Prospective graduate students are urged to apply for admission to the degree program as early as possible, preferably six to ten months before the beginning of the semester in which they expect to enroll. For fall admission, a deadline of March 1 is used for review of students for financial assistance. Although applications can be submitted later, the chance for financial support may be decreased. Strong letters of reference, evident motivation to undertake graduate study, and good preparation in basic science courses enhance an applicant's credentials. Appointments as research assistants and fellows provide a stipend and waive tuition and most of the fees.
Financial aid is granted on a competitive basis.
Applicants are judged for academic potential based on past performance, experience, motivation, dedication to the designated area of interest, and, where applicable, the potential to satisfy the objectives of a donor. Fellowships have minimum GPA and GRE score requirements. Information about the current availability of financial aid can be obtained from the graduate coordinator or, in the case of research assistantships, directly from faculty members working in the area of interest. Faculty Programs Specialized research areas of faculty members and affiliates in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences are described in a separate brochure . Any faculty member or affiliate may be a major advisor, direct thesis research, or serve on the examination committee of M.S., and Ph.D. students.