College OfficeApplying for Graduate School: A Primer

The purpose of this primer is to provide an overview of how to apply for acceptance into the Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) graduate degree programs in the geography area of specialization in the Department of Earth Sciences at Montana State University. In addition, it answers some of the most commonly asked questions concerning application and admission to the Earth Sciences graduate program in the geography specialization.

The most important step in the application process is to determine, prior to applying, the faculty member whose research interests most closely match the research area you would like to pursue in graduate school. Because final acceptance is determined by the individual faculty advisors, it is important that you establish contact with your potential advisor to determine if they are accepting new graduate students for the year you wish to enter the program and to discuss mutual research interests prior to applying. More information about the Department of Earth Sciences geography faculty and their research programs is available on the Department website.

Will I be accepted if I do not have a degree in geography or a closely related field?

The geography program does allow students with some course deficiencies to be provisionally admitted with the understanding that the student will complete necessary background coursework within their first year of the graduate program. Another course of action is to seek admission to the College of Graduate Studies as a non-degree candidate, and then make up all undergraduate course deficiencies prior to apply for acceptance to the Graduate College and Department as a degree candidate. Application for non-degree graduate student status does not require acceptance by the Department, only the Graduate College.

Does the Department require a preliminary application?

No, the Department of Earth Sciences does not require a preliminary application. We do however strongly suggest that you contact the faculty member(s) with whom you would like to work prior to applying.

When is my application due?

In order to be considered for either a Teaching or Research Assistantship, it is imperative that the Department receive all of your required application materials by January 15th.

What are the required components of the application?

As described on the College of Graduate Studies Web Page, the application for admission to the Graduate College includes a completed application form, official transcripts from all undergraduate institutions attended, a statement of intent, and three letters of recommendation from persons qualified to assess your potential for success in graduate school. The graduate program overview page provides a detailed checklist of required application items.

Do I have to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)?

No, applicants are not required to take the GRE.

What are the application requirements for foreign students?

The application process for foreign students is the same as it is for domestic students. In addition the standard application, foreign students from many countries are required to submit test scores exhibiting English language proficiency and a financial statement in addition to the standard application. The Graduate School provides details concerning Graduate College requirements for foreign student applications.

What can I do to strengthen my application?

Acceptance into the geography component of the Earth Sciences graduate program is highly competitive. The strongest applications have a relatively high GPA (above 3.0) and strongly supportive letters of recommendation. In addition, a clearly articulated statement of intent focused on career goals and research interests rather than recreational opportunities afforded by living in southwest Montana is highly recommended. We recommend you reach out to potential advisors early.

Where do I send my application materials?

All of your application materials will be handled by the online application.

Who do I contact with questions concerning the application process?

In addition to the information provided in this primer, you will find a detailed description of the application process at the College of Graduate Studies web site and the Department of Earth Sciences web page for prospective students. It is strongly recommended that you review the information provided at these sites in detail. If you have questions concerning the receipt of your application materials, you may contact the Department via email at [email protected] or by phone at (406) 994-3331.