Ranching Systems Degree Student Application

Ranching Systems Degree Student Application | 2028 Graduation Cohort

2024 Application Period: Sept. 2 - 19, 2025

The Ranching Systems Degree at Montana State University is a limited enrollment program with the goal of providing the high-quality, individually tailored educational opportunities to prepare students with the diverse array of skills in livestock production, rangeland ecology, business management and human resources needed by today’s ranch managers.

This application is open to sophomore students who have a minimum of 36 credits (including currently enrolled classes) in courses related to the Ranching Systems degree plan and have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better. If you have questions about your eligibility to apply, please contact Rachel Frost, frost@montana.edu.

Ranching Systems Degree Application Instructions:

DOWNLOAD APPLICATION HERE: https://animalrange.montana.edu/ranchingsystems_docs/Ranching%20Systems%20Student%20Application_2025.pdf

The application process is a time for examining and expressing one’s commitment to the program, expectations of the experience, and career objectives. Remember, the application process is focused on potential, rather than immediate qualifications. Do not try to exaggerate previous experience or skills. The truth is the absolute best currency in the application process.

TIPS: Read the application carefully and follow directions completely! The Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success can help you with resume preparation, cover letters and interview preparation. The MSU Writing Center can help with concise wording on essay questions. I encourage you to take advantage of these resources throughout the application process. 

1. Review the application instructions.

2.  Complete the Application and Skills Assessment.

3. Combine all required application files in the order below into a single pdf file and submit applications via email to the program lead by 11:59 of the final due date. Send completed applications to Rachel Frost, frost@montana.edu

1. Cover Letter – Introduce yourself and describe your background (both on and off-ranch). Tell us why you chose to apply for the Dan Scott Ranch Management Program. What are your career goals and how will a B.S in Ranching Systems prepare you to achieve those goals?  
2. Résumé – Limit to two pages; use the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success for feedback and proofing
3. Application form – Four general questions, three essay questions, and a skills assessment (pages 3-4 of the application document)
4. Two letters of recommendation from non-relatives, (at least one letter should be from a previous employer / supervisor). A description of the ranching systems degree to share with your references can be downloaded here.
5. Current transcripts – include all secondary schools attended (these can be unofficial)
6. Release of transcripts form – Permission to share your unofficial transcripts with the interview committee, (page 5 of the application document).

General Questions:

(For viewing accessibility only. Answer these questions on the application, which can be downloaded here.)

1. Do you have a dog that you will need to take with you this summer? Yes                   No
   
   
2. Have you been convicted of DUI or another offense that would limit your ability to be insured to drive a host-ranch vehicle? Yes        No
   
   
3. Most host ranches are very accommodating for family-related leave, weddings, and other commitments of short duration. Do you have any lengthy commitments that would prevent you from serving a full 12 weeks in your internship? Yes         No

           If answered “Yes”, please explain___________________________________________________________

4. What is the monthly salary, in addition to housing, that you expect to receive when working as a intern? $________________________

Essay Questions:

(For viewing accessibility only. Answer these questions on the application, which can be downloaded here.)

Please answer each question on a separate page. Limit responses to one double-spaced page in 12-point font. Include the question at the top of each page.

1. ESSAY QUESTION: What do you believe are two essential professional skills that a ranch manager should possess? What are your strengths and weaknesses relative to these skills and how will this degree program grow your strengths and help you address and overcome your weaknesses?
   
   
2. ESSAY QUESTION: In your opinion, what are the two most important short-term (e.g. 2 years) and the two most pressing long-term (e.g. 10-20 years) issues / challenges facing the ranching industry in the US?
   
   
3. ESSAY QUESTION: Acceptance into the DSRMP includes two summer sessions as an intern on a working ranch. Describe your ideal host ranch. What are your goals for the 12-week internship (what would you like to learn, what experience do you wish to gain, what skills would you like to build or acquire)? What is your plan for achieving these goals during the internship?

Skills Assessment:

For accessible viewing only. Please complete the assessment on the application, which can be downloaded here.

Please check the box that best describes your experience in each of the following skills / activities:
“Competent” = can perform without supervision / help
“Have Done” = Done in the past, but would need help or additional training
“New to This” = No experience with this task or skill

Montana State University Diversity Statement

Montana State University is committed to creating a culture of intellectual and personal growth. Because learning is enhanced when topics are examined from diverse perspectives and because individuals possess unique outlooks which reflect the world around us, Montana State University is dedicated to creating an inclusive community that embraces a rich mix in the composition of its student body, staff and faculty. The distinction in viewpoints that comes from differences in race, gender, age, language, socioeconomic status, religion, political affiliation and geographical background are appreciated and valued at MSU as important aspects of the campus community at every level and in every sector of the campus.

To this end, MSU welcomes international students and faculty and enthusiastically seeks engagement with peers from around the globe to expand our depth of understanding and share in the discovery of knowledge. MSU has an especially strong commitment to Native Peoples and actively engages in the development of social and educational initiatives to preserve the cultural integrity of all American Indian students, faculty and staff. MSU strives to advance the ideals of human worth and dignity for all by facilitating open discussion, supporting rational resolution of conflict and encouraging on-going examination of values.

Montana State University Discrimination Policy Statement

Montana State University’s campuses are committed to providing an environment that emphasizes the dignity and worth of every member of its community and that is free from harassment and discrimination based upon race, color, religion, national origin, creed, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), veteran’s status, sex, age, political ideas, marital or family status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation. Such an environment is necessary to a healthy learning, working, and living atmosphere because discrimination and harassment undermine human dignity and the positive connection among all people at our University. Acts of discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and retaliation will be addressed consistent with this policy.