Social Sciences

Interdepartmental Program
No
Dive into the study of governance, politics, and policy with Iowa State University's Political Science graduate program. Rooted in rigorous academic inquiry and practical application, our program offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers in government, academia, and public service.
architecture

Politics shapes all of our lives in significant ways, and the study of political science helps the world see beyond simplistic talking points and understand the impact of policy and its players. As a political science major or minor, you can pursue a track that matches your career goals – whether they center around law, campaigns, international policy, private enterprise, or even environmental policy.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Arts (M.A.)

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • American Politics
  • Global Politics
  • Public Policy

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

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in political science or public policy. (Thesis Students) OR Demonstrate the ability to apply the scholarly literature in political science and public policy to practical issues in the public sector. (Creative Component Students)
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of study. (Thesis Students) OR Demonstrate understanding of the difficulties and complexities of implementing public policy in practice.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data. (Thesis Students)
  • Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline of political science or public policy.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing, and often through the use images (tables, figures, and other forms of imagery) and electronic or other forms of media.
  • Articulate how the graduate program, including coursework and creative scholarship, fits into life and career goals.
  • Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-7256

Mack Shelley, University Professor and Graduate Director

mshelley@iastate.edu
Political Science Graduate Program
503 Ross Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1204

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Fall semester/financial aid: March 1; Fall semester/no aid: May 1; Summer semester: March 1; Spring semester: October 1

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) 563
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 85
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 57
    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
mshelley@iastate.edu
Program Staff
erandall@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
Deepen your understanding of human growth, development, and relationships with Iowa State University's Human Development and Family Studies graduate program. Our program offers a multidisciplinary curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in research, counseling, family therapy, social services, and policy development.
Child development

The graduate programs are structured to allow graduate students to custom design their own program of study (POS). Other than core requirements, students, with approval of their Program of Study Committee, may select from all available graduate coursework to complete the degree. This flexible option is designed to meet the unique needs of our graduate students looking for interdisciplinary curriculum and research:


Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Adolecent/youth development
  • adult development and aging
  • family studies and policy
  • family economic well-being and financial planning
  • heath and well-being
  • infant and child development
  • lifespan development
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Obtain broad understanding of the scholarly literature in Human Development and Family Studies and a comprehensive understanding of the scholarly literature in area of expertise.
  • Form testable hypotheses/anticipated hypothesized relationships and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of study.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition analysis, and reporting of data.
  • Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally, in writing and with appropriate use of images (e.g., tables, figures) and media.
  • Articulate how the graduate program, including coursework and creative scholarship facilitates meets life and career goals.
  • Conduct scholarship, in teams and independently, that consistently demonstrates ethical practice and professionalism.
  • Participate in professional, university and/or community related service.
  • Demonstrate effectiveness in teaching university courses (doctoral students).
515 294 8502

Tricia Neppl

hdfs-grad-adm@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Priority Deadline: December 1, 2022 – Applicants whose materials are received by this date will be given priority review for assistantship appointments and scholarships. Final Deadline: January 2, 2023 – The final day to submit application materials for 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:

  • Copy of your CV/Resume is needed by department. Please upload within your online application.
  • Statement of Purpose
  • 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

Related Programs

Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
tneppl@iastate.edu
Program Staff
dhbarnes@iastate.edu
mjmccunn@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
tneppl@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
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
Yes
Prepare for a rewarding career addressing the needs and challenges of aging populations with our Master's program in Gerontology at Iowa State University. This interdisciplinary program provides a comprehensive understanding of the aging process, including social, psychological, and biological aspects.
children-youth-family

The world is witnessing tremendous growth of the population aged 65 and older:

  • The oldest-old (85+) are proportionately the fastest growing segment of the population.
  • By 2050, 1 in 4 people will be aged 65+.

Iowa is at the forefront of this aging revolution as one of the oldest states in the country. Older adults are a diverse group with varied backgrounds, preferences, and needs, and you  can have a direct, immediate impact working with this population. 


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: 4.2 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.3 years (Methods)
515-294-3028

Dr. Jennifer Margrett

margrett@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) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
margrett@iastate.edu
Program Staff
margrett@iastate.edu
dhbarnes@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The College of Human Sciences offers a Master of Family and Consumer Sciences (MFSC) degree (non-thesis) or students may choose an online specialization from the various departments within the college. 
People by railing talking

The Master of Family and Consumer Sciences degree specialization track in HDFS provides students with the opportunity to enhance their background knowledge and skills for working with children and families. Specifically, the objectives of this track allow students to:

  • Obtain knowledge of basic theory and research methods in human development and family studies
  • Acquire basic tools in statistics for informed consumption of research

A variety of opportunities exist for employment in human service agencies, child care centers, intervention programs, outreach, personal and financial resource management, and careers related to housing needs. Each program is individualized to optimize the existing background of the student for further development and expansion of skills and knowledge. Students with backgrounds in child/human development, family studies, education, psychology, sociology, and economics may find a good fit in the department for their academic goals. The requirements for the MFCS degree with program in human development and family studies includes 19 credits in theories and research methods and 18 credits in other HDFS courses. A written final exam is also required.

Achieve your personal and professional goals through convenient, flexible, high-quality coursework you can complete anytime, anywhere. As an Innovative Digital Education Alliance (IDEA) student at Iowa State University, you will learn from expert faculty who bring real-life experience to the coursework and are committed to helping you transition your learning beyond the online classroom into your career.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Family & Consumer Sciences (M.F.S.)
  • Online Master of Family & Consumer Sciences (M.F.S.)

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

  • Dietetics (M.F.S.)
  • Family Financial Planning (M.F.S.)
  • Family and Consumer Sciences Education (M.F.S.)
  • Gerontology (M.F.S.)
  • Human Development and Family Studies (M.F.S.)
  • Youth Development (M.F.S.)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Family Financial Planning Goal #1: Construction of a professional, comprehensive financial plan
  • Family Financial Planning Goal #2: Implementation of ethical standards in financial planning as prescribed by the CFP Board of Standards.
  • Family Financial Planning Goal #3: Demonstration of listening and counseling skills needed to help families with financial management.
  • Youth Development Goal #1: Articulate the rationale and efficacy of the Positive Youth Development (PYD) approach.
  • Youth Development Goal #2: Articulate developmental processes and the influences of context on youth.
  • Youth Development Goal #3: Apply research, theory, and evidence-informed practice for effective youth programming.
  • Youth Development Goal #4: Promote inclusivity in youth practice.
  • Youth Development Goal #5: Develop, manage, evaluate, and sustain PYD programs.
515-294-3916

Iowa State Online

idea@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Applications for our FCS programs are accepted year-round.

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 Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Online Degree Information
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
margrett@iastate.edu
Program Staff
sarendt@iastate.edu
rogo@iastate.edu
mdirth@iastate.edu
gildaf@iastate.edu
drw1@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The Economics program offers advanced training in economic theory, quantitative methods, and applied research, preparing students for careers in academia, government, international organizations, and the private sector. This program emphasizes analytical rigor, empirical analysis, and the application of economic principles to address global economic challenges.
CJ Carter

 

The Department of Economics at Iowa State University presents a unique tradition of excellence in graduate education, overseeing a Ph.D. Program in both economics and agricultural economics.


Degrees Offered:

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

 

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

Ph.D Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in economics and an ability to critically evaluate it.
  • Articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to economic knowledge.
  • Effectively apply theory and qualitative and quantitative empirical methods to address research questions; understand how to acquire, analyze, and report data.
  • Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into existing knowledge in the discipline.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing.
  • Always conduct scholarship, whether independently or in teams, in ways that reflect ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-2702

Amy Bainum Emmett515-294-2702

econgrad@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 15 of the year you are seeking fall admission. We do not offer spring or summer 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) 570
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 88
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 59
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 120
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
bkreider@iastate.edu
Program Staff
abainum@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
jlrosenb@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The Diet and Exercise program integrates advanced scientific knowledge with practical skills in nutrition, exercise physiology, and health promotion. This program is designed for individuals aspiring to become registered dietitians, exercise physiologists, wellness coaches, or pursue further studies in related health professions.
Dietetics

This program provides a rigorous academic foundation and practical experience to empower graduates to improve health outcomes through nutrition and exercise interventions, preparing them for leadership roles in promoting wellness and preventing chronic disease.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Science (M.S.)

 

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

  • Demonstrate understanding and technical competency in the fundamental principles and concepts of nutrition and exercise science.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in interpersonal communication and the ability to work successfully in teams to solve multidisciplinary problems.
  • Effectively prepare and deliver technical information to food science/human nutrition and exercise science professionals as well as to the general public.
  • Find, evaluate, and accurately interpret research literature.
  • Critically evaluate information, including the ability to distinguish verifiable facts from value claims, detect bias, and identify sources of conflicts.
  • Understand the dimensions of issues facing professionals in the field of nutrition and exercise science, including ethical, cultural, and environmental components.
  • Identify important health-related interactions between dietary nutrients and exercise used to assess and design dietary and exercise programs for maintenance of optimal health.
  • Evaluate and synthesize metabolic, dietary, and exercise research to devise advanced strategies in exercise and dietary intervention.
  • Design, conduct, and interpret research.
  • Apply theoretical information to solve practical problems.
  • Submit a paper for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
515 294-9770

Peter Clark

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

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

October 1 of junior year

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
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
pjclark@iastate.edu
Program Staff
robynath@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The Master of Community and Regional Planning (MCRP) degree prepares students with the education and practical skills to be leaders in the practice of planning. The program concentrates on land use and transportation, community design and development, and rural and environmental planning. Students may design their own area of concentration with the assistance of their major professor.
hilton

The professionally accredited, STEM-designated, and nationally ranked Master of Community and Regional Planning (MCRP) 48-credit degree provides areas of concentration in land use and transportation, community design and development, and rural and environmental planning. Students may design their own area of concentration with the assistance of their major professor.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Community of Regional Planning (M.C.R.P)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

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

Learning Goals

  • Graduates of the program will apply knowledge of the purpose and history of planning to analyze contemporary planning issues and scholarship.
  • Graduates of the program will demonstrate a working knowledge of planning law and local government institutions regarding how plans and policies are developed and implemented.
  • Graduates of the program will be able to evaluate a planning process; critically analyze how social, cultural, and economic forces influence land use changes; be able to create alternative scenarios for the future; and have experience applying these ideas through active learning and real-life experiences.
  • Graduates of the program will have a working knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative methods and demonstrate their ability to apply these methods to planning problems.
  • Graduates of the program will engage communities, identify a range of tools that can be applied to different situations, and demonstrate their ability to expand participation, ensure inclusion, and give voice to diverse stakeholders.
  • Graduates of the program will demonstrate professional written, oral and visual communication skills utilizing multiple forms of media within a variety of educational and community settings.
  • Graduates of the program will demonstrate their knowledge and ability to create sustainable and resilient communities within a changing world.
  • Graduates of the program will demonstrate their ability to make strategic decisions, evaluate projects, and analyze policies.
  • Graduates of the program will conduct, in teams or independently, research that analyzes and evaluates a planning issue and proposes new ideas or potential solutions.
515-294-3366

Melissa Stenstrom

msten@iastate.edu
Student Recruiter I
Iowa State University
159 College of Design
Ames, IA 50011-3094

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Deadline for priority consideration is Feb. 1 for fall entry. The Department will continue reviewing until program is full.

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:

  • Three letters of recommendation are required to be submitted electronically with your on-line application.
  • OPTIONAL-supporting information will be accepted by email in .PDF format. Submit with your full name as listed on your 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
haddad@iastate.edu
Program Staff
msten@iastate.edu
janders@iastate.edu
annegn@iastate.edu
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