Biological Sciences

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.

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

Plant Agriculture

Predictive Plant Phenomics

Program Department

Plant Biology

Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?

Degree Specialization

Related Programs

Plant Breeding

Plant Pathology

Genetics and Genomics

Program offers a Coursework Only?

Program Director

myn@iastate.edu

Program Staff

dna112@iastate.edu

Interdepartmental Program

Yes

Immerse yourself in the intricate study of the brain and nervous system with Iowa State University's Neuroscience graduate program. Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in neuroscience research, clinical practice, and industry.

The strength of the Neuroscience Program lies in the combined expertise of its diverse faculty. Neuroscience faculty in a variety of disciplines will provide you with flexibility in your choice of a research project and major professor. Other activities and organizations in the program bring faculty and students together and provide opportunities for personal and professional interaction. These interactions are central to our goals, which are to provide broad and robust graduate student training while stimulating excellence in Neuroscience research.

Degrees Offered:

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

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in Neuroscience.
Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to Neuroscience.
Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data.
Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in Neuroscience.
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.
Articulate how the graduate program, including coursework and creative scholarship, fits into life and career goals.
Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.

515-294-6442

Brenda Emery

neuroscience@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 1 for fall admission

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Human Biological Sciences

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:

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) 563

TOEFL Internet (iBT) 85

IELTS 6.5

PTE 57

Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115

Program Interest Area

Program Department

Neuroscience

Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?

Related Programs

Biomedical Sciences

Psychology

Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology

Program offers a Coursework Only?

Program Director

esteg@iastate.edu

Program Staff

robynath@iastate.edu

Interdepartmental Program

Yes

Uncover the intricacies of life at the molecular and cellular levels with Iowa State University's Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology graduate program. Our program offers an integrated curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in biological research, academia, and biotechnology.

The Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology Interdepartmental Graduate Program at Iowa State University is a multidisciplinary major that allows students to explore the mechanisms of life processes in cutting-edge research labs. Our students perform independent research under the guidance of top faculty investigating a diverse range of questions in the sciences of molecular, cellular and developmental biology.

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: 5.8 years (Methods)
Median time to earn the master’s: 2.0 years (Methods)

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of study.
Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of study.
Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate 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 often through the use images (tables, figures, and other forms of imagery) and electronic or other forms of media.
Articulate how the graduate program, including coursework and creative scholarship, fits into life and career goals.
Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.

please e-mail

Carla Harris

mcdb@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

For guaranteed consideration for the Fall semester, please submit your application by December 1st. We do not have an admission cycle for the Spring semester.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

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:

See full list of required Entrance Requirements
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

Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?

Related Programs

Biomedical Sciences

Microbiology

Genetics and Genomics

Program offers a Coursework Only?

Program Director

mgupta@iastate.edu

Program Staff

charris@iastate.edu

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)

Program Degrees Offered

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.

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

Program Interest Area

Program Department

Microbiology

Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?

Related Programs

Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology

Biomedical Sciences

Genetics and Genomics

Program offers a Coursework Only?

Program Director

mmellata@iastate.edu

Program Staff

dna112@iastate.edu

Interdepartmental Program

Yes

Explore the intricate workings of the immune system and its applications in health and disease with Iowa State University's Immunobiology graduate program. Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in immunology research, vaccine development, biomedical sciences, and public health.

The Graduate Major in Immunobiology is an interdepartmental and interdisciplinary training program at Iowa State University that offers the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The Immunobiology training program offers a broad spectrum of Immunobiology research opportunities, ranging from the molecular to the cellular to the systemic level of analysis. The program includes over 40 faculty from the departments of Animal Science; Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology; Biomedical Sciences; Chemical & Biological Engineering; Entomology; Food Science & Human Nutrition; Kinesiology; Natural Resource Ecology & Management; Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Veterinary Diagnostic Production and Animal Medicine; Veterinary Pathology; Veterinary Microbiology & Preventive Medicine; and the National Animal Disease Center. The diversity of faculty expertise ensures a broad education while offering flexibility in choice of specialization.

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: 6.9 years (Methods)
Median time to earn the master’s: 3.3 years (Methods)

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in immunobiology.
Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of immunobiology.
Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data.
Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in immunobiology.
Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing.
Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.

Carla Harris

imbio@iastate.edu

Immunobiology
2014 Molecular Biology Building
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

December 1 for fall admission

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

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:

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) 563

TOEFL Internet (iBT) 85

IELTS 7

PTE 57

Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115

Program Interest Area

Program Department

Immunobiology

Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?

Related Programs

Biomedical Sciences

Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology

Microbiology

Program offers a Coursework Only?

Program Director

mcho@iastate.edu

Program Staff

charris@iastate.edu

Interdepartmental Program

Students engage in hands-on research and practical experiences in state-of-the-art facilities, learning from faculty who are leaders in their fields. Whether your interests lie in plant breeding, greenhouse management, urban agriculture, or environmental horticulture, our program provides the knowledge and skills to thrive in diverse horticultural careers.

We strive to be a graduate major in which inquisitive students meet their educational goals within a stimulating environment for discovery. Top research faculty, excellent facilities, and a supportive, research-focused campus make Iowa State’s graduate program in horticulture an excellent venue for scholarship. Our graduates compete favorably for challenging positions in the job market and have a long-standing tradition of accomplishment in the plant sciences and related professions.

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: 4.6 years (Methods)
Median time to earn the master’s: 2.6 years (Methods)

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

Through coursework and research, be familiar with and understand scholarly literature in the area of study.
Be able to formulate testable hypotheses and justify research objectives.
Conduct laboratory and/or field research by working effectively with appropriate instrumentation, equipment, technologies and experimental systems.
Interpret research results via appropriate acquisition and analysis of data, and integrate them into the existing knowledge in the discipline.
Conduct scholarship, in teams or independently, in ways that demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing through scholarly presentations.

515-294-2751

Rajeev Arora

rarora@iastate.edu

Horticulture
106 Horticulture
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1100

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

No specific deadlines. Applications will be reviewed and processed as received.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

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:

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

Plant Agriculture

Program Department

Horticulture

Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?

Related Programs

Plant Breeding

Agronomy

Crop Production and Physiology

Program offers a Coursework Only?

Program Director

rarora@iastate.edu

Program Staff

kimgaul@iastate.edu

kahein@iastate.edu

Interdepartmental Program

Yes

The Genetics and Genomics program has strong, world-renowned research programs with a faculty rich in diversity, breadth and depth of research opportunities. Faculty have strengths in many areas, from fundamental studies at the molecular, cellular, organismal, and population levels, to research with immediate practical application

The Interdepartmental Genetics and Genomics (IGG) graduate program trains students to become the next generation of practicing geneticists in careers that range across basic and applied sciences. Students enroll in doctor of philosophy [Ph.D.] or master of science [M.S.] degree programs to complete training via a coursework curriculum and through research with a faculty mentor they choose from among fourteen participating departments. The diversity of faculty in the IGG program ensures a broad, well-balanced education from the best instructors while offering flexibility in choice of research specialization. Genetics and Genomics faculty have strengths in many areas, from fundamental studies at the molecular, cellular, organismal, and population levels, to research with immediate practical application. Ongoing research projects span all the major areas of theoretical and experimental genetics, including molecular studies of gene regulation, systems biology, developmental genetics, functional genomics, transposable element studies, quantitative and mathematical genetics, evolutionary genetics and genomics, and population genetics. Consistent with the ISU mission, our graduate students learn to leverage these approaches to address grand challenges in biology and biotechnology related to agriculture, medicine, and other areas. (read more)

Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Emphasis:

Animal
Plant
Molecular
Microbial
Bacterial
Biochemical
Genomics and Metagenomics
Statistical
Developmental
Neurogenetics
Gene Expression
Disease Genetics
Computational
Virology
Evolution and Population Genetics

How long does it take to earn a degree?

Median time to earn the doctorate: 6.0 years (Methods)
Median time to earn the master’s: 1.8 years (Methods)

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of study. 1. Measurable outcomes a. Passing the qualifying exam b. Passing the defense with an appropriately written discussion of the research findings c. Proposed research in the area of study d. Scholarly productivity (papers, posters, grants, etc.)
Plan and conduct research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data. 1. Measurable outcomes a. Passing the prelim b. Passing the dissertation defense c. Publication of research results d. Presentation of conference abstracts (poster) e. Oral presentation of scientific data
Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing. 1. Measurable outcomes a. Talks b. Abstracts c. Posters d. Papers e. Grant proposals

Carla Harris

genetics@iastate.edu

Genetics and Genomics
2014 Molecular Biology
2437 Pammel Drive
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1079

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

For guaranteed consideration for the Fall semester, please submit your application by December 1st. We do not have an admission cycle for the Spring semester.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Genomics and Metagenomics

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 detailing past research experience and present research interests at Iowa State
We would appreciate it if your supplemental materials (resume, research experience, research interests) were submitted as a pdf into the on-line application system.
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

Program Interest Area

Program Emphasis Areas

Evolution and Population Genetics

Program Department

Genetics and Genomics

Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?

Related Programs

Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology

Biomedical Sciences

Microbiology

Program offers a Coursework Only?

Program Director

jselsby@iastate.edu

Program Staff

charris@iastate.edu

Postdoc Contact

ccoffman@iastate.edu

Interdepartmental Program

Immerse yourself in the sustainable management and conservation of our planet's vital forest ecosystems with our graduate degrees in Forestry at Iowa State University. This program offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and managing forests, preparing students for impactful careers in natural resource management, conservation, and environmental sustainability.

Dedicated to the understanding, effective management, and sustainable use of our renewable natural resources through the land-grant missions of teaching, research, and extension.

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: 7.3 years (Methods)
Median time to earn the master’s: 2.6 years (Methods)

Program Degrees Offered

515-294-1739

Sandi Schroeder

nremgradinfo@iastate.edu

Natural Resource Ecology and Management
339 Science II
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-3221

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Rolling

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

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:

If you wish to pursue a degree in Forestry, you should begin by first visiting the Natural Resources Ecology and Management (NREM) web page (https://www.nrem.iastate.edu/) to identify faculty who share your interests. In NREM we do not accept students who haven't first obtained sponsorship from a faculty member. Applicants should contact relevant faculty directly to inquire about graduate positions. Only applications from individuals that are nominated by a faculty member will be considered for admission.
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

Plant Agriculture

Natural Resource Ecology and Management

Program Department

Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?

Related Programs

Environmental Science

Wildlife Ecology

Sustainable Environments

Program offers a Coursework Only?

Program Director

julieb@iastate.edu

Program Staff

tkporte@iastate.edu

sandras2@iastate.edu

Interdepartmental Program

Designed for aspiring biologists and environmental scientists, this program offers a comprehensive exploration of aquatic life, fisheries management, and conservation practices. You'll engage in hands-on research alongside faculty experts, studying fish populations, habitats, and the intricate dynamics of aquatic environments.

Dedicated to the understanding, effective management, and sustainable use of our renewable natural resources through the land-grant missions of teaching, research, and extension.

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: 4.7 years (Methods)
Median time to earn the master’s: 2.6 years (Methods)

Program Degrees Offered

515-294-1739

Sandi Schroeder

nremgradinfo@iastate.edu

Natural Resource Ecology and Management
339 Science II
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-3221

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Fall term - June 15, Spring term - Nov 15, Summer term - March 15.

International students should apply at least three months before the start of term they are applying.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

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:

Three essays (may be uploaded with online application)
Concurrent applicants follow directions on web page
Resume
Duolingo is temporally being accepted instead of TOEFL/IELTS
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) 600

TOEFL Internet (iBT) 100

IELTS 7.5

PTE 68

Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115

Program Interest Area

Animal Sciences

Natural Resource Ecology and Management

Program Department

Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?

Related Programs

Environmental Science

Wildlife Ecology

Animal Science

Program offers a Coursework Only?

Program Director

julieb@iastate.edu

Program Staff

tkporte@iastate.edu

sandras2@iastate.edu

Interdepartmental Program

Yes

The graduate program in Environmental Science offers advanced education and research opportunities in the interdisciplinary study of environmental systems, sustainability, and conservation. This program prepares students for careers in environmental research, policy-making, consulting, education, and advocacy by providing a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues and solutions.

There is strong world demand for scientists, technologists, and engineers with multi-disciplinary training to confront the need for a healthy environment as the global human ecological footprint expands. Whether you are already part of the expanding world of environmental science or are thinking of steering your career toward this exciting, interdisciplinary field, our program will serve your needs. Our students receive top scientific training and diverse professional development opportunities from internationally recognized faculty in world-class facilites. Our graduates are qualified to pursue careers in industry, higher education, and government agencies. We hope you will consider Iowa State University for your graduate studies in environmental science.

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: 5.1 years (Methods)
Median time to earn the master’s: 2.3 years (Methods)

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

An ability to identify and develop research problems
The capacity to think critically and solve problems
An ability to provide a critical review of relevant literature/studies in environmental science that are central to their studies
Proficiency in data analysis (e.g., data mining, data synthesis)
An aptitude to quantitatively assess and interpret a wide-range of environmental data
An ability to effectively communicate research problems and research findings in oral and written forms to both the scientific and lay communities

515.294.1191

Lynette Edsall

enscigrad@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

December 15 for priority Fellowship consideration. NOTE: from fall 2024 on, please choose ONLY the Environmental Science Graduate Major when you apply. Environmental Science is a direct-admit graduate program, where students are admitted into the lab of a major professor as well as into the ENSCI program. As such it is imperative that prospective students identify a potential professor before applying to the program. Applicants should review our faculty directory to identify research faculty working in areas that align with their interests and goals. Once relevant faculty members have been identified, applicants should contact those faculty directly to inquire about open graduate positions and funding opportunities for their planned term of entry. Only applicants that contact faculty, apply for the program and are then nominated by a faculty member will be considered for admission to the program.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.