Master’s Programs FAQ

General Master’s Programs

How much is the application fee?

The application fee for is $60 for domestic students and $100 for international students.

What are the application essay questions?

You may have to submit an essay or statement of purpose that is part of your application for certain programs.

Applicants are asked to submit original work in their admissions essays. Iowa State University has specific policies regarding the issues of plagiarism and academic misconduct. To learn more about these expectations, please review the Academic Conduct policy in the university catalog. Please note that all admissions essays/statement of purpose submissions are reviewed through academic integrity software. To submit a qualified essay, please follow these guidelines:

A personal essay should be in your own words, and in most cases, it is not necessary to provide references/citations to properly convey your thoughts.
If you must use a source, properly cite the reference within your essay.
Do not use internet searches or websites to copy/paste material to your essay.

What does “STEM designation” mean and which programs are STEM designated?

A STEM designation is awarded to a program that has qualified curriculum meeting the STEM criteria. This designation allows students to increase their Optional Practical Training (OPT) from the standard 12 months to 36 months of work authorization in the United States in pre-approved programs.

Iowa State University’s graduate program requires three letters of recommendation. However, the Ivy College of Business’ graduate application only requires two letters of recommendation. What should students do?

Most Ivy graduate programs only require two letters of application, but students can submit three if they choose. If they do not, students can leave the third line on the Iowa State University’s application blank.

Please note: The Business Analytics program requires one to three letters of recommendation. Students may submit their preferred number of letters in this range.

Master of Accounting requires three letters.

Should students upload the statement of purpose or personal essay in a separate document or place their text entry within the application?

Students are advised to upload a separate document and may leave the statement of purpose or personal essay section blank within the application. MSIS, MRED and MBAN applicants may put their statement of purpose in the application.

Who should a student ask to write a letter of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation should come from professional connections, such as faculty members, supervisors, or others that know the student professionally. Letters of recommendations should not come from family members, neighbors, or friends.

Can application materials be submitted as they are completed or does a student need to wait and submit them in full?

Students can do either option: all at once or as they are ready. However, applications will not be reviewed for admission until all required materials are received.

Once a student has applied, how soon will the student hear back?

Every program in the Ivy College of Business varies on their timeline. However, most applicants will hear back regarding the status of the application within four to six weeks, sometimes sooner.

Is an interview required as a part of admission?

It depends. The fulltime MBA program requires an interview with the admissions committee. The Master of Accounting may require an interview for some candidates. Interviews are typically arranged within five to seven days after a candidate completes their application. All other Ivy graduate programs do not currently require an interview, though a program may elect to set-up an interview with a student on a case-by-case basis.

Once a student has been admitted by the program, what steps do they need to follow as an international student to obtain a F-1 or J-1 visa?

International applicants who will need an F-1 student visa or J-1 exchange visitor visa (Forms I- 20 or DS-2019) are required to complete the Financial Statement for International Applicants and upload it to their online application with the necessary bank documents.

All information regarding the I-20 will come from the University Office of Admissions. Questions can be directed to grad_admissions@iastate.edu

Who must take an English Proficiency Exam for the admission application?

Any student whose native language is not English are required to take an English Proficiency Exam. For the purpose of applying to Iowa State University, English may be considered the primary language if a student has been raised in an environment where English is the only official language of the locality and nation, and English is the language used in the student’s home. If the primary language is not English, the student must meet the university’s English proficiency requirement in one of the following ways:

Earn a bachelor’s or higher degree from a country where English is the only official language, such as the following. (Complete list available from Admissions.)

Australia.
Bahamas.
Barbados.
Belize.
Bermuda.
Canada (exc. Québec).
Dominica.
Ghana.
Grenada.
Guyana.
Ireland.
Jamaica.
Liberia.
New Zealand.
Nigeria.
Uganda.
United Kingdom.
United States (exc. PR).
Zambia.
Zimbabwe.

Submit official results from one of the following exams. The minimum requirements of both the Graduate College and the graduate program to which the student is applying must be met. The minimum scores accepted by the Ivy College of Business are:

TOEFL 100.
IELTS 7.5.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) 72.
DuoLingo English Test 120 (only approved through spring 2025 admission cycle).

For more information, see our admissions criteria.

Who must take the English Placement Test (EPT) at Iowa State University?

All incoming students whose first language is not English and who do not meet the exemption criteria are required to take the EPT. See the list of exemption criteria.

Tests are administered prior to the start of the semester. It is very important that students take this exam so that it doesn’t impact their graduation. Course placement will be determined based on EPT results.

Courses that a student places into after the EPT are required and must be completed in the first year of study.

Please note that admission requirements for English proficiency are different than the English graduation requirements. Therefore, it is possible for a student to be admitted with their English Proficiency exam scores and still be required to take the EPT and associated coursework. Students would work with their DOGE/advisor regarding this process.

Is it possible to waive the GMAT/GRE exam?

The fulltime MBA programs requires a GMAT and it cannot be waived.
The Master of Accounting, Master of Business Analytics, Master of Entrepreneurship, Master of Finance, Master of Healthcare Analytics and Operations, Master of Information Systems, and Master of Real Estate do not require a GMAT/GRE. Please note that if your GPA is lower than 3.0, optionally submitting a GRE or GMAT score can increase your chances for admission.

What is an assistantship and how does a student receive one?

There are a limited number of quarter-time research assistantships available through the Ivy College of Business. Most are offered upon acceptance into the program, but some assistantship opportunities may arise during the semester. To be considered for a graduate assistantship, check “yes” on the application form where it asks “Do you want to be considered for an assistantship?” Assistantships help lower the cost of tuition and are awarded based on GPA, GMAT scores (where required or optionally submitted), work experience, and other notable achievement and characteristics.

How do students apply for scholarships?

At Iowa State University, graduate-level scholarships are awarded at the department level, not at the University-level. There are a limited number of scholarships available through the Ivy College of Business. All students are considered for scholarships at the time of application and do not need to submit a separate application. Most scholarships are awarded for two semesters and range in amounts from $1,000-$5,000 total.

Is an internship a requirement for my program?

Most Ivy College of Business programs do not require an internship to graduate. Students, however, are highly encouraged to complete an internship during their studies. Graduate Career Services at Ivy can help students on their internship search. Changes to this requirement are possible and will be communicated to students as applicable.
The Master of Entrepreneurship does have experiential requirements that are built into the curriculum; outside internships are not required as a part of the program.
Masters of Healthcare Operations and Analytics does require a healthcare related internship. A healthcare related internship (up to 20 hours/week) can be completed at a student’s current employer (if applicable) or at new site based on approval from the DOGE. If the DOGE determines that an internship is not necessary for a student based on prior work experience, a student may select an additional approved elective course.

What are the tuition and mandatory fees for graduate students?

Please refer to our Registrar’s website for updated tuition rates. Students may also calculate their own cost by using the expense estimator offered through the Office of Student Financial Aid.

What housing options are available to graduate students?

Full-time graduate students may choose to live on campus in dedicated housing options located in Wallace Hall, Frederiksen Court and SUV. A comprehensive list of all rates and fees can be found through the Department of Residence. Graduate students may also choose to live off-campus. Use this rental guide to compare off campus housing recommendations.

How can students gain Iowa residency for tuition purposes?

The Iowa State Office of the Registrar mandates the residency process. Their residency application details the specific qualifications you must meet before gaining residency.

Can international students work on campus? If yes, what kind of jobs are available for International Students?

Yes, international students can work on campus. There is a student job board available on AccessPlus, there may be graduate assistantships available for your program, and students are encouraged to utilize graduate career services to find internship and full-time job opportunities.

What are the estimated living expenses for international students?

Refer to this guide to get an estimated cost of attendance for an average resident, non-resident, or international student. If you want to get an estimate of your tuition costs after financial aid applies, use the expense estimator to calculate your cost of attendance.

What’s the difference in the Master of Business Analytics pathways?

For more detailed information visit the registrar’s site.

Master of Accounting (MACC)

Why should I consider attaining CPA licensure?

Strong designation of proficiency in the accounting profession.
Many recruiters will require that you are CPA eligible before hiring you – especially public accounting firms.
Opens up more job opportunities in all areas of accounting – Think long term! Recruiters may tell you that you do not need this for your entry-level job, but if you plan to “climb the ladder” you will need this someday or be urged by your boss to earn this at some point.
It is much easier to fill the requirements, study, and pass these exams now rather than later in life.

What are the requirements in Iowa to apply and sit for the CPA exam?

To apply and sit for the CPA exam, you must have your undergraduate bachelor’s degree plus 24 accounting credits beyond principles and business law (ACCT 2150, 2840, 2850, 4160).

What are the requirements in Iowa to attain my CPA license?

To attain licensure, you must:

Have 150 total college credits (can be both undergraduate and graduate).
Pass all four CPA exams within an 18-month window (Passing score is 75 or better).
Pass an online AICPA Professional Ethics Exam.
And have one year of accounting experience (two years for attest license).

Why should I consider pursuing a Master of Accounting (MACC) degree?

Includes 6 credits of CPA preparation which provides students with additional
time, guidance, and support in their CPA endeavors. *The opportunity to prepare for the CPA exams before starting full-time
employment leads to a much higher probability of success in attaining CPA licensure.
Offers a customized 30 credit hour program with specializations to meet students’ career goals and interests.
Focuses on strengthening critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills desired by recruiters.
The 30-credit structure allows students to efficiently arrive at the 150 credit-hour requirement for CPA licensure. Students can begin sitting for CPA exam sections during their time in the program and earn six credits for CPA exam preparation.

How long will it take to complete the MACC program?

The MACC program is a 4+1 Program meaning that students may enroll early (concurrently) and double count up to six credits between their undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. Thus, the MACC program is typically a two-semester program with CPA prep.

How many credit hours will I need to complete to receive a Master of Accounting (MACC) degree?

15 core credits.
- ACCT 5150, Accounting Analytics.
- ACCT 5980, Financial Accounting: Theory and Contemporary Issues.
- ENGL 5920C, Business Communications.
- ACCT 5800, CPA Prep (6 credits).
15 specialization credits.
Optional: 6 credits – four-week summer study abroad in France.

Can I receive a specialization within the Master of Accounting Program?

Yes. You may customize your curriculum to fit your interests and career goals. The Master of Accounting offers a CPA track and a CMA track.

CPA Track specializations include:
- Financial Reporting and Assurance.
- Information Systems and Analytics.
- Tax.

CMA Track specializations include:
- Managerial Decision Making.
- Information Systems and Analytics.

Does the Master of Accounting (MACC) program provide financial support?

The MACC program supports students’ financial needs through multiple graduate assistantship positions, program scholarships, and CPA exam preparation scholarships.
- Graduate assistantship positions are available each semester. These assistantship positions provide students with automatic in-state tuition rates, a 25 percent discount on tuition, a monthly stipend, and health insurance coverage.
- The MACC program awards several large scholarships to students in the program each academic year.
- Scholarship applications are available for students in need of financial assistance for CPA exam preparation materials.

For more information, please contact Kayla Sander or Brandi Moormann.

When can I start the concurrent program, and what classes can transfer into the master’s degree?

Concurrent enrollment in the Master of Accounting program can begin the final semester of a student’s undergraduate degree. When concurrently enrolled, students can double count up to six credits between their undergraduate and Master of Accounting degrees.
Courses not eligible for the double count are all business core and accounting core requirements within the undergraduate accounting degree. Good courses to use for double count are the required accounting elective and non-business course requirements taken at the 300 or 400 level. Contact MACC Coordinator and Advisor Kayla Sander at kayla@iastate.edu to plan your schedule and see if you would benefit from concurrent enrollment.

How will the Ivy Master of Accounting program help me in my career, and what value will this degree provide?

Iowa State’s Master of Accounting (MACC) curriculum equips students with improved critical thinking, analytical decision-making, and communication skills. Through classroom discussion and course projects built around current challenges in the accounting industry, students gain a deeper understanding of accounting topics, which allows them to assimilate more quickly to challenges presented in their professional roles. As a result, students are able to set themselves apart from their peers and accelerate more quickly in their careers.
Students can customize their education by choosing a curriculum specialization within two professional certification tracks. Students can choose to build either CPA or CMA prep into their degree, providing students with the additional time and resources necessary to successfully complete the exams required for these meaningful professional certifications.
This specialized graduate degree, the professional certification students will earn, and the skills and knowledge gained while working toward them will benefit students not only as they transition into their first job role but for the entirety of their career.

What opportunities and resources will I have in the Master of Accounting program aside from coursework?

All graduate students have access to Graduate Student Services and Graduate Career Services.

Will I be able to study and pass all sections of the CPA exam while enrolled in the Master of Accounting program?

It is possible for students to study for and pass all four sections of the CPA exam while enrolled in the MACC program. There are several factors that can impact this experience for students.

During your advising appointment, you will work with the MACC coordinator and advisor to develop a customized plan in which you can prepare and take all four sections of the CPA exam during your time in the MACC program. Usually this means planning one section of the exam into each fall and spring semester and taking advantage of summer and winter breaks to cover the remaining two sections. Some students are able to take two exams within a fall or spring semester.

MACC students can take a maximum of 6 credits of ACCT 5800, CPA Exam Preparation, during the 30-credit program. Each 3-credit section of ACCT 5800 supports preparation for one CPA exam section.

When is the best time to apply? Should I wait until my final semester to apply?

The MACC program accepts students into the program each fall, spring, and summer semester. At a minimum, students should apply the semester before they plan to begin graduate coursework.

It is important to note that most financial support awarded by the program is allocated mid-spring semester for the upcoming academic year. Students must be admitted into the Master of Accounting program by mid-spring semester to be considered for financial support such as graduate assistantships and scholarships.

Reach out to MACC coordinator Kayla Sander at kayla@iastate.edu as soon as you are interested in the program to plan and consider options for concurrent enrollment and double-counting courses.

How does coursework in the MACC differ from my undergraduate courses?

MACC coursework is full of hands-on, application-based group projects and discussion-based class time. Students are encouraged to think differently and look beyond the right answer to find the why. This learning method fosters a higher level of professional maturity within our students, allowing them to stand out among their peers.

What are the benefits of concurrent enrollment?

Concurrent enrollment allows students to save time and money as they complete their undergraduate and Master of Accounting degrees.

How does the MACC prepare me for the CPA exam?

Possibly most importantly, the program offers students the additional time and support necessary for successfully passing the four sections of the CPA exam. Realistically, putting in the significant study time necessary to pass the four sections of the CPA exam is a huge barrier for individuals who are working in a full-time accounting position, which oftentimes can require up to 60-70 hours of work each week. This leads to late nights and weekends dedicated to CPA preparation. This can present challenges beyond the obvious academic rigor. The MACC program allows students to complete CPA preparation during daytime hours when they are the most focused and productive. This complements a 12-credit course load nicely. Students have the opportunity to leave Iowa State with a specialized graduate degree, and all four sections of the CPA exam passed, allowing them to transition into their first full-time job role with a strong resume and nothing looming.
MACC students can take a maximum of six credits of ACCT 5800, CPA Exam Preparation, during the 30-credit program. Each three-credit section of ACCT 5800 supports preparation for one CPA exam section.
The other 24 credits of MACC coursework provide students a path to build their skills and accounting expertise. This content within these courses applies to CPA exam content and can be beneficial to those studying for the exam, but it is not designed to serve as a replacement for CPA exam prep.

Will I be able to attend in my undergraduate graduation, or do I have to wait until completing my master’s degree?

Of course, you can participate! Whether concurrently enrolled or transitioning to the Master of Accounting program, students will be able to participate in undergraduate graduation after the semester in which they complete all undergraduate requirements.

Students are encouraged to attend both their undergraduate and graduate graduation ceremonies to celebrate these impressive milestones!

What advice would be appropriate for a student looking to change career paths and navigate the process of earning a Master of Accounting degree with a non-accounting undergraduate education?

The Master of Accounting program at Iowa State offers a dynamic experience for individuals from all backgrounds, providing a great opportunity for career changers. Program eligibility requires the completion of select undergraduate accounting coursework. Generally, students are best served by enrolling as nondegree graduate students while working on prerequisite courses for the program. For details regarding the prerequisite coursework required and assistance in identifying a customized approach to meeting program requirements, contact Master of Accounting program coordinator and advisor Kayla Sander at kayla@iastate.edu.

Reach out to the Ivy College of Business Graduate Career Services team to identify and discuss future career opportunities is also a great place to start.

Application information can be found here.

Master of Accounting Analytics (MAA)

Why should I consider pursuing a Master of Accounting Analytics (MAA) degree?

Program curriculum provides a deep dive into a well-rounded selection of accounting topics while emphasizing students’ analytical skills – those critical to the accounting profession.
Fully asynchronous, online program with accelerated courses delivered in short time blocks. This course delivery method allows students to complete their coursework from anywhere.
Full-time or part-time degree-completion path to cater to the working professional’s schedule.
Program focused on developing students’ analytics and quantitative modeling skills.
A curated set of courses designed to best fit the needs of working accounting professionals.
Opportunity for accelerated career growth and increased lifetime earnings potential.

How long will it take to complete the MAA program?

The 30-credit MAA program can be completed within one year.

What is the cost of the MAA program?

Part-time: $818/credit hour + fees.
12-month completion estimate around $16,500 + fees.
For complete tuition and fee information, please visit the Iowa State University tuition and fees page. Tuition and fees are subject to change at any time. Books, materials, and cost of living are not included.

When should I apply to the MAA program?

Application deadlines are March 15 (summer), June 15 (fall), and November 15 (spring).

Do I need take the GMAT/GRE for admission to the MAA program?

For further information, contact Master of Accounting Analytics Director of Graduate Education Brad Trinkle, trinkle@iastate.edu.

Application information can be found here.

Master of Business Analytics (MBAN)

What is the MBAN program pathways and structure?

Two pathways for completion:

100 percent online, asynchronized program.
100 percent hybrid on-campus in Ames, Iowa.

International students are eligible for the hybrid pathway on-campus at Ames, Iowa. Student Visas are NOT issued for the 100 percent online course delivery option

Both pathways require 30 credit hours.
Four required core courses (12 credits).
Six elective courses (18 credits).
Final semester – capstone project.

Review MBAN course requirements

Check out a sample MBAN program plan

View MBAN current course offerings

See the course descriptions in the university catalog.

What are the application requirements?

Application.
Resume.
College transcripts – bachelor’s degree required.
Statement of purpose.
English Proficiency Test for non-native English speakers.
No GRE or GMAT is required for admission.

What is the cost of Attendance?

For more detailed information visit the registrar’s site.

Can I complete my degree full-time or part-time?

Yes, the 100 percent online program is designed for either part-time or full-time enrollment. It is possible to take one course a semester. Students can set their own path. Iowa State allows seven years to complete a master’s degree.

Is the Master of Business Analytics program a Master of Science degree?

This is a professional master’s degree. A professional master’s degree is generally coursework only and sometimes includes a capstone course (as in our BA program). This program has no research component. No, it is not a Master of Science degree.

What is the scope of teaching new students subjects like management, and coding? Will these courses be taught from a base level, or are there prerequisite courses to be taken?

Most of the courses do not require extensive coding in any language. Statistics courses use the language R for building their models. Each professor teaches a version they prefer to use. They provide fairly good tutorials to get you going. In addition, we also teach a basic programming course, MIS 5320 (management in information systems) that introduces students to the Python language. Python is a widely adopted programming language among data science professionals. This is a required course in the curriculum.

Does my Diploma differentiate between an online or an on-campus program?

No, your diploma will not state an online vs. on-campus program.

Will SQL, R, Python, SAS and Tableau be covered in either core or elective courses?

MIS 5320, Fundamentals of Business Analytics Programming, exclusively for programming language learning. It covers Python. R is used predominantly in statistics courses in the program and the instructors have their own customized and simpler form of the language implementations in their courses. SAS, SQL, and Tableau are covered depending on the course. SAS and Tableau may be covered in MIS 5480. SQL and Tableau may be covered in MIS 5330. Because the technology and programming environments are constantly changing, instructors try to keep up with these changes. So, it is always good practice to review the course syllabi of the courses and inquire directly with the course instructors for up-to-date information.

Do I have to attend courses at a structured time?

If students select 100 percent online delivery, then the program is entirely online and asynchronous. Students can do it at their own pace within the allotted semester. They should make sure they review and follow the course syllabus for information on access to and due dates of course work. For those choosing on-campus delivery, they will have to attend courses at a structured time.

Do you accept applications year-round?

Most applicants may join the program in the spring, summer, or fall semester. International students may only begin the the fall or spring semester.

Master of Finance (MFIN)

As an Iowa State undergraduate student, is the GMAT required to be accepted into the MFIN program?

The GMAT/GRE is no longer required to be accepted into the MFIN program.

How does one become a graduate assistant (GA)?

The Master of Finance has two graduate assistantships available for qualified students, awarded on a competitive basis. There may also be additional GA opportunities available from other departments. To be considered for a GA position, please check the box on your online application that states, “Would you like to request an assistantship?” After checking this box, you will be considered for a position. However, this does not guarantee you will receive a position.

Can a student be a graduate assistant for multiple professors?

A graduate assistant may be assigned to one professor or shared between multiple professors, depending upon departmental needs. One can typically be awarded only one graduate assistantship at a time.

Would you recommend obtaining an MFIN degree and MBA degree at the same time?

If students want to work strictly in finance, an MBA is unnecessary. If the goal is to move into middle/senior management at an organization at some point, then an MBA degree would also be desirable.

How many students will be in my classes?

Class size varies, but graduate classes generally have 10-25 students.

How many core and elective courses are offered during the summer?

There are select graduate elective courses offered during the summer semester. Below are two finance courses available during the summer semester:

FIN 5200: Investments.
FIN 5760: Real Estate Market Analysis.

Please note that this list is subject to change. Updated lists of all available summer, fall, and spring graduate courses can be found here.

How many graduate assistantships are available for MFIN students?

The Master of Finance provides two graduate assistantships to qualified students. There may also be additional GA opportunities available from other departments. Contact the other departments on your own to see if they have assistantships available. Assistantship availability is not centrally listed anywhere. Once you are on campus, you can approach various departments and colleges in person and check for the availability of assistantships.

When is the best time to start applying?

It is recommended that applicants submit their online applications sooner rather than later since graduate assistantships and scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis. Our program admits students year-round.

Applications are due:
Fall semester: June 15.
Spring semester: November 15.
Summer semester: March 15.

Does ISU provide GMAT/GRE study materials?

No, but these may be found for sale online.

What is the course workload like compared to undergraduate?

Ivy MFIN courses are faster-paced, more interactive, group focused, and have a heavier emphasis on applying critical thinking and technical skills to real-world finance scenarios. The Master of Finance explores a greater breadth of concepts compared to undergraduate finance courses. This master’s program also provides greater depth to each of these financial topics, allowing students to further develop their technical, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Enrolling in nine credits is considered full-time for a graduate student.

What are the key concepts that I will learn through the Master of Finance Program?

The Master of Finance allows students to gain extensive knowledge in many areas including, but not limited to:

Analytical Finance.
Advanced Corporate Finance.
Financial Accounting.
Financial Analysis and Valuation.

Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

Does the program contain management-related aspects?

Other than knowing the cutting-edge information technologies (IT) that are available to firms, students in this program will learn the strategies for managing IT. These strategies cover areas such as IT investment, IT acquisition, vendor relationship management, system design, and implementation, IT project management, employee awareness and training, information security and privacy, and regulatory compliance.

Is this program a good fit for someone who has worked in the industry for a while and is now returning to school?

This MSIS program will offer tremendous value for IT professionals who hope to assume more managerial roles and for business professionals who wish to understand IT.

Is there anyone I can connect with to gain insight into employers and employment opportunities in Iowa?

Our Graduate Career Services staff provides information on MSIS graduates and their first jobs.

Does this program have any prerequisites?

The MSIS program trains students in managing IT to help business firms succeed in competitions. If an applicant does not know much about either IT or business, then it is for the interest of the person to develop a plan on how to acquire basic information in those areas, before joining the MSIS program. At the time of application, an applicant who has no background in IT or business can include such a plan in their Statement of Purpose to convince the admission officer that the applicant is prepared for the MSIS program.

How long does it take to complete the application process and enroll in the program?

The application process involves the Graduate College, the Graduate Office of the Ivy College of Business, and the MSIS Director. An applicant is suggested to apply early, when all parties involved have more free time.

Do you accept applications year-round?

Most applicants may join the program in the spring, summer, or fall semester. International students may only begin the the fall or spring semester.

What are the things that really interest students in this program and the overall university?

Cutting-edge IT has become the driving force for innovations and transformations in the world. MSIS helps future business leaders harness IT to help an organization stay competitive in the digital economy. As a result, MSIS graduates are popular in the market, and their compensations are high.

It is also important to understand that MSIS is different from computer science or computer engineering. While those programs focus on the creation of IT tools, the MSIS program focuses on the application of IT tools in the business context (e.g., using IT to solve business problems or capture business opportunities). So, the MSIS courses are much less technical when compared with the other two majors.

Are there any available funding opportunities or financial aid available?

Graduate assistantships in the MSIS program are available on a limited basis. In-state applicants can also apply for the Heartland scholarship. Students have also received several other scholarships (e.g., Ivy scholarships). Outside the MSIS program, the Ivy College of Business, various Iowa State departments, and many university offices have also funded MSIS students.

What other expenses can I expect besides tuition fees? What is the average cost of living in Ames? (living expenses, transportation, etc.)

Costs may vary depending on an individual’s choice of housing, transportation, and more. Iowa State offers a commuter parking lot where students can park near campus during the day, the CyRide bus system that has routes through every part of campus, and on-campus graduate living for those who do not wish to commute. Full-time graduate students may choose to live on campus in dedicated housing options located in Wallace Hall, Frederiksen Court and SUV. A comprehensive list of all rates and fees can be found through the Department of Residence. Graduate students may also choose to live off-campus.