About Us

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Program Overview

Master of Science in International Agricultural Development

Hosted in the Department of Plant Sciences, the IAD M.S. degree program prepares students for impactful careers in global agricultural and rural development. Our interdisciplinary curriculum equips students with practical skills to lead sustainable agricultural practices, resource management, and social innovation, with a focus on developing regions worldwide.

Program Organization

Graduate students at UC Davis satisfy requirements through both Graduate Studies and the IAD Graduate Group, which brings together expert faculty across 12 academic departments.

  • Breadth & Depth Training: All M.S. students complete foundational coursework in development history, leadership, farming systems, and agricultural economics alongside specialized depth tracks.
  • Faculty & Advising: Over 30 faculty members lead research, teaching, and extension in international development. Students pursuing a thesis work closely with an IAD faculty major professor to guide their research.

Core Leadership

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Amanda Crump

Amanda Crump serves as Chair of the IAD Graduate Group. She leads initiatives in international agricultural extension, gender integration, and agricultural education, empowering communities worldwide through sustainable agricultural research.

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Erin McGuire

Erin McGuire serves as Director of the IAD Graduate Group. She leads program strategy and student advising while directing international research initiatives that advance horticulture and local agricultural economies worldwide.

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Katie Danyo

Katie Danyo serves as Graduate Coordinator for IAD and Undergraduate Advisor in Plant Sciences. Bringing a background in political science, international education, and student advising, she supports students through every step of their academic journey.

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