Department of Agricultural Education & Studies

AgEd Master of Science Program - Thesis Option

This program is viewed as having a dual role. Candidates work towards improving their professional proficiency and status while developing knowledge and skill related to research. A course in research methods and statistics must be included in the program of study. Candidates must pass a final oral examination conducted by the candidate’s graduate committee. The oral examination focuses on courses taken, professional experiences, and defense of the thesis.

Program of Study Requirements

Program Requirements	Required Course or Equivalent	Credits
Introduction to Research	AGEDS 510	3
Instructional Methods	AGEDS 520	3
Program Planning	AGEDS 524	3
Learning Theory	AGEDS 533	3
Foundations of Agricultural Education	AGEDS 550	3
Data Analysis and Interpretation	AGEDS 552	3
Research	AGEDS 699	3
Electives		10
Total Required Credits		30

Note: 22 credits must be earned at Iowa State University.

For a specialization in Agricultural Extension Education, a graduate course in each of the following areas is required: program planning, program evaluation, and instructional methods. The thesis must be related to agricultural extension education. Students who wish to focus on extension are encouraged to review “A Sampling of Courses Supportive of an Extension Graduate Focus” (Adobe Reader Required).

Potential Course Sequence

Year 1 - Fall	Credits	Year 1 - Spring	Credits
AGEDS 550 AGEDS 524 Elective	3 3 3	AGEDS 510 AGEDS 533 Elective	3 3 3
Year 2 - Fall		Year 2 - Spring
AGEDS 520 AGEDS 552 Elective	3 2 3	AGEDS 699 Elective	3 1

Admission Procedures

Before applying for admission, students are encouraged to acquaint themselves with the Department of Agricultural Education and Studies. Explore the following website: http://www.ageds.iastate.edu/index.htm. Contact any of our faculty and staff at anytime with questions. It is important that your educational goals and interests align with the expertise and focus areas of the department. If you decide that one of our programs would help you to achieve your personal and professional goals, we cordially invite you to apply for admission.

Directions for admission that are outlined on the Internet at: http://www.admissions.iastate.edu/graduate/index.php

Key components of the application for admission include:

Application form.
Three letters of reference.
Note: At least one letter should be from a professor who is knowledgeable about your academic performance. Ask references to comment on past academic performance, potential to succeed in graduate school, character and work habits, and whether they believe that a graduate program in Agricultural Education is consistent with their knowledge of your personal and professional goals.
An official transcript from all schools attended after high school.
A resume or vita.
A 300- to 500-word statement of your reasons for pursing the degree sought.
Note: The goal statement should provide reasons for pursuing the degree sought. Explain how the degree will help you to achieve your goals. Also describe your experiences and background in agriculture, formal agricultural education, and/or agricultural extension education.
International students must submit a TOEFL score. The minimum score is 213 (IELTS 6.5).

Application Deadlines

March 15 - Deadline for persons desiring admission in the following summer or fall semester.

October 15 - Deadline for persons desiring admission for the following spring semester.