Plant Agriculture

Interdepartmental Program
No
Immerse yourself in the art and science of shaping outdoor environments with Iowa State University's Landscape Architecture graduate program. Our program offers a dynamic curriculum that blends design creativity with environmental stewardship and community engagement.
teacher with student

The MLA is an accredited professional degree for students with or without an undergraduate degree in landscape architecture. The degree provides knowledge and skills for students intending to practice or pursue a scholarly career. Graduates meet the academic expectations for professional licensure as measured by the Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board (LAAB).


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Landscape Architecture (M.L.A.)

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.8 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • design sites and landscapes via an iterative design process.
  • design landscapes based on an in-depth understanding of natural, cultural, and social systems
  • produce design work with a knowledge of landscape architectural history and theory
  • communicate design ideas visually and verbally, using a full range of digital and manual methods
  • conduct analytical pre-design site assessments and evaluate completed designs for post-occupancy performance
  • understand and use advanced digital applications and techniques to analyze, visualize and model landscapes and landscape functions
  • produce documentation (plans, specifications, contracts) for project construction based on knowledge of construction standards, legal policies, and an understanding of material qualities
  • undertand quantitative and qualitative research methods and recognize the role of research in design practice
  • understand and practice professional ethics
  • develop professional interpersonal and leadership skills
515-294-3366

Melissa Stenstrom

msten@iastate.edu
Director of Graduate Education, Department of Landscape Architecture
Iowa State University
715 Bissell Road
146 Design
Ames, IA 50011-3094

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

The deadline for completing the full application is January 15. Applications received by the deadline will have the best opportunities for financial assistance. Applications received after January 15 will be reviewed on an individual basis and may not be considered for financial assistance. International applicants should realize that late applications may also delay visa application procedures and prevent fall matriculation. Please contact the Director of Graduate Education (DOGE) if you have exceptional or interesting reasons for not being able to meet the deadline. Spring and summer entry are not available.

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:

  • Resume/CV
  • Writing sample (approx 5-10 pages; e.g., professional report or term paper)
  • Digital portfolio not to exceed 12 pages and 2MB in size. Applicants from the sciences and humanities should not be intimidated by this! Please contact us for information on what to include if you don't have an art/creative background!
  • Three letters of recommendation are required to be submitted electronically with your on-line application.
  • 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 Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
hhohmann@iastate.edu
Program Staff
janders@iastate.edu
msten@iastate.edu
annegn@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Looking for a great place to study? Our graduates safeguard and improve the earth, its resources and its people. Ignite your future here in ABE and design projects, apply solutions and more.
students working in a field

While maintaining our traditional connection to agriculture, our faculty researchers are also developing alternative production systems, leading innovative research for renewable energy sources, developing value-added products and processes, and implementing new methods to improve air and water quality. The ABE department’s research platform is organized into the five focus areas listed below.

Whether you become an agricultural engineer, a biological systems engineer, an agricultural system technologist or an industrial technologist, you’ll find an exciting career in which you can make a difference.

The subjects we cover are diverse, but they all come together in designing and/or managing 21st century technology systems that impact people's lives.


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: 3.9 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.3 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Solve problems and think critically about their focus area
  • Analyze and interpret data
  • Communicate effectively
  • An ability to design and conduct independent research that informs decision making (PhD students)
  • A deep and robust understanding of the relevant literature and problems related to their research (PhD students)
515-294-1033

Kris Bell

abegradinfo@iastate.edu
Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
Graduate Program
1350F Elings Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-3080

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

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

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Statement of Purpose (Indicate field of interest, proposed research area, how this degree will help meet your long-term goals, and how you are prepared to be successful in this area of research)
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
sfreeman@iastate.edu
Program Staff
kabell@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
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.
Three people talking

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.

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) 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
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
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
No
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.
academics-banner

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

Learning Goals

  • Synthesize the scholarly literature in the area of study
  • Articulate research objectives and form testable hypotheses to address knowledge gaps in their field
  • Conduct quantitative and/or qualitative research using appropriate methods
  • Clearly communicate research findings orally and in writing for both scientific and lay audiences
  • Describe and apply ethical and professional standards to their scholarly work
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.

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:

  • 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
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
julieb@iastate.edu
Program Staff
tkporte@iastate.edu
sandras2@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the art and science of food with our graduate program in Food Science and Technology. At Iowa State University, we offer a dynamic curriculum that blends rigorous scientific inquiry with practical application in food processing, safety, and innovation.
Food science and technology

Graduates of Food Science acquire essential skills in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, physics, engineering, nutrition, biology, mathematics, and other disciplines highly sought after in various industries and career fields.


Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Functional Food and Packaging
  • Food Safety and Quality
  • Green and Sustainable Food

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 3.8 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.9 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Apply scientific thinking in the analysis, synthesis and evaluation of knowledge within the discipline of food science, nutritional sciences or dietetics.
  • Apply ethical reasoning within the discipline of food science, nutritional sciences or dietetics.
  • Effectively communicate discipline-specific information in written and oral forms to scientific audiences.
  • Effectively interact within scientific teams.
515-294-6442

Brenda Emery

robynath@iastate.edu
Graduate Program Coordinator
Food Science and Human Nutrition
220 MacKay Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1123

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Graduate applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis contingent on the availability of open positions. All applicants must provide a letter of commitment from a FSHN faculty member before applying to the program.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Resume
  • Letter of Commitment from an FST Graduate Faculty member
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Virtual Tour
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
jotalber@iastate.edu
Program Staff
robynath@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Courses and hands-on experience provide the advanced techniques that will enable you to address environmental and agricultural problems facing our global community. If you’re interested in our graduate program, browse our scientist’s areas of expertise and current research projects. If a subject or project interests you, reach out to that researcher.
Aline Sartor Chicowski

The graduate program in Crop Production and Physiology equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to address pressing challenges in global food production, promoting sustainable and resilient agricultural practices for the future.


Degrees Offered:

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

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

  • Seed Science (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Weed Science (M.S., Ph.D.)

Area(s) of Emphasis:

  • Forages
  • Grain Crops
  • Seed Science
  • Weed Science

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.2 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.3 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of basic and applied knowledge pertaining the physiology and production of agronomic crops.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to better understanding crop production and physiology.
  • Develop skills for the appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data.
  • Interpret research results and integrate them into the existing knowledge of the discipline.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings in traditional and non-traditional forms such as in-person presentations, scientific publications, outreach publications, social media, blogs, video, and webinars.
  • Conduct scholarship, in teams and independently, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-4161

Kevin Desjean

agrongradprograms@iastate.edu
Crop Production and Physiology Graduate Programs
Iowa State University
2101 Agronomy Hall
716 Farm House Lane
Ames, IA 50011-1051

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Continual review, no deadlines for admission or assistantships. Faculty commitment required prior to 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 Emphasis Areas
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No

Related Programs

Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
femiguez@iastate.edu
Program Staff
kdesjean@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The Department’s current Animal Breeding and Genetics group has built on this legacy of excellence and is widely recognized as one of the premier programs nationally and internationally. Recent advances in genomics and the increased utilization of genomics and other big data technologies that require advanced quantitative methods of analysis in other disciplines of the animal and biological sciences have further increased the importance of animal breeding and genetics.
formulas

Iowa State University has a proud history of nine decades of innovative animal genetics and genomics research, education and outreach, which traces back to the pioneering days of Lush and Hazel. Many of today’s animal breeders around the world can trace their academic pedigree back to Iowa State University (see pedigree link).

The Department’s current Animal Breeding and Genetics group has built on this legacy of excellence and is widely recognized as one of the premier programs nationally and internationally. Recent advances in genomics and the increased utilization of genomics and other big data technologies that require advanced quantitative methods of analysis in other disciplines of the animal and biological sciences have further increased the importance of animal breeding and genetics.


Degrees Offered: 

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

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

  • Immunogenetics (Ph.D.)
  • Molecular Genetics (Ph.D.)
  • Quantitative Genetics (Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 3.3 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 Animal Sciences and related disciplines.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to Animal Sciences and related disciplines.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data and information.
  • Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings using written, oral, visual, and electronic means of communication.
  • Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-2160

Rose Mary Ross

rmross@iastate.edu
Department of Animal Science
Graduate Coordinator, 1221 Kildee Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-3150

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

There is no deadline for applications. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year (upon the request of a faculty member) for either a Spring, Summer or Fall semester start.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Statement of Purpose (Goals) Include major program desired, species of interest, preferred faculty advisor(s), research interests
  • Resume/CV
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Any prospective student can apply though we encourage students to reach out to our graduate faculty members prior to application. The application will only be fully reviewed at the request of a faculty member. Successful admission into this thesis-seeking program will require a major professor. An application fee would be due upon admittance.
  • 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) 80
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Certificate Director
ngabler@iastate.edu
Program Staff
coryjw@iastate.edu
rmross@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
New methods of conservation. Improved soil health. New approaches to bioenergy. Improved water quality. Advanced genetic traits. The end goal is producing food, fuel and fiber in a more efficient and economical way for the benefit of people and the environment around the world.
Man crouched in a field looking a leaves

Summary

The Master of Science in Agronomy is a professional degree. This means the program was designed specifically for you, the online learner. The MS in Agronomy is designed for professionals working in industry and government.

To aid in content comprehension, you will interact with the course materials in several different ways (study questions, drag and drops, short videos, “Try this”, calculations, etc.). Instead of lecture videos, you will interact with their instructor in the form of online Office Hours using the Zoom interface.

Typically, you will complete one lesson per week, with assignments, discussions, and reflections due once a week. Students will be required to travel to campus once. This visit will be halfway through the program to attend the practicum (3-4 days), held during July. Students have the option to present their creative component for the final oral exam in-person or virtually.

What to expect

Gain a diverse background in all aspects of agronomy. This includes subject matter in crops, soils, climate, statistics and pest management. The curriculum is organized so you progress in phases:

  • Phase 1 provides more advanced knowledge of agronomy
  • Phase 2 develops management skills
  • Phase 3 integrates both knowledge and management to develop analytical and problem-solving skills

Become a better communicator through a variety of exercises:

  • discussion boards
  • presentations/term projects
  • agronomic consultations/peer review
  • creative component project

MS Agronomy is distance education ONLY. There is NO on-campus equivalent. MS Agronomy students can earn Agronomy Graduate Certificate after completion of 6 specific courses as they work towards the full MS degree. Students interested in on-campus Agronomy majors must choose Crop Production & Physiology, Soil Science, Ag Meteorology or Plant Breeding.

Degrees Offered:

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

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the master’s: 5.3 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Understand the scientific principles underlying crop management and physiology, plant improvement, soil management and fertility, integrated pest management, and the interaction of these principles.
  • Critically evaluate research in terms of design, content, potential application, and limitations with respect to agronomic systems.
  • Apply agronomic knowledge to real-world problems via application of scientific principles.
  • Understand group dynamics and facilitate the accomplishment of individual and collective goals.
  • Communicate effectively with scientists, professionals, farmers, other professionals, and the general public for the purposes of learning and informing.
  • Communicate electronically and utilize various internet information services.
515-294-2999

Brenda Kutz

msagron@iastate.edu
MS Agronomy Admissions
716 Farmhouse Lane
2101 Agronomy Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1051

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

April 1 for fall admission, October 1 for spring admission, However, if you meet all the course prerequisites and have a GPA of 3.2 or above, you can be admitted at any time.

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
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
mwiedenh@iastate.edu
Program Staff
bkutz@iastate.edu
kdesjean@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
krlamkey@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Agronomy is the science and technology of producing plants that serve humans, using practices essential for maintaining and improving life. We commonly use the term crops to refer to these types of plants. Crops can be used for food, feed for livestock, fiber, fuel, and fossil-fuel alternative bioproducts. Agricultural meteorology is one aspect of agronomy.
People in field working with heavy equipment

The Agricultural Meteorology major integrates knowledge from a variety of scientific disciplines in order to determine how cropping systems are affected by weather and climate, and how cropping systems themselves affect weather and climate.


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: 3.6 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.7 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Summarize scholarly work in an area of study, as demonstrated by a literature review in a creative component, thesis, or dissertation.
  • Construct hypotheses and/or objectives that advance disciplinary knowledge, as demonstrated by hypotheses and/or objectives proposed in a creative component, thesis, or dissertation.
  • Conduct quantitative research, as demonstrated by work described in a creative component, thesis, or dissertation.
  • Interpret research results and integrate them into existing disciplinary knowledge, as demonstrated by analyses and conclusions in a creative component, thesis, or dissertation.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally, visually (through the use of images and/or figures), and in writing, as demonstrated by oral presentations, and by the creative component, thesis, or dissertation.
515-294-4161

Kevin Desjean

agrongradprograms@iastate.edu
Agricultural Meteorology Graduate Programs
Iowa State University
2101 Agronomy Hall
716 Farm House Lane
Ames, IA 50011-1051

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Continual review, no deadlines for admission or assistantships; faculty may offer assistantships (they will contact you directly if they have an interest in working with you); we deny admission without a faculty commitment.

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:

  • Publications list if applicable
  • Resume and Publications list should be uploaded as PDFs into the online 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 Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
bkh@iastate.edu
Program Staff
kdesjean@iastate.edu
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