Doctor of Philosophy

Abbreviation
Ph.D.
Code
PHD
Degree Type
Doctoral
Interdepartmental Program
No
Master the art of effective communication in today's dynamic professional landscapes with Iowa State University's Rhetoric and Professional Communication graduate program. Rooted in the traditions of rhetorical theory and practice, our program prepares students to excel as strategic communicators in diverse organizational settings.
Seemi Choudry

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


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

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

Learning Goals

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

Graduate Program Office

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

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

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

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

 

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 587
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 95
    IELTS 7
    PTE 79
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
begray@iastate.edu
Program Staff
tsmiley@iastate.edu
jkilborn@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the complexities of the human mind and behavior with Iowa State University's Psychology graduate program. Rooted in scientific inquiry and practical application, our program offers a diverse range of specializations to suit your interests and career goals.
Lago-gates-students

Psychological science has implications for nearly every aspect of people’s lives. At Iowa State University, world renowned psychologists share their passion for psychology with their students by involving them in groundbreaking research, educating them about solutions to real-world problems, and inspiring them to make a difference.


Degrees Offered:

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

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

  • Cognitive psychology (Ph.D.)
  • Counseling Psychology (Ph.D.)
  • Social psychology (Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.5 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.8 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scientific literature in the student's training area.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that have the potential to lead to significant scientific contributions to the field of study.
  • Conduct quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data.
  • Effectively communicate research findings orally and in writing.
  • Adhere to ethical principles and demonstrate professionalism in research and/or practice.
515-294-1742

Kristine Vicker

psychadm@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Counseling, Cognitive, and Social Psychology - December 1st--No admissions for students seeking only the M.S. degree

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:

  • Supplemental Application (contact psychadm@iastate.edu)
  • 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) 560
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 83
    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
Program Director
cameissn@iastate.edu
Program Staff
laws@iastate.edu
kvicker@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
jonkelly@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Contribute to global animal health and welfare with Iowa State University's Population Sciences in Animal Health graduate program. Designed for aspiring veterinarians, researchers, and public health professionals, our program focuses on understanding and managing animal populations to improve health outcomes
Phillip Gauger, left, and Rahul Nelli in a laboratory in the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. Photo by Christopher Gannon/Iowa State University.

Population Sciences in Animal Health (POPSC) is a cross-disciplinary, research-focused major leading to a PhD degree. The objective of the program is to train future leaders and create/disseminate knowledge in the area of Population Sciences in Animal Health. Program graduates will be prepared to respond to health issues in animal populations through research, education, clinical medicine, extension, and outreach. Program graduates will be prepared to critically assess needs and develop scientifically validated methods to prevent and respond to various aspects affecting animal populations.

 


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy

 

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • This is a research-focused doctoral graduate program aiming to train future leaders and create/disseminate knowledge in the area of Population Sciences in Animal Health. Program graduates will be prepared to critically assess needs and develop scientifically validated methods to prevent and respond to productivity, health and welfare issues in animal populations.
515-294-9358

Dr. Daniel Linhares

linhares@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Applications considered throughout the 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:

  • 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
linhares@iastate.edu
Program Staff
cmpete@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the intricate science of plant health and disease management with Iowa State University's Plant Pathology graduate program. Tailored for aspiring plant scientists and agricultural professionals, our program offers a robust curriculum that integrates advanced research with practical application.
cell
  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in plant pathology.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to knowledge and practice of plant pathology.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate data acquisition and analysis; appropriately interpret results and integrate data into existing knowledge.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate technical and practical information, both orally and in writing, to the scientific community, Extension audiences, and the general public.
  • Conduct scholarship or other professional activities, in teams or independently, in ways that demonstrate and promote ethical practice, and professionalism.

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

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in plant pathology.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to knowledge and practice of plant pathology.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate data acquisition and analysis; appropriately interpret results and integrate data into existing knowledge.
  • Clearly and accurately communicate technical and practical information, both orally and in writing, to the scientific community, Extension audiences, and the general public.
  • Conduct scholarship or other professional activities, in teams or independently, in ways that demonstrate and promote ethical practice, professionalism, diversity and inclusion.
515-294-9052

Dai Nguyen

plantpath@iastate.edu
Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology
207 Science Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1020

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Applications are accepted year round; however, to ensure full consideration for financial support (assistantships and fellowships), applications are due January 1 for Fall admission and August 1 for Spring admission.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

 

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

  • 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
munkvold@iastate.edu
Program Staff
dna112@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
tbaum@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Master the art and science of enhancing crop genetics with Iowa State University's Plant Breeding graduate program. Designed for aspiring plant breeders and agricultural scientists, our program offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates cutting-edge research with practical application.
Plant Pathology

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. For on-campus graduate students, a faculty member must agree to be your major professor before admission into the program. Those participating in the online distance program will be expected to find a major professor by the 2nd or 3rd semester. Our graduate students are mentored by their major professor, as well as their Program of Study committee which includes a small group of faculty members, one of which must be in a different field of study.


Degrees Offered:

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

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

  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of study, i.e., plant breeding.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of study.
  • Conduct original research via appropriate data 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 appropriate use of display items (tables, figures, and other appropriate types of presentation), electronic or other forms of media.
  • Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-4161

Brenda Kutz (distance students) & Kevin Desjean (campus based students)

agrongradprograms@iastate.edu
Plant Breeding Graduate Programs
Iowa State University
Student Services
2101 Agronomy Hall
716 Farm House Lane
Ames, IA 50011-1051

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Continual review for distance Plant Breeding program. Continual review for campus based Plant Breeding program, no deadlines for admission or assistantships. Faculty commitment required prior to admission in campus based 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?
Yes
Degree Specialization
Online Degree Information
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
mgsalas@iastate.edu
Program Staff
kdesjean@iastate.edu
bkutz@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
Immerse yourself in the diverse and vital field of plant biology at Iowa State University's Plant Biology graduate program. Designed for passionate scientists and researchers, our program offers an in-depth exploration of plant anatomy, physiology, genetics, ecology, and biotechnology.
Forestry Feature

The Interdepartmental Plant Biology (IPB), previously Interdepartmental Plant Physiology Major (IPPM), educates scientists in basic plant biology, including but not limiting to plant molecular biology, plant cell biology, plant physiology, and plant organismal biology and provides training in the most state of the art methods and technologies. 


Degrees Offered:

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

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

  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 6.3 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.3 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of plant molecular and cellular biology. Measurable Outcomes: 1) Preparation of a research proposal 2) Successful completion of Preliminary Examination 3) Successful defense of the Final Thesis
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of plant biology. Measurable Outcomes: 1) Preparation of a research proposal 2) Successful defense of the Final Thesis 3) Publication of research results in peer-reviewed journal
  • Conduct rigorous research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data, and demonstrate creativity and independence. Measurable Outcomes: 1) Completion of Thesis Research Project 2) Publication of research results in peer-reviewed journal
  • Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing. Measurable Outcomes: 1) Oral and poster presentations at local, regional, and national conferences 2) Publication of research results in peer-reviewed journal 3) Participation in outreach activities
  • Conduct scholarship in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-9052

Dai Nguyen

ipb@iastate.edu
Program Homepage

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

December 1 for full consideration for fall 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:

  • Research Experience
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Research Publications
  • 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
Degree Specialization
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
myn@iastate.edu
Program Staff
dna112@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Collaborate closely with distinguished faculty on cutting-edge studies in astrophysics, condensed matter physics, high energy physics and nuclear physics. Gain hands-on experience through advanced laboratory experiments, computational modeling, and participation in international research collaborations.
high energy physics

Our graduate program in Physics offers a vibrant and collaborative environment where students engage in cutting-edge research and rigorous academic training across diverse fields of physics. Led by renowned faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields, our program covers a wide range of disciplines, from fundamental theory to applied physics.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree:

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 6.4 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 the advanced experimental, observational, and computational techniques required for their research. They will also get 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:

  • GRE General and Subject Tests are optional
  • Statement of Goals/Interests (if not submitted electronically)
  • All program-required supplemental materials will be uploaded into the online application system as PDF documents. - If you cannot upload, you may email documents to Valerie Arnold (varnold@iastate.edu) or postal mail to the address below.
  • No application fee for the PhD program.
  • 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)    		 FALL 2025-105
    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
Postdoc Contact
kerton@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Rooted in rigorous theoretical analysis and experimental investigation, our program offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers at the forefront of chemical research and innovation. Collaborate closely with esteemed faculty on cutting-edge studies in areas such as spectroscopy, chemical kinetics, surface science, and computational chemistry.
Chemistry

 

The Chemistry program at Iowa State University has a pre-application process. Apply ONLY to Chemistry initially using the departmental online application found on our webpage at www.chem.iastate.edu or above under the Apply Now button. We review your file in house and if you receive an offer of admission and accept, we will pay your application fee to the University.


Degrees Offered:

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

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

  • Biomolecular Science (Ph.D.)
  • Chemical Education (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Chemical Instrumentation (Ph.D.)
  • Forensic Chemistry (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Industrial Chemistry (Ph.D.)
  • Materials Chemistry (Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.6 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 0.8 year (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Have an understanding of the literature in your discipline
  • Identify problems relevant to the sub-field of chemistry
  • Learn to gather, organize, analyze, and report data
  • Develop the skills to test hypotheses and solve research problems
  • Communicate research effectively, in both written and oral forms
515-294-7810

Graduate Student Services

chemgrad@iastate.edu
Chemistry Graduate Admissions
1605 Gilman Hall
2415 Osborn Drive
Ames, IA 50011-1021

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

International deadline: January 15. Domestic deadline: February 1 We do not offer spring admission.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

 

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Departmental on-line application
  • TOEFL scores are REQUIRED for international applicants.
  • 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) 573
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 89
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 60
    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
yjlee@iastate.edu
Program Staff
norvell@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Gain hands-on experience through advanced laboratory techniques, computational methods, and collaborative research projects. Whether your interests lie in drug discovery, sustainable chemistry, polymers, or bioorganic chemistry, Iowa State provides the expertise and resources to excel in advancing the frontiers of organic chemistry and its applications.
Organic chemistry

The Chemistry program at Iowa State University has a pre-application process. Apply ONLY to Chemistry initially using the departmental online application found on our webpage at www.chem.iastate.edu or above under the Apply Now button. We review your file in house and if you receive an offer of admission and accept, we will pay your application fee to the University.


Degrees Offered:

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

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

  • Biomolecular Science (Ph.D.)
  • Chemical Education (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Chemical Instrumentation (Ph.D.)
  • Forensic Chemistry (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Industrial Chemistry (Ph.D.)
  • Materials Chemistry (Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.3 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.0 year (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Have an understanding of the literature in your discipline
  • Identify problems relevant to the sub-field of chemistry
  • Learn to gather, organize, analyze, and report data
  • Develop the skills to test hypotheses and solve research problems
  • Communicate research effectively, in both written and oral forms
515-294-7810

Graduate Student Services

chemgrad@iastate.edu
Chemistry Graduate Admissions
1605 Gilman Hall
2415 Osborn Drive
Ames, IA 50011-1021

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

International deadline: January 15. Domestic deadline: February 1 We do not offer spring admission.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

 

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Departmental on-line application
  • TOEFL scores are REQUIRED for international applicants.
  • 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) 573
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 89
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 60
    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
yjlee@iastate.edu
Program Staff
norvell@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
Explore the intersection of food, health, and well-being with Iowa State University's Nutritional Sciences graduate program. Rooted in scientific inquiry and practical application, our program offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers in nutrition research, public health, clinical practice, and industry.
student working

The Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Nutritional Sciences (IGPNS) integrates information from across 10 disciplines to give students a well-rounded understanding of nutrition and its application: providing the structure for coordinating and enhancing interdisciplinary nutrition research and graduate education. Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Nutritional Sciences are offered with three specializations:

  • Animal nutrition
  • Human nutrition
  • Molecular/biochemical nutrition

Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Specialization: 

(may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Animal Nutrition (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Global Nutrition (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Human Nutrition (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Molecular and Cellular Nutrition (M.S., Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.8 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.9 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Have an in-depth and accurate knowledge and understanding of the field
  • Understand central issues and current research areas that are important in the field
  • Apply theoretical information to solve practical problems
  • Prepare and communicate discipline-specific information in written and oral forms to scientific and lay audiences
  • Design, conduct, and interpret research
  • Facilitate learning in the classroom
515-294-6442

Brenda Emery

robynath@iastate.edu
Graduate Program Coordinator
Nutritional Sciences
220 MacKay Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1123

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 15 application deadline for Fall 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:

  • Applicants are advised to request letters of recommendation from professors and/or employers who are able to describe in detail characteristics and qualifications which predict that the applicant will succeed in graduate school.
  • TOEFL and IELTS scores MUST be valid to be considered for admission.
  • Resume/CV
  • Transcripts
  • 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 Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
kschalin@iastate.edu
Program Staff
robynath@iastate.edu
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