Doctor of Philosophy

Abbreviation
Ph.D.
Code
PHD
Degree Type
Doctoral
Interdepartmental Program
Yes
The graduate program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at provides students with the knowledge, skills, and research experience necessary to address pressing ecological and evolutionary questions, preparing them for impactful careers in advancing our understanding and conservation of natural ecosystems.
Green toad Bufotes viridis

The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) graduate program is designed for students interested in the study of mechanisms controlling the composition, structure, and functional processes of ecological systems and the mechanisms that regulate the pattern and rate of evolutionary change within and among species. Our program provides students with an interdisciplinary education and opportunities to train and conduct research in an area of interest. Our graduates are qualified to pursue basic and applied research careers in academia, government, and industry. We hope you will consider Iowa State University for your graduate studies in ecology and evolutionary 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: 6.0 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.8 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • A mastery of the required coursework
  • An understanding of the central issues and current research in the discipline
  • Breadth and depth of knowledge in the discipline
  • An ability to publish research results in peer-reviewed journals
  • An awareness of the societal and ethical issues surrounding the discipline
515.294.1191

Lynette Edsall

eeb@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

December 15 for priority consideration. NOTE: for spring 2025, please choose either the EEOB-A or EEOB-S Graduate Major when you apply. EEB is a direct-admit graduate program, where students are admitted into the group of a major professor as well as into the EEB major. 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 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
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
amytoth@iastate.edu
Program Staff
camelot@iastate.edu
clarahan@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
jfw@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.
A girl

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 Earth Science opens the door to career opportunities that involve: work that helps sustain society and protect the planet; innovative technologies; and outdoor adventures 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
  • Petroleum Geology
  • Geoscience Education
  • Paleooceanography
  • Paleoclimatology
  • Geobiology
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • GIS
  • Sclerochronology
  • Seismology
  • Economic Geology
  • Stable Isotope Geochemistry
  • Hydrology
  • Hydrogeology
  • Geomorphology
  • Glaciology
  • Physical Geography
  • Remote Sensing
  • Geospatial Modeling
  • Sustainability
  • Geophysics
  • Geochemistry
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in the area of Earth sciences;
  • Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of Earth sciences;
  • 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.
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:

Priority date of December 1

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

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
Interdepartmental Program
No
Courses and hands-on experience provide the advanced techniques that will enable you to address environmental and agricultural problems facing our global community. If you’re interested in our graduate program, browse our scientist’s areas of expertise and current research projects. If a subject or project interests you, reach out to that researcher.
Aline Sartor Chicowski

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


Degrees Offered:

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

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

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

Area(s) of Emphasis:

  • Forages
  • Grain Crops
  • Seed Science
  • Weed Science

How long does it take to earn a degree?

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

Learning Goals

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

Kevin Desjean

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

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Continual review, no deadlines for admission or assistantships. Faculty commitment required prior to admission.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Program Emphasis Areas
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
femiguez@iastate.edu
Program Staff
kdesjean@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Research in the Department of Physics and Astronomy is thriving at Iowa State. We have major research efforts in condensed matter physics, the physics of biological systems, high energy particle physics, nuclear physics, particle astrophysics, and astronomy, with excellent opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students.
Condensed matter physics

This program prepares students for advanced research and careers in academia, industry, and government laboratories by providing rigorous training in theoretical and experimental techniques.

 


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: 6.7 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 0.9 year (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:

  • GRE General and Subject Tests are optional
  • Statement of Goals/Interests (if not submitted electronically)
  • All program required supplemental materials are to be uploaded as PDF documents into the online application system. If for some reason you are unable to upload, you may email documents to varnold@iastate.edu or postal mail to the address below.
  • A limited number of admission fee waivers will be available. See department website for details.
  • 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
kerton@iastate.edu
Program Staff
varnold@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Our highly regarded academics, groundbreaking research, and supportive environment makes Iowa State’s Department of Computer Science an exceptional place to pursue an advanced degree with immediate career applications.
Coover lab

The Department of Computer Science offers a M.S. and Ph.D. in Computer Science as well as a M.S. in Artificial Intelligence.


Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
  • Human Computer Interaction
  • Robotics and Autonomous Systems
  • Software Engineering and Programming Languages
  • Systems and Networking
  • Theoretical Foundations

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: 2.3 years (Methods)
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Master core areas of Computer Science (MS, PhD)
  • Achieve in-depth knowledge in chosen subfield of Computer Science (PhD)
  • Obtain expertise to perform original research that advances Computer Science (PhD)
  • Demonstrate ability to communicate technical concepts and research results (MS, PhD)
515-294-5779

Department of Computer Science Graduate Admissions

csadmissions@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

See detailed deadlines for Spring 2025 applications at www.cs.iastate.edu/future-students. Fall 2025 applications will open September 1, 2024.

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:

  • Current Resume/CV
  • Unofficial transcripts from ALL universities/colleges attended - Please include the original language and an English translation. Consolidated transcripts are allowed if they show all tests and exams, including retakes. Please include the grading scale for your university/college. World Education Services (WES) and Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) evaluations of international transcripts are accepted starting with Fall 2024 applications.
  • Unofficial degree statement(s) - this isn't required if your degree is still in progress.
  • (3) Letters of Recommendation (LOR) - the application system will automatically send a recommendation request to the email address you provide for each recommender. Please reach out to csadmissions@iastate.edu with any issues related to the letters of recommendation.
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) - click here for guidance on writing the SOP.
  • GRE scores - click here for information about the GRE requirement, including applying for a GRE waiver
  • English Proficiency for International Applicants - click here for accept tests and minimum requirements
  • Passport/Immigration card - you can wait to upload this until you receive the admission decision.
  • Financial Support Documents - you can wait to upload this until you receive the admission decision. Please submit a bank statement and/or letter from an official sponsorship agency (including government) showing equivalent to one year's expenses. If you have any government or other scholarships, please include the letter. The amount you need to show can be found at https://isso.dso.iastate.edu/resources/students_scholars/expense-worksheet/graduate-expenses. The form at https://iastate.app.box.com/v/intl-finstatement may be helpful in planning your financial documents.
  • MS Application Deadlines
  • PhD Application Deadlines
  • Application Fee - we offer a delayed payment of the application fee. Admitted applicants who accept their offer of admission will pay the fee on their first university bill (u-bill) after enrolling in classes. All other applicants (those who are not admitted and those who do not accept their admission offer) are not required to pay an application fee.
  • Program Requires GRE: Yes
  • 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
sbasu@iastate.edu
Program Staff
nlewis1@iastate.edu
janeller@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
pavan@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The Computer Engineering program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the dynamic field of computer engineering, fostering innovation and leadership in technology-driven industries.
Student Zhenghan Zhang

The Computer Engineering program integrates advanced theory and practical applications to prepare students for leadership roles in the fields of computer hardware and software systems. This program emphasizes the intersection of hardware and software, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of computing technologies and their real-world applications.


Degrees Offered:

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

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

  • Computing and Networking Systems (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)
  • Secure and Reliable Computing (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Software Systems (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Very Large Scale Integration (M.S., Ph.D.)

Area(s) of Emphasis:

  • Information Systems Security/Networking
  • Software Systems
  • VLSI Design

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.2 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.8 years (Methods)

 

 

Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate mastery of knowledge and scholarly literature in their fields of study.
  • Understand ethical principles and conduct responsible research
  • Effectively communicate and disseminate their technical contributions.
  • Students pursuing theses/dissertations shall also demonstrate ability to conduct state-of-the-art research and expand the knowledge base in their fields of study
515-294-9162

ECpE Graduate Coordinator

ecpegrad@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

For Fall entry, the funding priority deadline is January 15; for Spring entry, it is September 1. Applications are welcome after these dates, and will receive consideration for remaining admission and funding opportunities.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 570
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 88
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 59
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
plasmon@iastate.edu
Program Staff
vlthorl@iastate.edu
tanolte@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Resilient buildings and bridges. Safer roads. Sustainable materials. Innovative construction. Clean drinking water. Intelligent infrastructure. Every aspect of the Iowa State University Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering is focused on a better quality of life for Iowa, our nation and our world.
CCEE landing girl In Lab

Collaborate closely with distinguished faculty on cutting-edge studies in infrastructure resilience, smart cities, sustainable construction practices, and environmental impact assessment. Gain practical experience through hands-on projects, fieldwork, and internships with industry leaders. Whether your goals involve designing resilient bridges, improving urban transportation systems, or enhancing environmental sustainability, Iowa State equips you with the knowledge and skills to innovate and address global infrastructure challenges.


Degrees Offered: 

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

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

  • Civil Engineering Materials (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Construction Engineering and Management (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Environmental Engineering (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Geotechnical Engineering (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Intelligent Infrastructure Engineering (M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Structural Engineering (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)
  • Transportation Engineering (M.Engr., M.S., Ph.D.)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.0 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.8 years (Methods)
515-294-8212

Dawn Miller

ccee-grad-inquiry@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

First consideration for assistantship: Dec.15 for the following Fall (August) start. August 1 for following Spring (January) start. Only complete applications will be considered (see required docs above). Applications for Master of Engineering or any self-funded or sponsored applicants for MS or PHD are considered on a rolling basis.

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) 553
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 82
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 55
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Online Degree Information
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
shafei@iastate.edu
Certificate Director
shafei@iastate.edu
Program Staff
millerdm@iastate.edu
runyan@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
smadi@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Graduates from Iowa State University Department of Chemistry are highly sought after and accept offers from all types of different companies and academic institutions.
Chemistry lab

Our department tackles a diverse range of research problems in the four sub-disciplines of chemistry and also offers many multi-disciplinary options, such as materials chemistry, forensics, and biophysical chemistry.

Our research faculty at ISU Chemistry guide students to think critically and creatively about solutions to important and challenging scientific problems. Our department’s 27 active research groups receive >$30M annual funding by federal and state agencies and by industry to support our research. Our graduate students develop their full potential here at ISU by working closely with faculty in individual and collaborative research projects in a beautiful chemistry building equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.


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: 2.2 years (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
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:

  • English proficiency scores are REQUIRED for international applicants.
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

We admit for the fall semester which begins with orientation where you will be welcomed by our faculty, students and staff. Our application deadlines are January 10 for international students and February 1 for domestic students. We encourage you to apply early in the fall of your senior year as as we review applications in the order they are received. 

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
    *Please upload this directly to your application when prompted
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 573
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 89
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 60
    Duoling (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
arossini@iastate.edu
Program Staff
efurbeck@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
gmiller@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Chemical engineers touch all aspects of our lives, such as the production, distribution and maintenance of a safe supply of food and water, medicines that keep us healthy, the clothes that keep us warm, and the fuel that we use for transportation. Below you’ll find more information about working as a chemical engineer and the ISU Chemical and Biological Engineering experience.
Four students

We are a community of faculty, staff and students immersed in nationally and internationally recognized chemical and biological research. As one of the nation’s first chemical engineering departments, we are committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares you for a productive career in engineering or a related field, and for life as an educated, effective citizen and leader. Our graduate students work hand-in-hand with our faculty to better the lives of individuals everywhere.


Degrees Offered:

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

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Advanced and Nanostructured Materials
  • Biorenewables
  • Catalysis and Reaction Engineering
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Health Care Technology and Biomedical Engineering
  • Renewable Energy

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: 1.5 years (Methods)

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 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.
  • Conduct independent scholarship in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-7870

Chemical & Biological Engineering

chemengr@iastate.edu
Chemical and Biological Engineering Graduate Program
2114 Sweeney Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1098

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Priority consideration deadlines for Fall admission are December 1 (international applicants) and January 1 (domestic applicants). Applications for Spring admission are due on September 15.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

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

Program Specific Requirements:

  • 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) 587
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 94
    IELTS 7
    PTE 64
    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
zyshao@iastate.edu
Program Staff
mlstott@iastate.edu
salarkin@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
drw1@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
The Business and Technology PhD program at the Ivy College of Business is a full-time, residential program that focuses on theory and development and will prepare you to transition to academic positions at leading universities in the United States and abroad.
Business and technology

Our PhD program is designed to equip you with the skills necessary to conduct and publish high-quality scholarly research. Beyond exceptional coursework, your education will be enriched through participation in research seminars, collaborative projects with faculty, and involvement in academic conferences. As a PhD student, you are strongly encouraged to publish your work in leading journals, preparing you for successful future job placement. We look forward to celebrating your accomplishments and honoring your outstanding achievements as you work to fulfill your goals.


Degrees Offered: 

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

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

  • Entrepreneurship (Ph.D.)
  • Finance (Ph.D.)
  • Management (Ph.D.)
  • Management Information Systems (Ph.D.)
  • Marketing (Ph.D.)
  • Supply Chain Management (Ph.D.)

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: No data
Program Degrees Offered

Learning Goals

  • Learning Outcome #1: Understanding and advancing knowledge. This objective is measured through the use of a comprehensive exam in each area of study. If a student does not pass this exam after two attempts, they are dismissed from the program.
  • Learning Outcome #2: Creating knowledge through original research The measurement for this objective is currently under review. While each of our graduates is expected to complete a dissertation, knowledge creation is also demonstrated through the submission acceptance of pure review journal articles while in the PhD program.
  • Learning Outcome #3: Ability to teach effectively in an institution of higher education This objective is measured through student evaluations of teaching and peer evaluation of the PhD student’s teaching performance. Student evaluation of teaching is done each semester for all instructors of record. Our evaluation instrument is on a scale of 1(poor) to 5(excellent).
515-294-2474

Emily Meeks

businessphd@iastate.edu
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

The application deadline for enrollment is January 15. Fall admissions only. All areas of emphasis accept students every fall, except for Finance. Finance accepts students in odd years only starting fall 2023.

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
    PTE 68
    Duolingo 130
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
mdh189@iastate.edu
Program Staff
emeeks@iastate.edu
program_contact_email_new
businessphd@iastate.edu
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