BP -Department of Plant Protection

Bologna Process

نظام مسار بولونيا

Department of Plant Protection

The Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection at the University of Mosul is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program comprising 240 ECTS credits delivered over eight academic semesters, aligned with the Bologna Process and the Iraqi National Qualifications Framework (INQF). The program equips students with a solid scientific foundation in the biology, ecology, and management of agricultural pests, including economic insects, plant pathogens (fungal, bacterial, viral, and nematode), weeds, and non-insect animal pests such as mites.

Building on core sciences such as mathematics, agricultural statistics, agricultural chemistry, and biological diversity, students progress into specialized studies covering entomology, plant pathology (mycology, bacteriology, virology), nematology, weed science, acarology, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The curriculum integrates theoretical instruction with laboratory diagnostics, field training, molecular and microscopic identification techniques, biological control practices, safe pesticide management, geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing, and graduation research projects to develop the diagnostic, analytical, and managerial competencies required of a professional plant protection engineer.

Graduates are prepared to identify, diagnose, and manage plant pests and diseases through sustainable, integrated, and environmentally responsible strategies that safeguard food security, protect biodiversity, and support the resilience of Iraq’s agricultural sector in the face of climate change, while promoting lifelong learning, professional ethics, teamwork, and community service. For more details, please visit the following link Plant protection Department

The Plant Protection Program aims to:

  1. Prepare and qualify specialized scientific cadres in plant protection who contribute to advancing Iraq’s agricultural reality in light of climate change.
  2. Conduct applied and academic scientific research to address challenges facing Iraqi farmers, and provide the public and private sectors with scientific consultancy and expertise to solve problems affecting agricultural production.
  3. Survey, diagnose, and control local and invasive pests affecting economic crops, in addition to rearing beneficial insects to enhance agricultural production.
  4. Organize seminars and workshops presenting research outcomes for agricultural directorates, agricultural extension services, and farmers, and develop future plans and management programs for major insect pests and plant diseases affecting strategic crops.
  5. Promote environmental sustainability by adopting sustainable agricultural practices that conserve natural resources, reduce environmental pollution, and raise awareness of the importance of preserving biodiversity within agricultural systems.

Program Vision

To be a leading educational institution in the integrated management of agricultural pests for safe and sustainable health and environment.

Program Mission

To build agricultural engineers capable of providing consultancy, expertise, and services in the field of plant protection, contributing to the advancement of the agricultural sector.

For more details, please visit the following link   Plant protection Department Mission

Upon successful completion of the program requirements, graduates are awarded the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Plant Protection by the University of Mosul.

According to the applicable graduation-requirements guide, a student must complete the total number of units required to finish the program, based on the program’s level. The guide presents this in the following table:

Program Number of Study Levels (Years) Required Units
Bachelor 4 240 ECTS

For the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection: since the program duration is four years, the guide places it within 4 study levels – 240 ECTS credits, as summarized below:

Qualification Type Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Cycle First Cycle
Duration of Study 4 years
Number of Semesters 8 semesters
Number of Study Levels 4
Total ECTS Credits 240

The qualification is classified at Level 4 of the Iraqi National Qualifications Framework (INQF), or its equivalent, in accordance with the regulations and guidelines of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research   .  This qualification level reflects the nature, type, and depth of the Bachelor’s degree awarded upon successful completion of the program. Accordingly, the program is structured as a First-Cycle Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) qualification, comprising four years of study, eight academic semesters, and a total of 240 ECTS credits. This qualification framework provides the basis for the design and development of the program curriculum, the formulation and alignment of Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs), and their correspondence with the Iraqi National Qualifications Framework (INQF) and the requirements of the labor market.

Admission to the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection program is governed by the regulations and admission policies of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research   and the University of Mosul. Applicants must meet the approved central admission criteria for agricultural science programs, based on their scores in the Iraqi Baccalaureate (scientific branch) or its recognized equivalent.

To be awarded the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection, students must successfully satisfy all graduation requirements, including:

  • Successful completion of all 240 ECTS credits, including all compulsory and elective courses specified in the curriculum across the eight academic semesters.
  • Achievement of the minimum graduation requirements in accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR) and the University of Mosul.
  • Successful completion of all required laboratory work, field diagnostics, and practical training components of the program.
  • Successful completion of the two Agricultural Engineering Graduation Projects (1 & 2).
  • Compliance with all academic regulations governing assessment, progression, and graduation as approved by MOHESR and the University of Mosul.
  • For more details, please visit the following link Plant Protection Department

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and transfer of academic credits are considered only in cases of student transfer or course equivalency, in accordance with the regulations and instructions of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR) and the University of Mosul.

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection program, graduates are expected to achieve the following Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs), which describe the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies required upon graduation:

Code Domain Program Learning Outcome (PLO) Statement Bloom’s Level
LO#4.A1 Knowledge and Understanding Describes the fundamental principles and theories of economic entomology and plant pathology (fungal, bacterial, viral, and nematode) and weed science as a scientific basis for understanding agricultural pests. Remembering
LO#4.A2 Knowledge and Understanding Interprets pest life cycles and plant disease epidemiology in accordance with quarantine laws and regulations to protect the local environment. Understanding
LO#1.B1 Intellectual Skills Diagnoses pathogens, insect pests, and weeds in the field and laboratory using the latest microscopic examination tools and molecular techniques. Analyzing
LO#5.B2 Intellectual Skills Designs Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs to keep pest populations below the Economic Injury Level (EIL) while maintaining ecological balance. Creating
LO#3.C1 Professional (Applied) Skills Evaluates the efficiency of biological, physical, and cultural control methods for effective and sustainable pest management through the use of natural enemies. Evaluating
LO#3.C2 Professional (Applied) Skills Applies safe chemical control practices, considering toxicity levels and residue effects, to ensure food and environmental safety. Applying
LO#3.C3 Professional (Applied) Skills Employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and modern technologies to forecast epidemic spread and map the geographic distribution of pests. Applying
LO#2.D1 Communication Skills Communicates effectively with farmers and the academic community to deliver technical guidance and epidemiological reports on control methods. Analyzing
LO#2.D2 Learning Skills Practices self-directed learning to keep pace with rapid developments in biotechnology and artificial intelligence for the early detection of pests. Applying
LO#6.E1 Values / Competencies Leads multidisciplinary teams to implement comprehensive control campaigns and manage plant protection projects within agricultural departments and institutions. Evaluating
LO#6.E2 Values / Competencies Commits to occupational safety standards and agricultural professional ethics to avoid pesticide poisoning hazards and reduce environmental pollution. Evaluating

The Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection program is aligned with the Iraqi National Qualifications Framework (INQF) at Level 4 The following table illustrates how the program’s Learning Outcomes correspond to the key learning domains defined by the INQF, ensuring that graduates acquire the knowledge, skills, competencies, and professional values required for effective practice in plant protection and lifelong learning:

Learning Domain Program Learning Outcomes / Graduate Outcomes (PLOs)
Knowledge and Understanding Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of the biological, morphological, and taxonomic foundations of insect pests, plant pathogens, and weeds, and interprets pest epidemiology within the framework of quarantine legislation. (A1, A2)
Skills Applies field and laboratory diagnostic methods — including advanced microscopy and molecular techniques (e.g., PCR) — and designs Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs based on economic injury thresholds. (B1, B2)
Application Applies engineering and technical judgment to evaluate biological and cultural control methods, implement safe chemical control practices, and employ GIS and remote-sensing technologies for pest forecasting and mapping. (C1, C2, C3)
Values Demonstrates effective communication with farmers and the academic community, practices self-directed lifelong learning, leads multidisciplinary control campaigns, and commits to occupational safety and professional ethics. (D1, D2, E1, E2)

 

The Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) are achieved through the integrated delivery of the Plant Protection curriculum across eight academic semesters. The following matrix presents the complete, course-by-course alignment between all 56 courses of the study plan and the Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs), demonstrating how each course contributes to the development of the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies expected of graduates.

Semester Code Course LO#4.A1 LO#4.A2 LO#1.B1 LO#5.B2 LO#3.C1 LO#3.C2 LO#3.C3 LO#2.D1 LO#2.D2 LO#6.E1 LO#6.E2
Semester 1 COM1110 Computer 1 I I I I
Semester 1 HRD1120 Democracy and Human Rights I D I I
Semester 1 ENL1140 English Language 1 I
Semester 1 MAT1150 Mathematics I I I
Semester 1 ETH1160 Agricultural Professional Ethics I I
Semester 1 ENG1170 Engineering Drawing I I I I
Semester 1 TEC1180 Agricultural Engineering Technology Transfer I I I I I
Semester 2 ARB1210 Arabic Language 1 I I
Semester 2 BIO1220 Biosafety and Biosecurity I I I I
Semester 2 STA1230 Agricultural Statistics I I I D
Semester 2 DIV1240 Biodiversity I I I
Semester 2 INF1250 Agricultural Informatics I D I
Semester 2 SUD1260 Sustainable Development I I I I
Semester 2 MKT1270 Agricultural Marketing Technologies I I I D
Semester 3 ARL2310 Arabic Language 2 D D
Semester 3 CRI2320 Crimes of the Ba’ath Regime D D D D
Semester 3 PEST2330 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) D D D D D
Semester 3 AGM2320 Agricultural Microbiology D I D D D
Semester 3 EXP2350 Experimental Design and Analysis D D D D
Semester 3 PROD2360 Agricultural Production Technology D D D D
Semester 3 FOOD2370 Food Technology and Product Safety D D D D D
Semester 4 ENL2410 English Language 2 D D D
Semester 4 COM2420 Computer 2 D D D
Semester 4 MEC2430 Agricultural Production Mechanization Technologies D D D D D
Semester 4 UPM2560 Urban Pest Management D D D D D
Semester 4 INS2450 Beneficial Insects D D D D
Semester 4 MGT2460 Agricultural Engineering Project Management D D D D
Semester 4 WAS2470 Agricultural Waste Treatment Engineering D D D D D
Semester 5 RES3210 Remote Sensing D D D D D
Semester 5 AGC3500 Agricultural Chemistry D D D D D
Semester 5 PLN3510 Plant Nematology D D D D D
Semester 5 ENT3520 Entomology D D D D
Semester 5 PMC3530 Protected Agriculture Pest Management D D D D D
Semester 5 BPD3540 Bacterial Plant Diseases D D D D
Semester 5 MYC3550 Mycology D D D D
Semester 6 DPF3170 Agricultural Facility Design and Planning M M M M M
Semester 6 ITS3570 Insect Classification Systems M M M M M
Semester 6 CMT3580 Commercial Mushroom Production Technology M M M M M
Semester 6 PDM3590 Postharvest Disease Management M M M M M M
Semester 6 PDE3600 Plant Diseases and Epidemiology M M M M M
Semester 6 BIO3610 Biostatistics M M M M
Semester 6 SEM3260 Seminars M M M M M
Semester 7 SPM4620 Stored-Grain Pest Technology M M M M M
Semester 7 CPT4630 Crop Pests and Their Control Technology M M M M M
Semester 7 WCT4320 Weed Control Technology M M M M M
Semester 7 NIP4730 Non-Insect Animal Pests M M M M M
Semester 7 PPM4640 Pesticide Preparation and Management M M M M M
Semester 7 BIT4650 Biological Control Technologies M M M M M
Semester 7 AEP4290 Agricultural Engineering Project 1 M M M M M M M M M M M
Semester 8 AQL4660 Agricultural Quarantine Technologies and Legislation M M M M M
Semester 8 PLV4670 Plant Viruses M M M M
Semester 8 IET4680 Insect Environmental Technologies M M M M M
Semester 8 OPT4690 Orchard Pests and Their Control Technology M M M M M
Semester 8 AGM4700 Agricultural Mites M M M M M
Semester 8 SAT4310 Smart Agriculture Technologies M M M M M
Semester 8 AEP4292 Agricultural Engineering Project 2 M M M M M M M M M M M

Legend: I = Introduction; D = Development; M = Mastery.

Summary of Curriculum Coverage

Level LO#4.A1 LO#4.A2 LO#1.B1 LO#5.B2 LO#3.C1 LO#3.C2 LO#3.C3 LO#2.D1 LO#2.D2 LO#6.E1 LO#6.E2
Introduction (I) 7 2 3 6 3 1 6 4 5 — —
Development (D) 16 1 9 9 8 18 10 8 5 4 5
Mastery (M) 14 6 16 16 18 21 12 2 2 4 3

For more details, please visit the following link      Plant Protection Department

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection are qualified to pursue professional careers in a wide range of public and private sectors, including:

  • The Ministry of Agriculture and its directorates, particularly in crop protection, diagnosis of plant pests and diseases, and integrated pest management.
  • Agricultural quarantine and plant-health departments, participating in the inspection and diagnosis of pests and diseases and the implementation of quarantine procedures.
  • Agricultural and diagnostic laboratories, working on the diagnosis of fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes, and insect pests using morphological, laboratory, and molecular methods.
  • Agricultural research stations and centers, contributing to research on plant diseases, pests, and modern control methods.
  • Private agricultural companies and institutions, particularly companies dealing in pesticides, fertilizers, agricultural supplies, and biological control.
  • Pesticide production and trading companies, in the evaluation and use of pesticides, risk management, and the implementation of integrated pest management programs.
  • Nurseries, greenhouses, and commercial farms, in monitoring, preventing, and managing plant pests and diseases.
  • Grain and crop production, storage, and marketing companies and institutions, in detecting causes of spoilage and disease and reducing storage losses.
  • Institutions engaged in biological control and integrated pest management, through the application of biological alternatives and sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Educational and training institutions, in fields consistent with graduates’ qualifications and applicable regulations.
  • Agricultural and environmental organizations and projects, participating in sustainable pest-management programs and the conservation of plant and environmental health.
  • Independent practice and private agricultural enterprises, through the provision of extension, diagnostic, and consultancy services related to crop protection.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection may pursue postgraduate studies and professional development opportunities in the following areas:

Postgraduate Studies

  • Master’s degree in Plant Protection.
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Plant Protection or any of its specializations.
  • Professional Development
  • Certification programs and specialized professional courses in plant protection and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
  • Professional training in the diagnosis of plant pests and diseases using morphological, microscopic, and molecular methods.
  • Training in the safe and sustainable use of agricultural pesticides and risk management.
  • Training in the production and application of biological control agents within integrated pest-management programs.
  • Training in commercial mushroom production techniques and cultivation.
  • Training in beekeeping management and the production of bee products.
  • Development of skills in statistical analysis and agricultural data management using specialized software.

The Plant Protection Program adopts the examination, assessment, and grading regulations approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR) and the University of Mosul. Student performance is assessed through a variety of continuous and summative assessment methods, including:

  • Continuous assessment (quizzes, assignments, and classroom activities).
  • Midterm examinations.
  • Final examinations.
  • Laboratory reports and diagnostic practical assessments.
  • Field surveys, diagnostic case studies, and disease/pest severity assessments.
  • Oral presentations and seminars.
  • Graduation project assessment (Agricultural Engineering Project 1 & 2).
  • Compliance with academic integrity regulations and institutional policies regarding academic misconduct, cheating, and plagiarism.

To be eligible for the award of the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection, students must successfully fulfill all graduation requirements in accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR) and the University of Mosul, including:

  • Successful completion of all 240 ECTS credits and all compulsory and elective courses specified in the curriculum.
  • Achievement of the minimum graduation requirements, including the required cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA), in accordance with the applicable regulations.
  • Successful completion of the graduation project (Agricultural Engineering Project 1 & 2) and all required laboratory, field, and practical training components.
  • Fulfillment of all academic and administrative requirements for the award of the bachelor’s degree.

The Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program delivered in accordance with the Bologna Process and comprising 240 ECTS credits across eight semesters. The program adopts a student-centered learning approach that integrates theoretical lectures, laboratory diagnostics, field training, engineering design of pest-management programs, undergraduate research, and modern technologies.

Students are trained to utilize advanced diagnostic and analytical tools, including light and electron microscopy, molecular identification techniques (e.g., PCR-based diagnostics), Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing (including NDVI analysis and unmanned aerial vehicles), and emerging artificial-intelligence applications for the early detection of plant pests and diseases. These learning activities are further supported by seminars, technical workshops, field days, and summer training to enhance students’ technical competence, digital skills, and readiness for professional practice in plant protection.

The Program Coordinator is responsible for the overall coordination, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Protection program. The role includes overseeing the implementation of the curriculum, monitoring the achievement of the Program Learning Outcomes, coordinating academic activities among faculty members and students, supervising laboratory and field training activities, and ensuring alignment with the University of Mosul’s quality assurance policies, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR) regulations, and the National Council for Accreditation of Agricultural College Programs   accreditation standards.

The Program Coordinator also supports curriculum review and enhancement to ensure that the program remains responsive to advances in plant protection science, labor-market needs, and emerging diagnostic and management technologies.