well-qualified students to support their application for federal pre-doctoral fellowships. Please contact Vicky Harris (vharris2@unlnotes.unl.edu) for more information.

Why UNL?

The University of Nebraska at Lincoln was formed in 1869 as a land grant institution. It has grown over the years with the addition of other campus locations around Nebraska. With over 148 undergraduate majors and 113 graduate programs, UNL is a nationally recognized university with students from over 90 countries and from every state in the nation. Instruction is organized within individual colleges and schools on four campuses. US News and World Report has included UNL among the top 50% schools in their ranking of national universities. Federal research dollars at UNL have recently passed the $100 million mark!

Why the Plant Sciences Program?

The Plant Sciences Program takes advantage of all that UNL has to offer. Faculty from different departments work together to give Plant Science students exposure and experience in cutting edge research using the best facilities available. Other benefits include a very competitive stipend, travel funds, journal clubs and student groups within the individual departments.

What about Lincoln?

Lincoln is the second largest city in Nebraska and is centrally located. With a population of 225,000 people, of all ethnic origins, Lincoln is a very cosmopolitan city for its size. There is an active downtown with clubs, theatre and nightlife. There are restaurants that represent many cuisines. Shopping (at the Haymarket Historical District and several malls), parks, and recreation all contribute to a wonderful lifestyle. The cost of living is low! Apartment rentals are reasonable and abundant and daycare is affordable.

What is there to do in Lincoln?

Students at UNL benefit from an exciting and vibrant environment. On campus there are several theatres including the Lied Center for Performing Arts, the Mary Riepma Ross Film Theater, and several art galleries including the Sheldon Memorial Art Gallery and the Sculpture Garden. There are also multiple labs on campus representing many interests.

There are over 6000 acres of parkland and 60 miles of bike trails in Lincoln. On campus, the Student Recreation Center offers exercise facilities and athletic events that are nationally renowned (Go Big Red). In addition to UNL events, Lincoln is home to minor league baseball, football and hockey teams.

Health Insurance and dental insurance

The university picks up the initial cost of enrollment. After enrollment, 100% of the fees are covered if students use the University Health Center. If students go outside of this facility then 80% of the fees are covered with a $400 deductible. This is a very competitive plan compared to other Universities. We are very proud of the availability of this program for all students. Click here for more information on health insurance.