How to Apply

Getting Started

Applicants for the Doctor of Philosophy program are required to submit for review a copy of their master’s thesis or professional paper and have personal interviews with appropriate Department faculty.  Applicants for the Master of Science program are also encouraged to provide a copy of a professional paper or writing samples, as well as have personal interviews with appropriate Department faculty. Applicants for the Master of Conservation Leadership, Master of Tourism Management, or Online Graduate Certificate in Communications for Conservation should reference program specific application pages.

Before applying we recommend that you research our faculty to determine which have research interests that align with your career goals. Once you have narrowed down which faculty you are interested in studying under, we recommend that you contact them directly.  It is in your best interest to do your homework first and then ascertain if they are currently accepting students and if they have any available funding for additional students. Conversely you can share that you have external funding or are willing to self-fund.

Each year we receive many applications for graduate school and ultimately accept between 8 and 15. We mention this not to discourage your application, but rather to highlight the importance of becoming familiar with faculty members who share your interests and making personal contact through e-mail, a telephone conversation, and/or visit to campus.

For general study or application questions please contact the department. For specific questions please contact our Graduate Coordinator Professor Tara Teel.

International Students

Application procedures are similar to those for U.S. citizens or permanent resident students.  These additional materials must also be submitted:

  • An official transcript of all collegiate work completed along with a certified translation into English.
  • Scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS).  Track III admissions are not required to take either the TOEFL or IELTS exam.
  • A statement of purpose.
  • Three letters of recommendation.

Departmental requirements for additional materials are the same as for U.S. students.  Regulations regarding deadlines and application fees are likewise the same as for U.S students.

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Financial Aid

  • For general financial aid information, please reference The Office of Financial Aid.
  • Every year there are 6-8 graduate teaching assistant positions offered in HDNR.
  • Research assistant positions are offered based on faculty funding.
  • There are additional employment opportunities within the department. These vary year to year, so please check with our main office about available opportunities.

Application Checklist

  • A completed CSU Graduate School Application form
  • A non-refundable application fee of $60, payable to Colorado State University
  • One (1) official transcript for all previous college work (if previous course work has been completed at Colorado State University-Fort Collins, transcripts from CSU are not required)
  • Three (3) letters of recommendation. (You may use the printable pdf evaluation form)
  • A clear statement of your career interests and goals