Humanities

Interdepartmental Program
No
The cross-disciplinary program in speech communication offers courses designed for all students as part of their general education and as a complement to their professional training. It also offers a minor in speech communication.
Cain Doeden

Students who minor in speech communication will prepare themselves for a wide variety of employment opportunities in business, industry and government, as well as in non-profit and educational organizations. With their effective oral communication, listening, teamwork, problem-solving and leadership skills, speech communication students find positions in general business management: human resources, benefits, financial services, retail, sales and marketing and serve various organizations as recruiters, trainers, promotions managers, communication specialists, community outreach personnel and event planners.


Degrees Offered:

This is a minor.

 

 

Program Degrees Offered
515-294-2180

Craig Rood

rood@iastate.edu

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.

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 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
begray@iastate.edu
Program Staff
rood@iastate.edu
program_contact_email_new
rood@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Immerse yourself in the richness of Hispanic culture and language with our Graduate Spanish Minor program. Ideal for students pursuing advanced degrees in literature, international relations, or education, this program offers comprehensive courses in Spanish language proficiency, literature, and cultural studies.
Spanish

Enhance your communication skills in Spanish while exploring the diverse literary traditions and contemporary issues of the Spanish-speaking world. Whether preparing for academic research or seeking to engage more deeply with global communities, our Graduate Spanish Minor provides a transformative experience that prepares you for diverse professional opportunities in an interconnected world.


Degrees Offered:

  • This is a minor

 

Program Degrees Offered
wlc-advising@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

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.

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 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
rmlooft@iastate.edu
program_contact_email_new
wlc-advising@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Have you ever wondered whether we have free will, whether a particular action is ethical, or what genuine justice would look like? Have you ever wondered whether we really can know anything for certain, or when you have enough evidence to show that something is true? If you have, then you are already interested in philosophy.
Philosophy

Philosophy tries to make sense of human experience and reality through critical reflection and argument. Students in philosophy classes will be exposed to arguments on both sides of such questions, and they will be encouraged to develop and rationally defend their own positions.

The Philosophy unit in the department is home to 18 full-time faculty members who are actively engaged in research and teaching. The program offers a wide range of courses leading to an undergraduate major or minor in Philosophy.


Degrees Offered:

  • Minor

 

Program Degrees Offered

Heimir Geirsson

geirsson@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

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.

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 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
geirsson@iastate.edu
Program Staff
hope@iastate.edu
program_contact_email_new
geirsson@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Immerse yourself in the dynamic intersection of language, culture, and education with Iowa State University's Teaching English as a Second Language/Applied Linguistics graduate program. Designed for educators passionate about language acquisition and cross-cultural communication, our program offers a comprehensive blend of theory and hands-on experience.
Education

The MA in TESL/Applied Linguistics prepares students for careers in teaching English to nonnative speakers of English, either in the U.S. or abroad. Students with MA degrees in TESL teach adults and younger learners in a wide variety of contexts, supervise language programs, work for testing organizations, and create language teaching materials. Students choose among optional specializations listed. The degree requires a minimum of 30 hours of graduate credits, including a final thesis or creative component (3 credits) and meeting a foreign language requirement that may be fulfilled in a number of ways.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Arts (M.A.)

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

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

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate independence, reflective practices and professionalism in teaching and assessment of English as a second language
  • Demonstrate knowledge of and confidence with the use of computer applications relevant to teaching English language teaching
  • Formulate important research questions to for guiding investigations that contribute to theory and practice in one or more areas of applied linguistics
  • Carry out research in one area of applied linguistics that will increase understanding of English language teaching
  • Evaluate research in the field to identify its contribution to theory, research and practice in applied linguistics
  • Communicate ideas, discoveries, and findings to others in a professional and creative manner
  • Collaborate with other professionals to create and investigate new knowledge, practices and products for English language teaching
515-294-2477

Graduate Program Office

englgrad@iastate.edu
English Department
Graduate Program Office
Iowa State University
227 Ross Hall
Ames, IA 50011-1201

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 5 for fall semester entry with financial support consideration. Early applications are encouraged. April 1 (fall entry) and October 15 (spring entry) with no consideration for assistantships, scholarships, or fellowships.

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 68
    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
begray@iastate.edu
Program Staff
tsmiley@iastate.edu
jkilborn@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Collaborate closely with renowned faculty on cutting-edge research in rhetorical analysis, digital communication, writing pedagogy, and professional discourse. Whether your career aspirations lie in academia, technical writing, digital media strategy, or organizational communication, Iowa State provides the expertise and support to thrive in shaping persuasive messages and fostering effective communication practices.
General communication

The MA in Rhetoric, Composition, and Professional Communication (RCPC) prepares students for careers in business, technical, and professional communication in the private and public sectors and for teaching writing and communication at the postsecondary level. It features a wide range of courses on the history, theory, and pedagogy of rhetoric and writing; in communication theory and professional document analysis, design, and production; and on a variety of special topics. An internship in professional communication is also available. The degree requires a minimum of 30 hours of graduate credits including a final thesis or creative component (3 credits). The English Department offers a PhD in Rhetoric and Professional Communication as well.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Arts (M.A.)

 

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Understand the field of rhetoric, composition, and technical communication in the United States and internationally
  • Understand, analyze, and act upon humane and ethical issues, especially as they entail decisions facing professional communicators in business and in the academy situated in an increasingly complex, technological society
  • Apply the historical and theoretical understanding necessary to the discipline to assess the impact of specific technologies upon communication within complex organizations and institutions
  • Synthesize their strategies for problem-solving and their skills in rhetorical analysis in designing, composing, and evaluating professional documents, including those for electronic, networked environments
  • Integrate oral, written, electronic, and visual skills to produce effective professional communication in the contemporary workplace
515-294-2477

Graduate Program Office

englgrad@iastate.edu
English Department
Graduate Program Office
Iowa State University
227 Ross Hall
Ames, IA 50011-1201

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 5 for fall semester entry with financial support consideration. Early applications are encouraged. April 1 (fall entry) and October 15 (spring entry) with no consideration for assistantships, scholarships, or fellowships.

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 68
    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
begray@iastate.edu
Program Staff
tsmiley@iastate.edu
jkilborn@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
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.
Aline Sartor Chicowski

Students in the RATE program address important and enduring questions about rural and agricultural communities throughout world history, technologies developed and employed by these communities, and environmental contexts in which they operate. RATE’s unique focus brings diverse student and faculty interests into dynamic conversation about the past, preparing scholars to share and develop their expertise in a wide range of professional settings.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (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: No data
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate appropriate command of scholarly literature in particular areas of historical study as well as an understanding of basic methodologies of historical study in general.
  • Develop research projects that expand historical knowledge and understanding in particular areas.
  • Conduct research and interpret results appropriately, integrating them into existing disciplinary knowledge.
  • Communicate research findings effectively in both oral and written form, and through the use of other media when appropriate, to a variety of audiences.
  • Exhibit professionalism and correct ethical practices in scholarship and other professional conduct.
  • Cultivate an awareness of the full range of career options available to historians and the applicability of historical knowledge in diverse contexts.
515-294-6646

Kathleen Hilliard

khilliar@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 15 for assistantship consideration

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:

  • Writing sample (20-25 pages) addressed to program director
  • 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
    PTE 68
    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
khilliar@iastate.edu
Program Staff
erandall@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Master the art of effective communication in today's dynamic professional landscapes with Iowa State University's Rhetoric and Professional Communication graduate program. Rooted in the traditions of rhetorical theory and practice, our program prepares students to excel as strategic communicators in diverse organizational settings.
Seemi Choudry

The PhD in Rhetoric and Professional Communication focuses on the rhetorical theory, history, pedagogy, and practice of written, oral, visual, and electronic communication (WOVE) in professional communities, such as business, industry, science, and government. The degree prepares graduates for academic positions in rhetoric, in multimodal composition, and in business, professional, and technical communication, as well as for work in the private and public sectors as professional communication specialists, editors, designers, and communications managers. Candidates are required to complete 72 hours of graduate credit including a dissertation and to pass a portfolio assessment, a preliminary examination (consisting of a written comprehensive examination and a special field examination), and an oral defense of the dissertation. The English Department offers a Master of Arts in Rhetoric, Composition, and Professional Communication as well.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.8 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate understanding and application of theories, research methods, and concepts in rhetoric, professional communication, and multimodal composition
  • Use a variety of technologies and media for designing and implementing effective, audience-centered communication
  • Analyze and critique communication in a variety of organizational and public contexts
  • Synthesize multiple historical and contemporary sources within research projects
  • Design and produce scholarship that makes a significant contribution to the field
515-294-2477

Graduate Program Office

englgrad@iastate.edu
English Department
Graduate Program Office
Iowa State University
227 Ross Hall
Ames, IA 50011-1201

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 5 (once per year for fall semester entry only). Early application completion is encouraged.

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 79
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
begray@iastate.edu
Program Staff
tsmiley@iastate.edu
jkilborn@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Collaborate closely with award-winning faculty on innovative projects in multimedia journalism, public relations, advertising, media ethics, and communication technology. Gain practical experience through internships, media partnerships, and cutting-edge facilities. Whether your aspirations involve reporting on global issues, shaping public opinion, or leading communication strategies for organizations, Iowa State provides the expertise and resources to excel in today's rapidly evolving media landscape.
Graduate-Program-Daniela-office

The mission of the Department of Interior Design is to educate students to become successful designers and scholars who enhance human experience and improve built, cultural, and social environments through interior design.

Our programs are ideal for energetic and inquisitive students who want to study within an energetic field that encourages innovation, creativity, collaboration, and experimentation. Through coursework, hands-on projects, and research activities, our students leave Iowa State ready to tackle any challenge that comes their way.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Science (M.S.)

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Science communication
  • Political communication and social change
  • Multicultural communication
  • Media industries

How long does it take to earn a degree?

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

Learning Goals

  • To develop an understanding of the central issues and current research important to the field of journalism and communication.
  • To be familiar with the breadth and depth of the journalism and communication profession.
  • To be able to communicate acquired knowledge in the field.
  • To be aware of ethical issues that pertain to the field of journalism and communication.
  • To develop the ability to design and present an independent and meaningful research project.
515-294-8344

Michael Dahlstrom

greenlee-masters-program@iastate.edu
Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication Graduate Program
101 Hamilton Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1180

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Rolling examination of applications, but students who wish to be considered for assistantships should submit applications by Feb. 15.

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:

  • Portfolio (recommended
  • 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
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
mfd@iastate.edu
Program Staff
jkilborn@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Immerse yourself in the stories, cultures, and events that have shaped civilizations across the globe with our graduate program in History at Iowa State University. This program offers a deep exploration of historical narratives, methodologies, and critical analysis, preparing students for careers in education, research, public history, and beyond.
history-carousel

Please note that this page is for the general history MA program only. For the more specialized PhD program, please look under Rural, Agricultural, Technological, and Environmental History.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Arts (M.A.)

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.5 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate appropriate command of scholarly literature in particular areas of historical study as well as an understanding of basic methodologies of historical study in general.
  • Develop research projects that expand historical knowledge and understanding in particular areas.
  • Conduct research and interpret results appropriately, integrating them into existing disciplinary knowledge.
  • Communicate research findings effectively in both oral and written form, and through the use of other media when appropriate, to a variety of audiences.
  • Exhibit professionalism and correct ethical practices in scholarship and other professional conduct.
  • Cultivate an awareness of the full range of career options available to historians and the applicability of historical knowledge in diverse contexts.
515-294-6646

Kathleen Hilliard

khilliar@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 15 for assistantship consideration

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:

  • Writing sample to be sent to program Director
  • 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
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
khilliar@iastate.edu
Program Staff
erandall@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The graduate program in English offers advanced study in literature, language, and critical theory, preparing students for careers in academia, writing, publishing, education, and various fields requiring strong analytical and communication skills.
English textbooks on bookshelf Library education background

Iowa State University’s MA Master of Arts (MA) in English program offers two different specializations: one in Literature and one in Literature and the Teaching of Reading. Specialization in Literature: This two-year master of arts MA program offers high-quality, personalized instruction to students interested in secondary or college teaching or in pursuing further graduate study. Our courses develop students’ knowledge of major literary and cinematic trends as well as discipline-specific research skills in the analysis of literature and film; theory and criticism; as well as pedagogy and professionalization. In recent years, we have been able to support nearly every student who has sought funding. Our teaching assistantships are among the best in the Big XII conference with generous stipends, and our incoming students participate in a research apprenticeship program where each is mentored by a faculty member. Our students present at conferences, earn teaching and research awards, and some publish prior to graduation. Specialization in the Literature and the Teaching of Reading: This 30-credit master of arts MA program is designed for licensed teachers who wish to advance their study of literature as they work toward a reading endorsement. Students take graduate courses in British, American, and other areas of literature while also completing three reading courses in Iowa State’s School of Education. Many Most graduate English courses are taught in the late afternoon, evening, or online to accommodate teachers and other working professionals. In these courses, faculty regularly offer options for papers and other assessments that emphasize pedagogy. Additionally, in their 3-credit culminating project, students with this specialization can opt to produce a pedagogy-specific Creative Component or a Portfolio consisting of revised versions of some of their best seminar projects. This program is especially valuable to teachers in the upper elementary, middle school, and high school levels, including teachers of dual-enrollment courses.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Arts (M.A.)

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

  • Literature (M.A.)
  • Literature and the Teaching of Reading (M.A.)

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

  • Expand knowledge related to the study of literature and film that includes a diversity of authors, genres, theories, and cultural-historical contexts
  • Communicate research effectively through oral and written presentations
  • Conduct independent scholarship in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism
  • For graduate students who receive a teaching assistantship, develop strategies for the effective teaching of undergraduate students
515-294-2477

Graduate Program Office

englgrad@iastate.edu
English Department
Graduate Program Office
Iowa State University
227 Ross Hall
Ames, IA 50011-1201

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 5 for fall semester entry with financial support consideration. Early applications are encouraged. April 1 (fall entry) and October 15 (spring entry) with no consideration for assistantships, scholarships, or fellowships

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 7.0
    PTE 68
    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
begray@iastate.edu
Program Staff
tsmiley@iastate.edu
jkilborn@iastate.edu
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