Welcome to the Biology Department PSM Program
We are excited to get to know you better and determine if we are a good fit for your career direction and professional growth. Our PSM degree is a rigorous and competitive program. Being a unique specialization, we are looking for students that are passionate, articulate, and creative who will shine both in their graduate work and in future employment. Showcasing your soft skills in your application is important. We are training future leaders.
We value the individuality and rich history that different peoples and populations bring to our academic community, which is the embodiment of the University’s land grant mission and heritage. We seek applicants from a broad range of backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints.
Fall 2027 Application Cycle Now Open!
We are now accepting applications for the in-person (RI) and distance (online) PSM program pathways as of September 14, 2026! Priority application deadlines to begin the program in Fall 2027 vary. See the box to the right for application cycle timelines and tips.
We invite you to explore this website, particularly the admissions information below along with the PSM Curriculum and PSM FAQ pages for details and insights on our application, program, and student experience. If you’re interested in the online pathway of our program, we also invite you to visit our CSU Online page for additional details.
Apply now or contact PSM Program Coordinator Annie Wallin with any questions!
Application Fees
Skip the fee, apply for free!
- Your application fee will be automatically waived if you earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally (HLC) accredited Colorado Institution or a U.S. Land-Grant Institution. Learn more about fee waivers on the Graduate School website.
- Accelerated Master’s Program (AMP) applicants: there is no fee associated with the AMP application process and your application fee for the CSU Graduate School will be waived since you’re a CSU student!
2027 Application Cycle Dates & Deadlines
- The application cycle for Fall 2027 applicants is now open. We only admit students in fall semesters.
- In-person 2-Year Traditional or Accelerated Master’s Program (AMP) applicants:
- Applicants for the 2-Year Traditional PSM Program pathway should apply through the Graduate School application portal.
- AMP applicants (as described in the curriculum page) should apply through this Microsoft Form for consideration to start the PSM program concurrently with your final year of undergraduate study in Biology or Zoology.
- Accepted students will complete the CSU Graduate School application in their final year of undergraduate study for formal admission to the CSU Graduate School.
- Completed applications for Fall 2027 recieved by January 1, 2027, will receive priority consideration for in-person (also called residential instruction or RI) program pathways.
- The first round of applicants will be reviewed after the deadline closes.
- Competitive applications received after January 1 will be reviewed and considered on a space-available basis following the processing of the initial pool of applicants.
- Online (distance) applicants:
- Apply through the Graduate School application portal.
- Complete applications for Fall 2027 received through June 15, 2027 will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Competitive applications received after June 15 will be reviewed on a space-available basisfollowing the processing of the initial pool of applicants.
What we’re looking for
2-Year Traditional Program and AMP Applicants
Strong undergraduate record and GPA
- Students who took a rigorous undergraduate schedule in a science field are the most qualified applicants, though students come from a variety of undergraduate backgrounds.
- The minimum cumulative GPA for non-provisional admittance to the Graduate School is a 3.000 GPA (on a 4.0 scale). Applicants with a cumulative GPA below 3.000 can be admitted provisionally through alternative pathways.
- For more information, please check out our FAQ section.
Demonstrated interest in the field
- We ask for a resume or CV detailing prior employment, internships, or volunteer experience in animal-related organizations to show a commitment to this career path.
- Be thorough and complete when describing past experiences. We are looking for 3-4 internships or equivalent volunteer/work experience in the field.
Well-written and informative statement of purpose
- A well-composed and creative statement of purpose can help us identify students who are passionate and committed as well as highlight unique skills and perspectives.
- In the statement of purpose, we’re hoping to learn more about your connection to the field and how this degree will further your career path.
Three letters of recommendation
- Strong letters of recommendation that allow us to get to know you as a student, future leader, and person will help us evaluate your likelihood to succeed in our program and in the field of management. A strong letter will comment on:
- Your character and professionalism
- Your ability to succeed in rigorous coursework
- Your ability to think critically
- Your attitude and demeanor
Graduate record exam (GRE) scores not required
- GRE scores are not required for application to the PSM program nor the Department of Biology.
3-Year Online Program Additional Requirements
In addition to the application requirements and elements listed above, we ask that online students demonstrate dedication to the field with increased work experience
- Minimum of 3-5 years paid, professional experience in relevant field-related organizations.
If you are selected as a top candidate, we may ask to schedule an interview (by phone, Zoom, or in person). We are interested in students who can communicate their ideas with distinction and demonstrate a deep commitment to excellence.
To learn more about the requirements and curricula for our PSM program pathways (2-year traditional, AMP, and 3-year online), visit the PSM Curriculum page.
