Master of Arts in Native American Studies

at Montana State University - Bozeman USA

In the graduate program for Plant Pathology at Montana State, candidates investigate major problems in plant pathology within MSU’s state of the art agricultural facilities. Sample research projects include, but are not limited to, soil-borne diseases in cereals, the genetic root of disease resistance in field crops, cereal leaf spots, viral diseases inherent in cereals and potatoes, bacterial diseases in plants, and the biochemistry and molecular genetics of general plant diseases. Not only does this research apply to making a healthier and more robust food supply, but the research also seeks to develop new technology to manage crop pests.

In the Rangeland Ecology & Management program at Montana State, students are given a background in ecological principles as preparation for managing rangelands in the western United States. Along with coursework in resource inventory, watersheds, rangeland restoration and vegetation ecology, Rangeland Ecology & Management students are able to select courses which focus on either production agriculture or other natural resource areas.

Kinesiology students at Montana State not only learn about the psychological and historical influence of human movement, but also how those perspectives then affect the physiological aspects of human performance and recovery. Studying both the theoretical and practical aspects of human performance helps prepare students for a variety of professions in physical activity and sport. Not only do graduates enter into careers within corporate and commercial fitness and wellness programs, but are also prepared for professional certifications through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

An understanding of developmental biology, cellular biology, neurobiology and physiology are important foundations for careers in the medical and dental fields. Students studying the Cell Biology and Neuroscience option at Montana State gain an understanding in a wide range of biological subjects with real-world, hands-on research experiences and mentorship opportunities with award-winning faculty. For students interested in furthering their education in the health sciences, the Health Professions Advising office facilitates exciting opportunities to explore these careers, as well as resources for applying to professional schools after graduation.

Microbiology is a diverse discipline that has become an umbrella term for a variety of studies, including bacteriology, mycology, protozoology, phycology, parasitology and virology. In the Environmental Health program at Montana State, students are able to delve into the study of medical microbiology, virology, immunology and molecular biology in order to prepare for careers in the public health sector.

Students in the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at Montana State immerse themselves in the fundamentals of computing while exploring fields such as artificial intelligence, multimedia and computational biology. Computer Science B.S. students have two tracks to choose from: the Professional Option, which allows students to delve more deeply into computer science and related technical areas, and the Interdisciplinary Option, which allows students to intersect their technological interests with other fields that range from Entrepreneurship to Japanese Studies.

Candidates in the Community Health graduate program at Montana State integrate public health theory and critical thinking in an interdisciplinary program that allows students to design their course of study with a faculty mentor in order to ensure that their curriculum is aligned with professional interests and goals. In addition to nurturing close professional relationships with faculty mentors, Community Health candidates also gain hands-on research experience with research projects and partnerships with rural or Native American communities.

Industrial & Management Systems Engineers optimize the ways in which organizations deliver goods and services, often bridging gaps between management and operations teams in business organizations. In the Industrial & Management Systems Engineering program at Montana State, students learn how to apply mathematical models and engineering problem-solving skills to improve efficiency and create safer and more productive workplaces. For interested students, Montana State has a seamless master’s degree program for qualified Industrial & Management Systems Engineering undergraduate students as well.

Candidates in the Innovation and Management graduate program at Montana State develop skills and knowledge in an innovative one-year program designed to accelerate their career potential, either through entrepreneurship or leadership in existing organizations. The Innovation and Management program is made for candidates interested in innovating, leading, and solving challenging problems, especially in the design, science, technology, engineering, or math fields. Innovation and Management students will expand their skill sets through first-hand experiences working on projects with researchers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders and government programming.

Students within the Environmental Studies program at Montana State combine the traditional foundation of a broad-based liberal arts education with in-depth study of environmental issues from both a scientific and public policy perspective. As part of the Liberal Studies department, Environmental Studies students take a series of integrative seminars designed to provide a sense of academic community and improve their critical thinking and communication skills, all while obtaining a better understanding of the factual knowledge and theoretical foundations of the subjects they’re studying.