Admissions: Graduate Certificate in Forests and Climate Change – Online

Admissions requirements

• Bachelor's degree in any social or natural science field. The degree should include basic courses in biology, ecology and economics.
• A minimum 3.0 GPA
• Preferred background includes two years of natural resources-related experience. This can include work, volunteerism or other experiences in natural resources.

When to apply

This program allows students to start during the fall, winter or spring terms.

You should have a complete application, including all supporting materials, on file no later than eight weeks before the first day of the academic term that you intend to start. International students should apply at least two months before the normal deadline.

How to apply

Apply to the OSU Graduate School

Apply as a degree-seeking student using the OSU Graduate School’s online application form.
The nonrefundable application fee is $75.

Submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended.

NOTE: Although the Graduate School application is submitted online electronically – and all of the documentation (scores, transcripts, etc.) can be uploaded as attachments – some students may choose to mail their documentation. Accompanying materials can be mailed to the Graduate School (Heckart Lodge, 2900 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331).

You DO NOT have to mail AND submit your documents electronically.

Apply to the Forests and Climate Change (FCC) program

Submit a cover letter requesting admission to the program, including a statement of objectives and a brief description of a proposed study problem in forests and climate change for your independent project.

Submit three professional references. Provide the names and email addresses of three individuals who will supply letters of reference on your behalf. These individuals will be contacted directly by the OSU Graduate School and asked to independently upload their letters.

NOTE: International applicants must also submit documents and language test scores that are outlined on the graduate admissions international applicants webpage.

Once admitted into the FCC graduate certificate program, you must:

• Complete a minimum of 3 credits per term except summer (If necessary, you may request a formal leave of absence
• Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 each term you are enrolled
• Complete all required courses

Apply to take courses as a nondegree-seeking student

If you don't want to apply to the OSU Graduate School but would like to take individual classes that are part of the FCC graduate certificate curriculum, you may apply to OSU as a nondegree-seeking graduate student.

Nondegree-seeking students who may later wish to apply to a graduate degree program should be aware that a maximum of 9 credits earned as a nondegree-seeking student may be transferred to a graduate certificate or degree program. For additional details, please refer to the "Nondegree Status" section of Admission to Oregon State University.