Master of Science

Abbreviation
M.S.
Code
MS
Degree Type
Masters
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
No
Delve into the fundamental mysteries of the universe with our graduate program in High Energy Physics at Iowa State University. This program offers advanced studies in particle physics, quantum field theory, cosmology, and the exploration of high-energy phenomena.
Two students

The Master's program in High Energy Physics at Iowa State University offers a transformative academic journey, blending rigorous theoretical foundations with hands-on experimental research opportunities. As a student in our program, you will delve into the complexities of particle interactions, delve into the complexities of particle interactions, delve into the complexities of particle interactions.


Degrees Offered:

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

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.9 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.1 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Conduct original research. Our graduate students will conduct high-quality, original research in a specific field of physics/astronomy. This includes developing the ability to understand scholarly literature, to articulate research objectives, and to interpret research results appropriately.
  • Attain knowledge of physics/astronomy. Our graduate students will obtain a sound foundation in advanced physics/astronomy and in the advanced experimental, observational, and computational techniques required for their research. They will also obtain a broad understanding of other fields of physics/astronomy beyond their research specialty.
  • Develop professionalism. Our graduate students will conduct scholarship and teaching, in teams or independently, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and integrity. They will develop proficiency in written and verbal communication of complex scientific topics at the level required for presenting results in refereed journals and at scientific conferences.
515-294-4936

Charles Kerton or Valerie Arnold

physastro@iastate.edu
Department of Physics and Astronomy, Graduate Admissions
12 Physics Building
2323 Osborn Drive
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1026

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 15th for fall admission

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
kerton@iastate.edu
Program Staff
varnold@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
There are many challenges facing society today. Geoscientists who understand Earth processes, resources, atmosphere, and environments can help address these challenges and are in high demand.
graduate-study-earth-science-scaled

Changing climate, dwindling energy resources, natural hazards, and deteriorating environmental quality are among the most challenging of societal problems. Geoscientists, who study Earth processes and resources to understand and help address these and related issues, are in high demand. A graduate degree in Geology opens the door to career opportunities that involve: work that helps sustain society and protect the planet; innovative technologies; and world travel.


Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Mineralogy
  • Petrology
  • Structural Geology
  • Sedimentary Geology
  • Geoscience Education
  • Paleooceanography
  • Paleoclimatology
  • Geobiology
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • GIS
  • Sclerochronology
  • Seismology
  • Economic Geology
  • Stable Isotope Geochemistry
  • Hydrology
  • Geomorphology
  • Glaciology
  • Paleontology
  • Physical Geography
  • Remote Sensing
  • Geospatial Modeling
  • Sustainability
  • Geophysics
  • Biogeochemistry
  • Geochemistry

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.9 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.8 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of geological sciences.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of geology.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data; Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing, and often through the use images (tables, figures, and other forms of imagery) and electronic or other forms of media.
  • Articulate how the graduate program, including coursework and creative scholarship, fits into life and career goals; and Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-5826

Dr. Elizabeth Swanner

eswanner@iastate.edu
Geology Program Graduate Applications
Department of the Earth, Atmosphere, and Climate
253 Science Hall
2237 Osborn Dr
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1027

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

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

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

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
eswanner@iastate.edu
Program Staff
jadodd@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
kfranz@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
Designed for aspiring biologists and environmental scientists, this program offers a comprehensive exploration of aquatic life, fisheries management, and conservation practices. You'll engage in hands-on research alongside faculty experts, studying fish populations, habitats, and the intricate dynamics of aquatic environments.
owl-forest-hero-image

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


Degrees Offered:

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

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.7 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.6 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

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:

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
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
The graduate program in Event Management prepares students for dynamic careers in planning, organizing, and managing events across various industries, including corporate, hospitality, sports, entertainment, and nonprofit sectors. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to equip students with the expertise needed to create memorable and successful events.
Event management

The Department of Apparel, Events, and Hospitality Management prides itself on having one of the top graduate programs of its kind in the world. The unique combination of expert faculty, top-notch learning laboratories, and rigorous academic training prepares graduate students to enter academia or industry with outstanding credentials. We know that our graduates are making an impact within the apparel, hospitality, and food service industries. Whether they are conducting cutting-edge research or managing world-class operations, Iowa State is proud to call our alums leaders in the field. Each graduate program is listed below.


Degrees Offered:

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

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

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

 

Program Degrees Offered
515-294-5785

Dr. Joan Su

joansu@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Summer/Fall term admission: March 15th. Spring term admission: October 15th. After these deadlines, rolling admissions will be processed based on availability within 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:

  • Statement of purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Copy of transcripts
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
  • 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?
Yes
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
joansu@iastate.edu
Program Staff
sanderse@iastate.edu
akelber@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
The graduate program in Environmental Science offers advanced education and research opportunities in the interdisciplinary study of environmental systems, sustainability, and conservation. This program prepares students for careers in environmental research, policy-making, consulting, education, and advocacy by providing a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues and solutions.
Andrew Rupiper

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


Degrees Offered:

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

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.1 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.3 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • An ability to identify and develop research problems
  • The capacity to think critically and solve problems
  • An ability to provide a critical review of relevant literature/studies in environmental science that are central to their studies
  • Proficiency in data analysis (e.g., data mining, data synthesis)
  • An aptitude to quantitatively assess and interpret a wide-range of environmental data
  • An ability to effectively communicate research problems and research findings in oral and written forms to both the scientific and lay communities
515.294.1191

Lynette Edsall

enscigrad@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

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

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

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?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
isenhart@iastate.edu
Program Staff
camelot@iastate.edu
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