Doctor of Philosophy

Abbreviation
Ph.D.
Code
PHD
Degree Type
Doctoral
Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the complexities of nuclear science and its applications with Iowa State University's Nuclear Physics graduate program. Our program offers a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for careers at the forefront of nuclear research and technology.
nuclear physics

Our program offers a dynamic and comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of Nuclear Physics. With a rich tradition of academic excellence and cutting-edge research, our faculty are leaders in their respective areas, covering a broad spectrum of nuclear physics, from theoretical models to experimental techniques.


Degrees Offered:

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

 

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:

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

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

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 600
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 100
    IELTS 7.5
    PTE 68
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
kerton@iastate.edu
Program Staff
varnold@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
Immerse yourself in the intricate study of the brain and nervous system with Iowa State University's Neuroscience graduate program. Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in neuroscience research, clinical practice, and industry.
Neuro graduate students

The strength of the Neuroscience Program lies in the combined expertise of its diverse faculty.  Neuroscience faculty in a variety of disciplines will provide you with flexibility in your choice of a research project and major professor.  Other activities and organizations in the program bring faculty and students together and provide opportunities for personal and professional interaction.  These interactions are central to our goals, which are to provide broad and robust graduate student training while stimulating excellence in Neuroscience research.


Degrees Offered:

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

 

Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in Neuroscience.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to Neuroscience.
  • 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 Neuroscience.
  • 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.
515-294-6442

Brenda Emery

neuroscience@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 1 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:

  • 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 Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
esteg@iastate.edu
Program Staff
robynath@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
Uncover the intricacies of life at the molecular and cellular levels with Iowa State University's Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology graduate program. Our program offers an integrated curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in biological research, academia, and biotechnology.
Molecular Cellular

The Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology Interdepartmental Graduate Program at Iowa State University is a multidisciplinary major that allows students to explore the mechanisms of life processes in cutting-edge research labs.  Our students perform independent research under the guidance of top faculty investigating a diverse range of questions in the sciences of molecular, cellular and developmental biology. 


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: 5.8 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.0 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of study.
  • Form testable hypotheses 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 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.
please e-mail

Carla Harris

mcdb@iastate.edu
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:

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
mgupta@iastate.edu
Program Staff
charris@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
Embark on a journey into the microscopic world of microbes with Iowa State University's Microbiology graduate program. Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in microbial research, public health, biotechnology, and industry.
Microbiology

Our program offers both M.S. and Ph. D. degree opportunities in all aspects of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbiology.

Our interdepartmental nature enables a curriculum of breadth, depth, and rigor, and maximizes opportunities for graduate students to pursue the research topic of their choice.

Students in the IM program benefit from individualized courses of study, state-of-the-art facilities and instrumentation, and a supportive community of faculty, staff, and fellow students.


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: 5.3 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.7 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of Microbiology.
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to Microbiology.
  • Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of Microbiological 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.
  • Incorporate academic concepts from Microbiology coursework into laboratory and professional practice.
  • Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-9052

Dai Nguyen

microbiology@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

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:

  • Biology or Chemistry subject test score (recommended)
  • 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
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
mmellata@iastate.edu
Program Staff
dna112@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.
drone-photo

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.


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: 6.2 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.0 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of study.
  • Form testable hypotheses 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 and in writing, and often through the use images (tables, figures, and other forms of imagery) and electronic or other forms of media.
please email

Meteorology Graduate Programs

meteorologygraduateprograms@iastate.edu
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:

  • It is preferable that foreign applicants already have an MS
  • 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
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
wuxq@iastate.edu
Program Staff
jadodd@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Master the principles of mechanical systems and engineering innovation with Iowa State University's Mechanical Engineering graduate program. Our program offers a robust curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in industry, research, and academia. Collaborate closely with renowned faculty on cutting-edge studies in areas such as robotics, advanced materials, renewable energy systems, fluid mechanics, and biomechanics.
FLUIDS scaled

We want to thank you for the opportunity to learn about your career goals and research interests and to highlight how our program can meet your needs. The Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME) offers two major research degrees: a master of science (M.S.) or a doctoral degree (Ph.D.). Our graduate programs offer you the opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research directed at addressing global needs that positively impact society and individual lives. You will work closely with our accomplished faculty in state-of-the-art facilities to achieve scientific breakthroughs and innovative engineering solutions in core ME disciplines. The professional independence, creativity and leadership you will explore in our program will provide you with a rewarding educational experience highly sought after by industry and academia.


Degrees Offered:

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

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

  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)

Area(s) of Emphasis:

  • Bioengineering
  • Cyberphysical Systems and AI
  • Complex Fluids
  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Energy and Sustainability

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: 2.0 years (Methods)

Learning Goals

  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a broad knowledge in the field of Mechanical Engineering.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a deep understanding and expertise in one or more focus areas of Mechanical Engineering.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to develop and demonstrate a strong theoretical and/or experimental and/or computational background through their research projects.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to discuss and apply an understanding of the current literature in mechanical engineering and related disciplines.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to identify fundamental research problems and propose innovative solutions to these problems.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to plan and execute an original research project, analyze the relevant findings, and organize their results into a coherent argument.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to organize research findings into a coherent thesis and will produce scholarship (articles and/or books and/or conference paper) that appear in peer-reviewed venues.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to present and defend their research findings effectively through oral and written presentations and through the development of supporting materials.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to effectively communicate in written, verbal, and nonverbal methods to a broad range of audiences, including the ability to describe complex and technical materials or concepts.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate an understanding of current societal issues, particularly related to the mechanical engineering field.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a commitment to the thoughtful consideration of fundamental principles of ethical professional conduct.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a commitment to the thoughtful consideration of fundamental principles of ethical professional conduct.
515-294-0838

Bri Enearl

megradapp@iastate.edu
If you do not have the ability to upload supplemental materials to your application please email a PDF to megradapp@iastate.edu. Please no paper materials.

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Research based MS and PhD degree February 7 for Fall Admissions and September 1 for Spring Admissions; Coursework only M. Eng. Degree July 15 for Fall and December 1 for Spring admissions. For full consideration, all materials must be submitted by the deadline.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

 

Graduate Admissions Application Information 

 

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?
Yes
Program Director
shrotriy@iastate.edu
Program Staff
benearl@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
shrotriy@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Our program offers rigorous academic training and hands-on research opportunities in the specialized field of Meat Science. Students engage in cutting-edge research that spans from meat quality assessment to sustainable meat production practices.
slabs of meat

Research in Meat Science includes both basic and applied studies of the science of meat and meat products. The program includes research on animal physiology and fresh meat quality, pre- and post-mortem muscle physiology and biochemistry, meat processing technology encompassing use of novel ingredients and equipment as well as new preservation and packaging concepts. Microbiology and food safety are important components of both fresh meat and processed meat research programs. Meat Science has well-equipped chemistry and microbiology laboratories including a Biosafety Level 2 laboratory for work with pathogenic microorganisms in addition to extensive animal harvest, fabrication, processing and preservation facilities.

These facilities provide the capacity for research on meat quality as a result of animal genetics, nutrition and environment as well as impacts of animal transport, handling, harvest and immediate post-harvest conditions. Fresh meat quality and safety during subsequent storage and shelf life assessments are an integral part of the program. Facilities available for meat processing research provide capacity to produce virtually all types of processed meat products for study of novel ingredients, equipment and processing technologies, including such things and natural and organic processing and high hydrostatic pressure processing.


Degrees Offered:

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

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 3.8 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.5 years (Methods)

Learning Goals

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

Rose Mary Ross

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

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

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

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Statement of Purpose (Goals) (if not sent electronically with application): Include major program desired, species of interest, preferred faculty advisor(s), research interests
  • Resume/CV
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Any prospective student can apply though we encourage students to reach out to our graduate faculty members prior to application. The application will only be fully reviewed at the request of a faculty member. Successful admission into this thesis-seeking program will require a major professor. An application fee would be due upon admittance.
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 80
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
ngabler@iastate.edu
Certificate Director
rtarte@iastate.edu
Program Staff
coryjw@iastate.edu
rmross@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the profound depths of mathematics and its applications with Iowa State University's Mathematics graduate program. Our program offers a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in mathematical research, academia, and industry.
Math equations

The department offers programs leading to the Ph.D. in Mathematics, Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, the M.S. in Mathematics, and the M.S. in Applied Mathematics.

We also participate in interdisciplinary programs in Information Assurance, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Human Computer Interaction and Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

All the graduate programs have considerable flexibility to suit individual needs and we offer a variety of online graduate student resources. The faculty has especially strong, active research groups in partial differential equations, applied mathematics, stochastic processes, functional analysis, combinatorics, algebra, control theory, and mathematical biology. Scholarships and grants are available. Graduate students are also eligible to earn annual departmental awards recognizing academic excellence.


Degrees Offered:

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

 

Learning Goals

  • Master core areas of Mathematics (MS, PhD)
  • Achieve in-depth knowledge in a chosen subfield of Mathematics (PhD)
  • Perform original research in a chosen subfield that advances Mathematics (PhD)
  • Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate mathematical concepts and research results (MS, PhD)
515-294-4003

Math Graduate Program Support

gradmath@iastate.edu
Mathematics Graduate Program
411 Morrill Road
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-2104

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Fall term – February 1st.

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:

  • Statement of Purpose
  • TOEFL Speak Minimum -- 20 (for non-native speakers)
  • 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 7
    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
rossmani@iastate.edu
Certificate Director
lidicky@iastate.edu
Program Staff
hallman1@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
lidicky@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the forefront of materials innovation and engineering with Iowa State University's Materials Science and Engineering graduate program. Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in research, development, and industry leadership.
Students working on Chemistry

Graduate students in MSE actively study and pursue next-generation materials solutions in areas such as: Energy storage and transmission; Advanced manufacturing and materials processing; Advanced vehicles and propulsion; Biomaterials and biomedical technologies; Nanomaterials; and Functional responsive materials. MSE graduate students work closely with our interdisciplinary faculty to address critical challenges and explore exciting new opportunities for innovation. Our students come from all over the world and from a wide variety of technical fields. Their career paths are equally diverse, and many go on to become leaders and innovators in academics, research, industry, medicine, business, and public service. MSE offers three advanced degree options, including the Doctor of Philosophy (with research thesis/dissertation), the Master of Science (research thesis track or research portfolio track), and the Master of Engineering (courswork only). We also offer two concurrent enrollment options (BS/MS and BS/MEng). If you have a background in the physical, chemical, or biological sciences, engineering, or mathematics and want to do something truly special, we encourage you to explore opportunities in MSE graduate programs.


Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Advanced manufacturing and materials processing
  • Biomaterials and bio-inspired materials
  • Computational modeling of materials and processes
  • Functional materials and physical behavior
  • Materials for energy storage, conversion, and transmission
  • Soft materials, composites, and coatings

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: 1.7 years (Methods)

Learning Goals

  • Students successfully completing the Ph.D. program in MSE will develop and demonstrate: • a sound understanding of fundamental concepts in Materials Science and Engineering and their broad application in science and technology; • comprehensive knowledge and deep understanding of scholarly literature relevant to the specific area(s) of study, including both contemporary and foundational work; and • an ability to contribute substantially to their field of study through original research and sound application of fundamental concepts, scientific methods, and engineering practices.
  • Students successfully completing the M.S. program in MSE will develop and demonstrate: • a sound understanding of fundamental concepts in Materials Science and Engineering and their broad application in science and technology; • a functional awareness and understanding of scholarly literature relevant to the specific area(s) of study, including both contemporary and foundational work; and • an ability to work effectively in their field of interest through sound application of fundamental concepts, scientific methods, and engineering practices.
  • Students successfully completing the M.Eng. program in MSE will develop and demonstrate: • a sound understanding of fundamental concepts in Materials Science and Engineering and their broad application in science and technology; • an awareness of contemporary critical issues in Materials Science and Engineering; and • an ability to work effectively in their field of interest through sound application of fundamental concepts, scientific methods, and engineering practices.
515-294-0080

Stacey Ross

gradmse@iastate.edu
Office of Admissions
100 Enrollment Services Ctr.
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-2011

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Applications are accepted year-round, with the following deadlines for full consideration: Jan15 for Fall term admission. (Applicants not admitted may elect to have their applications remain open for consideration in subsequent terms.)

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 Fall 2025)

    105
    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
ren1@iastate.edu
Program Staff
staceyr@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
jkuhlman@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the science of human movement and its impact on health and performance with Iowa State University's Kinesiology graduate program. Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in exercise science, sports medicine, rehabilitation, and wellness promotion.
fitness

 

Our programs are based on a strong mentoring model in which incoming graduate students are linked with their chosen graduate faculty mentor at the time of admission. Our programs are intentionally small to promote close working relationships between faculty and students. Given the diversity of faculty expertise, graduate students may choose from several areas of emphasis: biomechanics, exercise physiology (including metabolic, cardiovascular, and immunology), exercise psychology, motor control, pedagogy, and physical activity/health promotion (including epidemiology). Our laboratories are well equipped to support faculty and student research across these areas of specialization.


Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Biomechanics
  • Exercise Physiology (including metabolic, cardiovascular, and immunology)
  • Motor Control
  • Pedagogy
  • Physical Activity & Health Promotion (including epidemiology)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.5 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.0 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of study.
  • Form testable hypotheses 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 and in writing, and often through the use of 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.
515-294-8310

Dr. Jason Gillette

gillette@iastate.edu
DeAnn Pitman
Department of Kinesiology, 203 Forker Building
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-4008

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

February 1 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:

  • Graduate Program Information Sheet
  • Application for Graduate Assistantship
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: Yes

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 560
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 83
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 56
    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
gillette@iastate.edu
Program Staff
gillette@iastate.edu
dpitman@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
chou@iastate.edu
Subscribe to Doctor of Philosophy