FAQ for Applications and Admissions
Q: Where do I apply?
A: At the Graduate College website for Graduate Applications.
Q: I have many general questions. Can you answer them?
A: Most general questions have already been answered. Please visit the Graduate College Frequently Asked Questions.
Q: Who do I contact for questions not listed here?
A: The department graduate student coordinator can be reached at PAMSGraduateCoordinator@MissouriState.edu.
Q: What are the admission requirements?
A: Please see the Graduate College Admission Requirements and the Department Admission Requirements. The information can also be found in the Program Description in the Academic Catalog
Q: My GPA is below 3.00, can I still apply?
A: We strongly advise against applying if your GPA is below 3.00.
Q: Is there funding available in the department?
A: Yes, there are Graduate Assistantships available beginning in the Fall semesters. A few assistantships may be offered in the Spring semesters depending upon availability. The number of assistantships is limited and the selection is competitive. Any offer of a graduate assistantship is made in the full evaluation of your application by the department and by the Graduate College.
Q: Am I eligible for a graduate assistantship as an international student?
A: Yes, you are eligible.
Q: Is there a GPA requirement for assistantship?
A: Yes, you must have a minimum of 3.00 GPA to be considered for an assistantship.
Q: Will my chances for funding increase if I ask for it?
A: No, they will not. Your complete application will be evaluated together with all other applications by the department. The selection is made solely on academic merit.
Q: Will I increase my chances for admission to the program by individually contacting and petitioning faculty in the department?
A: No, this will play no role in your admission to the program.
Q: Is the GRE required?
A: Yes, the GRE is mandatory.
Q: I am an international student. Is TOEFL or IELTS required for me?
A: Yes, unless you come from one of the approved exempt countries. Please see the English Proficiency Requirements.
Q: When can I start my application?
A: The application portal is opened and coordinated by the Graduate College. The application portal for Fall semesters typically opens up at the end of September.
Q: Am I eligible for the Materials Science program with my degree?
A: That depends on your degree, the courses you have taken, and your grades. Please visit our Admission Requirements.
Q: Do you have a PhD program?
A: No, we do not. We offer a Master of Science in Materials Science and a Master of Natural and Applied Science (MNAS) with emphases in Physics, Astronomy, or Materials Science. For the latter, please visit the MNAS page.
Q: When can I expect to find out if I have been accepted to the program?
A: Notifications of acceptance to the program for Fall semester admission are typically sent out in April of each year.
Q: I have been admitted to the program. Can I defer my start to a later semester?
A: No, the Graduate College does not accept defferals. You are welcome to start a new application which will be considered among the new pool of applications. Your new application will not receive any special considerations.
Q: How will I be assigned to a research supervisor in the department?
A: The assignment of research supervisors are made in the first semester once the students have begun their studies in the program.