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We are now accepting applications for Fall 2023!

Applying to the graduate program in EBIO at CU Boulder includes the FIRED UP program.

The very first step in your journey of thinking about graduate school is identifying which topics are most exciting to you. Which ecosystems, species, or questions ignite your curiosity? That is where you start.

When you find the topic that interests you most, explore which faculty lead labs that do research related to your interests. Check out the EBIO faculty websites, read through their research descriptions, and read some of their published research articles to get an idea for whether the kind of work they do fits with your interests.

Graduate school is an incredible time of discovery and you want to make sure that the topic you choose is one you are excited about.

How to Apply

Step 1

Once you have identified the topics you are most interested to study in graduate school, identify which EBIO faculty do work related to your interests. Contact them by email - this is an important step in making a first connection! Often, faculty like to hear about you as a person, your academic background, lab and fieldwork experiences, and what you are most excited about in terms of research topics. For each faculty person you want to contact, be sure to check their website to see if they offer specific guidance for prospective students such as whether you should send a CV or address any particular questions in your email. Sometimes, you may need to re-send your email, in case someone misses it the first time. Be sure to ask if they are recruiting new graduate students this cycle, and if so, ask to set up a remote meeting.

Step 2

If the potential faculty advisor you would like to work with is recruiting new graduate students, and if their lab seems like a good fit to you, consider applying to the EBIO graduate program. Communicate with your potential faculty advisor about which degree track is the best fit for your goals (Master’s or PhD).

Step 3

Applications for the EBIO graduate program are due December 1, 2022. We do NOT require GRE scores. Application fees may apply ($60 for domestic US applicants, $80 for international applicants). The application consists of a personal statement (2-3 page narrative about your experiences and your interests), undergraduate transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and an application fee. See more information via the EBIO graduate applicant site, which will route you to the CU Graduate School application.

Financial support

 

Students admitted to the FIRED UP program will be offered a financial relocation and incentive package to remove cost barriers from the application and decision-making processes.

This incentive package can be used by enrollees to cover the costs associated with: moving, temporary storage of belongings before August leases begin, transportation, subsistence during moving, personal gear needed for fieldwork and resident at the MRS, such as a sleeping bag, hiking boots, rain gear, outdoor clothing, backpacks, sun protection, etc.

 
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FAQs

When is the FIRED UP program?

The program will run during the month before the graduate school semester begins. In 2023, FIRED UP will run for about two weeks in mid August. Graduate School orientation starts the week of August 21, and the first day of classes at CU Boulder is August 28, 2023.

What is the weather like in the mountains in July and August?

It is gorgeous. Because the MRS sits at 9,000 feet above sea level, the weather is very comfortable in the late summer. Daytime temperatures are often in the 70s (˚F) and night time can drop to the 40s-50s (˚F). Snow can be visible on the distant high peaks surrounding the MRS but snow is not on the ground of the MRS in summer.

How much does it cost?

There is no added cost. Participant costs are paid for when students are admitted to the EBIO graduate program. We will also offer financial packages to assist with the cost of moving to Colorado and obtaining personal field gear needed to stay at the MRS.

Can I join FIRED UP if I am not admitted to the EBIO graduate program?

No. Participation in FIRED UP will only be offered to students admitted to the EBIO graduate program.

 Have additional questions? Send us an email!

Photo by William Bowman

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