College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Range Science (Ph.D.)
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Range Science (Ph.D.)
Lead the Science of Sustainability — Earn Your Ph.D. in Range Science at NMSU
The Doctor of Philosophy in Range Science at New Mexico State University prepares the next generation of scholars, researchers, and leaders to address global challenges in rangeland ecology and sustainability. Building on advanced principles of ecosystem dynamics, plant and animal interactions, watershed and soil management, and resource economics, this program fosters original research that drives real-world impact. Doctoral students work alongside internationally recognized faculty, conducting cutting-edge research that spans arid-land restoration, climate change adaptation, and sustainable grazing systems.
Admission Deadlines
February 15 (fall admission) and October 1 (spring admission)
- Total credits: 30
- Total dissertation credits: 18
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Range Science program are equipped for leadership and innovation across academia, research, and policy. Possible career pathways include:
- University professor or research scientist
- Senior range ecologist or environmental program director
- Global consultant in sustainable land and water use
- Policy advisor for natural resource or agricultural agencies
- Director of ecological monitoring or habitat restoration programs
- Nonprofit or NGO leader in conservation and sustainability
- International development specialist focused on climate resilience and food security
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Range Science? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D., in Range Science at NMSU?
Choosing NMSU’s Ph.D. in Range Science means joining a legacy of research excellence and environmental leadership. You’ll have access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge field and lab facilities, and an environment rich with opportunities to publish, present, and collaborate. The program emphasizes both independent inquiry and applied impact, ensuring your work contributes to solving the critical challenges of our time — from sustainable agriculture to global ecosystem resilience. Graduates leave ready to shape policy, lead research initiatives, and guide the future of land management at local and international levels.
Dedicated Research Center
The program has access to a dedicated research centers such as the Chihuahuan Desert Rangeland Research Center (CDRRC)
NMSU's Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Range Science requires a minimum of 30 credits of graduate work plus 18 credits of dissertation (RGSC 700), completion of a qualifying exam during the first semester of graduate work, completion of a comprehensive exam, completion of a final exam.
Take classes like:
- RGSC 509 - Approaches to Rangeland Research
- RGSC 513 - Advanced Rangeland Ecology
- RGSC 516 - Arid Land Management
- RGSC 518 - Watershed Methods and Management
- RGSC 520 - Arid Land Plant Herbivore Interactions
- RGSC 551 - Earth Data Retrieval
GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for admission.
Application: The application includes a personal statement, transcripts, CV, and three letters of recommendation.
Ready to take the next step?
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Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.