Predictive Plant Phenomics

Specialization Code
P3
Interdepartmental Program
No
Master the art and science of enhancing crop genetics with Iowa State University's Plant Breeding graduate program. Designed for aspiring plant breeders and agricultural scientists, our program offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates cutting-edge research with practical application.
Plant Pathology

Courses and hands-on experience provide the advanced techniques that will enable you to address environmental and agricultural problems facing our global community. If you’re interested in our graduate program, browse our scientist’s areas of expertise and current research projects. If a subject or project interests you, reach out to that researcher. For on-campus graduate students, a faculty member must agree to be your major professor before admission into the program. Those participating in the online distance program will be expected to find a major professor by the 2nd or 3rd semester. Our graduate students are mentored by their major professor, as well as their Program of Study committee which includes a small group of faculty members, one of which must be in a different field of study.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Online Master of Science (M.S.)

Area(s) of Specialization: (may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of study, i.e., plant breeding.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of study.
  • Conduct original research via appropriate data acquisition, analysis, and reporting of 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 appropriate use of display items (tables, figures, and other appropriate types of presentation), electronic or other forms of media.
  • Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-4161

Brenda Kutz (distance students) & Kevin Desjean (campus based students)

agrongradprograms@iastate.edu
Plant Breeding Graduate Programs
Iowa State University
Student Services
2101 Agronomy Hall
716 Farm House Lane
Ames, IA 50011-1051

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Continual review for distance Plant Breeding program. Continual review for campus based Plant Breeding program, no deadlines for admission or assistantships. Faculty commitment required prior to admission in campus based program.

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:

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
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Degree Specialization
Online Degree Information
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
mgsalas@iastate.edu
Program Staff
kdesjean@iastate.edu
bkutz@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
Immerse yourself in the diverse and vital field of plant biology at Iowa State University's Plant Biology graduate program. Designed for passionate scientists and researchers, our program offers an in-depth exploration of plant anatomy, physiology, genetics, ecology, and biotechnology.
Forestry Feature

The Interdepartmental Plant Biology (IPB), previously Interdepartmental Plant Physiology Major (IPPM), educates scientists in basic plant biology, including but not limiting to plant molecular biology, plant cell biology, plant physiology, and plant organismal biology and provides training in the most state of the art methods and technologies. 


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)

Area(s) of Specialization:  (may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 6.3 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.3 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of plant molecular and cellular biology. Measurable Outcomes: 1) Preparation of a research proposal 2) Successful completion of Preliminary Examination 3) Successful defense of the Final Thesis
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of plant biology. Measurable Outcomes: 1) Preparation of a research proposal 2) Successful defense of the Final Thesis 3) Publication of research results in peer-reviewed journal
  • Conduct rigorous research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data, and demonstrate creativity and independence. Measurable Outcomes: 1) Completion of Thesis Research Project 2) Publication of research results in peer-reviewed journal
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing. Measurable Outcomes: 1) Oral and poster presentations at local, regional, and national conferences 2) Publication of research results in peer-reviewed journal 3) Participation in outreach activities
  • Conduct scholarship in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-9052

Dai Nguyen

ipb@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

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:

  • 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
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Degree Specialization
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
myn@iastate.edu
Program Staff
dna112@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Master the principles of mechanical systems and engineering innovation with Iowa State University's Mechanical Engineering graduate program. Our program offers a robust curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in industry, research, and academia. Collaborate closely with renowned faculty on cutting-edge studies in areas such as robotics, advanced materials, renewable energy systems, fluid mechanics, and biomechanics.
FLUIDS scaled

We want to thank you for the opportunity to learn about your career goals and research interests and to highlight how our program can meet your needs. The Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME) offers two major research degrees: a master of science (M.S.) or a doctoral degree (Ph.D.). Our graduate programs offer you the opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research directed at addressing global needs that positively impact society and individual lives. You will work closely with our accomplished faculty in state-of-the-art facilities to achieve scientific breakthroughs and innovative engineering solutions in core ME disciplines. The professional independence, creativity and leadership you will explore in our program will provide you with a rewarding educational experience highly sought after by industry and academia.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Online Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)

Area(s) of Specialization: (may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)

Area(s) of Emphasis:

  • Bioengineering
  • Cyberphysical Systems and AI
  • Complex Fluids
  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Energy and Sustainability

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.6 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.0 years (Methods)

Learning Goals

  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a broad knowledge in the field of Mechanical Engineering.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a deep understanding and expertise in one or more focus areas of Mechanical Engineering.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to develop and demonstrate a strong theoretical and/or experimental and/or computational background through their research projects.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to discuss and apply an understanding of the current literature in mechanical engineering and related disciplines.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to identify fundamental research problems and propose innovative solutions to these problems.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to plan and execute an original research project, analyze the relevant findings, and organize their results into a coherent argument.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to organize research findings into a coherent thesis and will produce scholarship (articles and/or books and/or conference paper) that appear in peer-reviewed venues.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to present and defend their research findings effectively through oral and written presentations and through the development of supporting materials.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to effectively communicate in written, verbal, and nonverbal methods to a broad range of audiences, including the ability to describe complex and technical materials or concepts.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate an understanding of current societal issues, particularly related to the mechanical engineering field.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a commitment to the thoughtful consideration of fundamental principles of ethical professional conduct.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a commitment to the thoughtful consideration of fundamental principles of ethical professional conduct.
515-294-0838

Bri Enearl

megradapp@iastate.edu
If you do not have the ability to upload supplemental materials to your application please email a PDF to megradapp@iastate.edu. Please no paper materials.

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Research based MS and PhD degree February 7 for Fall Admissions and September 1 for Spring Admissions; Coursework only M. Eng. Degree July 15 for Fall and December 1 for Spring admissions. For full consideration, all materials must be submitted by the deadline.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

 

Graduate Admissions Application Information 

 

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:

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
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Degree Specialization
Online Degree Information
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
shrotriy@iastate.edu
Program Staff
benearl@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
shrotriy@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The Computer Engineering program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the dynamic field of computer engineering, fostering innovation and leadership in technology-driven industries.
Student Zhenghan Zhang

The Computer Engineering program integrates advanced theory and practical applications to prepare students for leadership roles in the fields of computer hardware and software systems. This program emphasizes the intersection of hardware and software, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of computing technologies and their real-world applications.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Online Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Online Master of Science (M.S.)

Area(s) of Specialization: (may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Computing and Networking Systems (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)
  • Secure and Reliable Computing (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Software Systems (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Very Large Scale Integration (M.S., Ph.D.)

Area(s) of Emphasis:

  • Information Systems Security/Networking
  • Software Systems
  • VLSI Design

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.2 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.8 years (Methods)

 

 

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate mastery of knowledge and scholarly literature in their fields of study.
  • Understand ethical principles and conduct responsible research
  • Effectively communicate and disseminate their technical contributions.
  • Students pursuing theses/dissertations shall also demonstrate ability to conduct state-of-the-art research and expand the knowledge base in their fields of study
515-294-9162

ECpE Graduate Coordinator

ecpegrad@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

For Fall entry, the funding priority deadline is January 15; for Spring entry, it is September 1. Applications are welcome after these dates, and will receive consideration for remaining admission and funding opportunities.

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:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 570
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 88
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 59
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
plasmon@iastate.edu
Program Staff
vlthorl@iastate.edu
tanolte@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Looking for a great place to study? Our graduates safeguard and improve the earth, its resources and its people. Ignite your future here in ABE and design projects, apply solutions and more.
Student in corn field with robot

Our graduates safeguard and improve the earth, its resources, and its peoples. Whether you become an agricultural engineer, a biological systems engineer, an agricultural system technologist or an industrial technologist, you’ll find an exciting career in which you can make a difference. The subjects we cover are diverse, but they all come together in designing and/or managing 21st century technology systems that impact peoples lives.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)

Area(s) of Specialization: (may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.0 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.9 years (Methods)

Learning Goals

  • Solve problems and think critically about their focus area
  • Analyze and interpret data
  • Communicate effectively
  • An ability to design and conduct independent research that informs decision making (PhD students)
  • A deep and robust understanding of the relevant literature and problems related to their research (PhD students)
515-294-9449

Joanne Kuntz

abegradinfo@iastate.edu
Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
Graduate Program
1320 Elings Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 5011-3080

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

International Applicants should apply for priority consideration by February 2 for fall semester, and July 1 for spring semester. International applicants will be asked to delay their admission to the following spring or fall semester in the following instances: Application for fall semester received after April 1; Application for spring semester received after August 1. Domestic Applicants are encouraged to follow the same application deadlines above to have full consideration for 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:

  • Statement of Purpose (Indicate field of interest, proposed research area, how this degree will help meet your long-term goals, and how you are prepared to be successful in this area of research)
  • 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
Program Virtual Tour
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Degree Specialization
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
sfreeman@iastate.edu
Program Staff
jkuntz@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
sfreeman@iastate.edu
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