Interdepartmental Program
Yes
Embark on a journey into the microscopic world of microbes with Iowa State University's Microbiology graduate program. Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in microbial research, public health, biotechnology, and industry.
Our program offers both M.S. and Ph. D. degree opportunities in all aspects of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbiology.
Our interdepartmental nature enables a curriculum of breadth, depth, and rigor, and maximizes opportunities for graduate students to pursue the research topic of their choice.
Students in the IM program benefit from individualized courses of study, state-of-the-art facilities and instrumentation, and a supportive community of faculty, staff, and fellow students.
Degrees Offered:
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Master of Science (M.S.)
How long does it take to earn a degree?
- Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.3 years (Methods)
- Median time to earn the master’s: 2.7 years (Methods)
Learning Goals
- Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of Microbiology.
- Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to Microbiology.
- Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of Microbiological data.
- Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline.
- Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing, and often through the use images (tables, figures, and other forms of imagery) and electronic or other forms of media.
- Incorporate academic concepts from Microbiology coursework into laboratory and professional practice.
- Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-9052
Dai Nguyen
microbiology@iastate.edu
Program Homepage
Program Handbook
Application Requirements
Application Deadlines:
December 1 for full consideration for fall assistantships.
Application Details:
This program is open to domestic and international students.
Application Instructions
Admission Requirements
Graduate College Requirements:
- 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Academic Records/Transcripts
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
- Proof of English Proficiency.
Program Specific Requirements:
- Biology or Chemistry subject test score (recommended)
- Research Experience
- Statement of Purpose
- Research Publications
- Program Requires GRE: No
- Program Requires GMAT: No
- Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No
International Requirements:
- Financial Statement: Application
- English Proficiency Minimum:
| TOEFL Paper (PBT) |
550 |
| TOEFL Internet (iBT) |
79 |
| IELTS |
6.5 |
| PTE |
53 |
| Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) |
115 |
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
mmellata@iastate.edu
