FAQs for Prospective Students
Is the GRE (Graduate Records Exam) required?
Yes. It is required and, indeed, a very important part of your application. All applicants must submit GRE scores by January 1 of the year for which they are applying. Take the "general" exam, as there is no specific exam for environmental science.
Do I need to submit letters of recommendation?
Yes. Three letters of recommendation from faculty are requested. If you have been out of school for a number of years, two of the letters can be from past or current employers.
Where do I send official transcripts?
Transcripts are sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Drive MS 3019, Moscow, ID 83844-3019. Please do not send them to the Environmental Science Program.
How do I formally state my qualifications and academic objectives to the program?
Applicants must write a one page typed statement of career objectives and research interests. This statement is extremely important as it helps us determine whether or not your research interests match the interests of the graduate faculty, and if so, which faculty share your research objectives.
Will I have additional "deficiency" courses to take if I don't have a background in environmental science?
Yes. All students must meet basic requirements in chemistry or physics, physical geography or geology, biological sciences (2 courses), social sciences (2 courses), statistics, mathematics, and English. You may be asked to provide catalog copies of the course descriptions of these. If you are deficient in some of the courses necessary for preparation for this degree, you will need to make these courses part of your study plan and complete them before you graduate.
If my GPA is slightly below the required 3.0 can I still get into the program?
Yes, but only if your application file excels in all other categories ( i.e., letters of recommendation, GRE scores, statement of research interests). Under these conditions, you may be "accepted provisionally" as a graduate student. Once you raise your GPA, we can change your status. As of January 2001, the average GPA for accepted students was 3.48.
What degrees are required to enter the Ph.D. program?
We will consider applicants with an M.S. degree in environmental science or in related fields and a minimum graduate GPA of 3.3 or above.
How do I apply for funding?
You are automatically considered for assistantships. The Environmental Science Program fully funds almost all of its full-time graduate students. Your application must be received by January 15 to be considered for full funding.
Can I talk to someone over the phone?
Yes. The phone number is (208) 885-6113. Academic advisors are available from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.