Computational

Interdepartmental Program
No
The Department of Community and Regional Planning offers a multidisciplinary graduate certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Designed for professionals seeking to expand their expertise or enter the field of GIS, our certificate offers practical, hands-on training in the latest GIS software and techniques.
GIS, Geographic information system technology style with text

The GIS Certificate Program is open to graduate students in all disciplines of the university. Students must complete a minimum of 13 graduate credits of GIS coursework to receive the certificate. In addition, students must maintain a grade-point average of B or higher in these courses.

 


Degrees Offered:

Certificate

 

Program Degrees Offered
515-294-8979

Monica A. Haddad

haddad@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

July 1(Fall); Dec 1 (Spring); and Apr 1 (Summer)

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
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Certificate Director
haddad@iastate.edu
Program Staff
annegn@iastate.edu
janders@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Navigate the intersection of technology and business strategy with Iowa State University's Information Systems graduate program. Our program offers a robust curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in information technology management, data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital innovation.
Yadav-Jyothi

The master of science in information systems (MSIS) program gives you the tools you need to take your career to the next level. As an MSIS student, you will learn how to bridge the gap between business and technology — solving business problems using cutting-edge IT solutions.  

Graduates of our program are bilingual in IT and business and are highly sought after by employers. This is residential program that offers flexible delivery methods, both online and in-person.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Science (M.S.)

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.8 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Teamwork effectiveness
  • Critical thinking
  • Written Communication
  • Ethics
  • Oral Communication
515-294-8118

Sam Sivaskandan (Master's) & Emily Meeks (PhD)

samsivas@iastate.edu & emeeks@iastate.edu
Iowa State University
Dr Charles B Handy Graduate Programs Office
1420 Gerdin Business Building
2167 Union Drive
Ames, IA 50011-2027

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Admission is granted for the fall, spring or summer. Deadlines: June 15 for Fall, November 15 for Spring, and March 15 for Summer. *We encourage international students to apply at least three months before the start of the term they are applying for.

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) 600
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 100
    IELTS 7.5
    PTE 68
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2025) 120
Program Interest Area
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
ruichen@iastate.edu
Program Staff
slwilson@iastate.edu
lacyg@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
Explore the dynamic intersection of technology, design, and human behavior with Iowa State University's Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) graduate program. Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theory with hands-on practice to prepare students for careers in user experience (UX) design, interaction design, usability engineering, and research in HCI.
VR

The HCI graduate major reflects a broad recognition in academia and industry of the need to train researchers to meet the challenges created by today’s breakneck pace of technological progress. HCI graduate students benefit from interacting with ISU faculty from departments representing every college in the University as well as researchers at the Virtual Reality Applications Center.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Master of Human Computer Interaction (M.H.C.I.)
  • Online Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Online Master of Human Computer Interaction (M.H.C.I.)

 

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: 1.6 years (Methods)

Learning Goals

  • Design and evaluate systems with a user-centered design lens
  • Participate in a multidisciplinary product development team
  • Choose and apply an appropriate user-centered design approach
  • Identify key players and organizations in HCI
  • Use theories and models in the HCI field
  • Describe emerging technology trends
515-294-2089

Tiffany Kayser

info@hci.iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

MS and Ph.D. degree January 15 for Fall Admissions and September 1 for Spring admissions; Online Master of HCI is July 15 for Fall, December 15 for Spring, and April 15 for Summer admission. For full consideration, all materials must be submitted by the deadline.

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) 587
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 95
    IELTS 7
    PTE 65
    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
gilbert@iastate.edu
Program Staff
labagley@iastate.edu
tlkayser@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
Scientist working

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.

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 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 Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
jselsby@iastate.edu
Program Staff
charris@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
ccoffman@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
Iowa State University and the Center for Cybersecurity Innovation & Outreach offer several options for those interested in advancing their cybersecurity education. The graduate degrees we offer are designed to cater to those with several levels of IT or computing experience.
Students working at computers

Created in 2000 as a multidisciplinary center, the Center for Cybersecurity Innovation & Outreach (CyIO) strives to become a nationally recognized authority in cybersecurity research, teaching and outreach. The Center represents several departments across campus—including Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Political Science, Management Information Systems and Computer Science—to respond to the needs of students and the priorities of funding agencies.

As the attention toward cybersecurity increase, CyIO is prepared to act on the available opportunities and enhance awareness of cybersecurity issues facing our home and the world.

The Center obtained designation of National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE-C) Education by the National Security Agency four times since 1999.


Degrees Offered: 

  • Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Online Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Online Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Certificate

Certificate Information

How long does it take to earn a degree?

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

Learning Goals

  • Impart and enhance knowledge about information infrastructure security;
  • Expand and develop ability to engineer complex systems;
  • Instill and nurture social awareness, and the ability to function in a team;
  • Instill and nurture a sense of ethics;
  • Develop an understanding of strategic and policy issues.
515-294-9162

Cyber Security Graduate Coordinator

cyber@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

For applicants who require a visa to study on-campus: May 1 for fall admission, September 1 for spring admission. For U.S. applicants or distance-program applicants: July 15 for fall admission; December 1 for spring admission.

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
Online Degree Information
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
dougj@iastate.edu
Program Staff
vlthorl@iastate.edu
tanolte@iastate.edu
staceyr@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Our highly regarded academics, groundbreaking research, and supportive environment makes Iowa State’s Department of Computer Science an exceptional place to pursue an advanced degree with immediate career applications.
Coover lab

The Department of Computer Science offers a M.S. and Ph.D. in Computer Science as well as a M.S. in Artificial Intelligence.


Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
  • Human Computer Interaction
  • Robotics and Autonomous Systems
  • Software Engineering and Programming Languages
  • Systems and Networking
  • Theoretical Foundations

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: 2.3 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Master core areas of Computer Science (MS, PhD)
  • Achieve in-depth knowledge in chosen subfield of Computer Science (PhD)
  • Obtain expertise to perform original research that advances Computer Science (PhD)
  • Demonstrate ability to communicate technical concepts and research results (MS, PhD)
515-294-5779

Department of Computer Science Graduate Admissions

csadmissions@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

See detailed deadlines for Spring 2025 applications at www.cs.iastate.edu/future-students. Fall 2025 applications will open September 1, 2024.

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:

  • Current Resume/CV
  • Unofficial transcripts from ALL universities/colleges attended - Please include the original language and an English translation. Consolidated transcripts are allowed if they show all tests and exams, including retakes. Please include the grading scale for your university/college. World Education Services (WES) and Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) evaluations of international transcripts are accepted starting with Fall 2024 applications.
  • Unofficial degree statement(s) - this isn't required if your degree is still in progress.
  • (3) Letters of Recommendation (LOR) - the application system will automatically send a recommendation request to the email address you provide for each recommender. Please reach out to csadmissions@iastate.edu with any issues related to the letters of recommendation.
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) - click here for guidance on writing the SOP.
  • GRE scores - click here for information about the GRE requirement, including applying for a GRE waiver
  • English Proficiency for International Applicants - click here for accept tests and minimum requirements
  • Passport/Immigration card - you can wait to upload this until you receive the admission decision.
  • Financial Support Documents - you can wait to upload this until you receive the admission decision. Please submit a bank statement and/or letter from an official sponsorship agency (including government) showing equivalent to one year's expenses. If you have any government or other scholarships, please include the letter. The amount you need to show can be found at https://isso.dso.iastate.edu/resources/students_scholars/expense-worksheet/graduate-expenses. The form at https://iastate.app.box.com/v/intl-finstatement may be helpful in planning your financial documents.
  • MS Application Deadlines
  • PhD Application Deadlines
  • Application Fee - we offer a delayed payment of the application fee. Admitted applicants who accept their offer of admission will pay the fee on their first university bill (u-bill) after enrolling in classes. All other applicants (those who are not admitted and those who do not accept their admission offer) are not required to pay an application fee.
  • Program Requires GRE: Yes
  • 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
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
sbasu@iastate.edu
Program Staff
nlewis1@iastate.edu
janeller@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
pavan@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The Graduate Certificate in Computer Networking equips students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of computer networking, preparing them for successful careers in IT infrastructure management and cybersecurity.
Daniel Ayisi Nyarko

The Graduate Certificate in Computer Networking offers specialized training in the design, implementation, and management of computer networks. This program is designed for IT professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in networking technologies, security protocols, and network administration.


Degrees Offered:

  • Certificate
Program Degrees Offered
515-294-9162

Vicky Thorland-Oster

ecpe_grad_questions@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

 No deadline. Rolling admission.

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:

  • 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) 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
Certificate Director
zambreno@iastate.edu
Program Staff
vlthorl@iastate.edu
awmoore@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
Take your career to new heights in our data-driven world with an affordable master’s program that combines leading-edge analytics and critical business skills. Together, with our internationally known faculty and hallmark fusion of theory and practice, you will discover how to obtain and manage data, apply analytical tools, and generate results-focused insights.
An analyst uses a computer and dashboard for data business analysis and Data Management System with KPI and metrics connected to the database for technology finance, operations, sales.

Take your career to new heights in our data-driven world with an affordable master’s program that combines leading-edge analytics and critical business skills. Together, with our internationally known faculty and hallmark fusion of theory and practice, you will discover how to obtain and manage data, apply analytical tools, and generate results-focused insights.

We will build on your core expertise and equip you to develop statistically-informed strategies and leverage big data to drive performance and gain a competitive advantage throughout your career.

There are two pathways available for completing this program.

  • Online program: Designed for working professionals, this 100 percent online program will give you the skills to advance your career and the flexibility to take courses from anywhere. Students in this program may only take online courses and tuition is $782 + fees per credit hour.
  • Residential, in-person: The full-time, on-campus option is designed to meet the needs of recent undergraduates and experienced professionals, both domestic and international students. Students in this program will be assessed tuition based on their residency (i.e., in-state, out-of-state, and international).

Degrees Offered: 

  • Master of Business Analytics (M.B.S.)
  • Online Master of Business Analytics (M.B.S.)
  • Certificate

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.0 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Understand and apply quantitative modeling techniques
  • Design cross-functional solutions for business problems
  • Evaluate data analytic methods and technologies
  • Develop skills in modeling and quantifying in unstructured or new environments
  • Develop team and project management skills in a Big Data context
  • Communicate analytical findings effectively orally and in writing
515 294-8118

Kim Putz

kputz@iastate.edu
Iowa State University
Dr. Charles B Handy Graduate Programs Office
1420 Gerdin Business Building
2167 Union Drive
Ames, IA 50011-2027


Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Admission is granted for the fall, spring or summer. Deadlines for residential/on-campus program: June 15 for Fall, November 15 for Spring, and March 15 for Summer. Deadlines for online program: Deadlines for residential/on-campus program: June 15 for Fall, November 15 for Spring, and March 15 for Summer.

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:

  • 2 letters of support from employer or supervisor
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume
  • 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) 120
Program Virtual Tour
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Online Degree Information
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
lyuan@iastate.edu
Program Staff
slwilson@iastate.edu
rogo@iastate.edu
svanvark@iastate.edu
lacyg@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
The Iowa State University Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (BCB) Program offers Ph.D. training at the intersections of Biological, Computing and Information Sciences. BCB alums have achieved superior outcomes in the academic, industrial and public sectors.
Poster presentation

At ISU we are dedicated to your success as a graduate student. As a first step, we have collected information on application requirements as well as links where you can find further information. We encourage you to explore.


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.)

Area(s) of Emphasis:

  • Structural Bioinformatics
  • Comparative Genomics
  • Transcriptomics
  • Proteomics
  • Metabolomics
  • Machine Learning
  • Image Processing
  • Biological Data Mining

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: 0.7 year (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Be able to formulate a research question, devise a plan to answer it, and independently implement it, as evidenced by passing their preliminary exam and the dissertation defense.
  • Have a minimum of one paper submitted to a peer-reviewed journal. The manuscript should be directly related to their dissertation project, and they should have contributed a substantial part of the work and authorship. However, the expectation is that a typical dissertation consists of 2-4 independently publishable manuscripts.
  • Be able to communicate science clearly as evidenced by oral presentations, poster presentations, and the writing of articles, grant proposals, or both.
  • Be able to program: develop and encode methods for data discovery and/or analysis (as opposed to the exclusive deployment of existing software and tools for computational analyses).
  • Be experts in both the biological and computational components of their fields of study.
  • Meeting these expectations is built into BCB course requirements and POS committee expectations. The major professor, or the major professor and co-major professor jointly, must be competent to oversee the interdisciplinary research required of students. Care should be taken that each student supervised in the program shall be able to receive unhindered guidance in both fields, to best serve the program’s requirements.
Carla Harris

Carla Harris

bcb@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

For guaranteed Fall consideration, please submit your application no later than December 1st . We will continue reviewing applications until all openings are filled. For Spring admission check with program for funding availability.

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) 610
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 7.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
mhufford@iastate.edu
Program Staff
charris@iastate.edu
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