University of Florida Plant Medicine Program: Leading in the success of an emerging profession

Human and animal health professions have evolved practitioners, physicians (MDs) and veterinarians (DVMs), to integrate and apply health information for their clients. We believe that comparably trained individuals knowledgeable in prevention, diagnosis and management of all types of plant problems, represent a natural and essential evolution of agricultural science. Since 2003, 34 American and international students have completed the rigorous, multidisciplinary training required for the Doctor of Plant Medicine (DPM) degree offered at the University of Florida (UF). Students in this program develop problem-solving skills through class room, internship and clinical trial experiences. The UF Plant Medicine Program's problem-based curriculum enables graduates to recognize and adapt to the ever-changing plant health needs of their clients. DPMs are employed as crop consultants, extension faculty, teachers, pest regulatory officials (U.S. and abroad), plant health managers (golf courses, crop production companies, public gardens, etc.) and in other segments of agriculture. Because of the increasing loss of expertise in the U.S. and elsewhere through retirement, broadly trained individuals will no doubt be in high demand to fill leadership roles in all areas of plant health management. The recognition of the emerging profession of Plant Medicine is reflected in the establishment of programs similar to University of Florida's in the U.S. and internationally.