Frequently Asked Questions

Program in Ecology

Frequently Asked Questions about applying to PiE

Photo by Craig Benkman, PiE faculty, Professor of Zoology/Physiology

Why apply to PiE?

What is the deadline for applying to PiE?

What are the recommended minimum requirements?

Are there funding options through PiE?

Is there an online option?

Is there an Master's degree option?

Click here for the application process.

 

Why apply to PiE?

1. The Program in Ecology is a rigorous interdisciplinary program that combines an exposure to the breadth of the field through coursework, collaborative work and regular interaction with other students and faculty, with the depth of expertise in your area of specialization.

2. The Program in Ecology welcomes diversity in thought and research areas, which extends from the sciences to include less-traditional foci of ecology such as philosophy and anthropology.  PiE admits students to the program based on their academic strength, in-field experiences and progressiveness of ideas, not based on their department.

3. The University of Wyoming's relatively small campus and the Program in Ecology's relatively small enrollment allows for high levels of interaction between students and faculty in many departments and colleges.  PiE students, faculty and affiliates are not isolated in their own department, but rather think across boundaries, where meaningful scientific discovery occurs.

4. The Program in Ecology is for the students.  The student body is exceptionally engaged in all matters related to the program, ranging from voting in programmatic matters, providing feedback on ways to improve or modify the curriculum, self-initiating student-led study groups, and more.  Faculty and administrators recognize that students are the most important asset to the program.  Click here to learn more about PiE students and their work.

Click here for more information about the University of Wyoming and Laramie.

When can I apply to PiE?

There are no firm deadlines for applying to PiE; however, prospective students must first apply to a home department, so check the departmental application deadlines.  Typically students are admitted in the spring for commencement in the fall, but students can be admitted on a rolling basis.  Click here to learn more about the application process.

 

What are the recommended minimum requirements for PiE?

Recommended minimum GPA: 3.0

Recommended TOEFL scores (for international students): 525

Other University of Wyoming minimums: Website

 

Are there funding options available through PiE?

Students should first discuss with their potential advisor whether grant- or department-funded graduate assistantships are available. There are typically one-year Teaching Assistantships available through PiE, which involve serving as a teaching assistant both semesters of the academic year.  As these TAships are very limited, we recommend you work with your home department and advisor first to secure funding, and only apply for a PiE TAship if funding cannot be secured. 

 

Is there an online option?

No, Program in Ecology is an on-campus only doctorate program.

 

Is there a Master's degree option?

No, Program in Ecology is currently a PhD-only program; there is not a Master's or Bachelor's degree offered in Ecology.