Ranching Systems Degree Student Application

Ranching Systems Degree Student Application | 2029 Graduation Cohort

Application Period: Sept. 30 - Oct. 16, 2026

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.

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.

Ranching Systems Degree Application Instructions:

DOWNLOAD APPLICATION HERE:https://animalrange.montana.edu/danscott/documents/2026_Application.pdf

TIPS FOR COMPLETING THE APPLICATION:

1. Read the application requirements carefully and follow directions completely!

2. Combine all files into a single pdf file with the materials embedded in the order below. Save the file as: YourName DSRMP Application 2026, e.g. John Doe DSRMP Application 2026.

3. Submit completed application to Rachel Frost (frost@montana.edu) via email before midnight of the final due date. 

APPLICATION MATERIALS:

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 inRanching Systems prepare you to achieve those goals?

2.Résumé: Limit to two pages; include both on and off-ranch work experience

3. Completed application form, essay questions & skills assessment: Four general questions, three essayquestions, and a skills assessment (pages 3-4 of this document).

4.Two letters of recommendation: From non-relatives; at least one letter should be from a previous employer /supervisor

5.Current transcripts: Include all post-secondary schools attended (these can be unofficial)

6. Release of transcript

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 bedownloaded 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 the two most important professional skills of an effective ranch manager? Describe your current strengths and areas for growth related to these skills. Provide specific examples from your experiences and explain how participation in the Dan Scott Ranch Management Program will help you continue to develop as a future ranch manager.
   
   
2. ESSAY QUESTION: What do you believe are the two most significant challenges facing the U.S. ranching industry in the next 2 to 5 years and the two most significant challenges in the next 10 to 20 years? Explain why these issues are important and how ranch managers can help address them.
   
   
3. ESSAY QUESTION: The DSRMP includes two summer ranch internships. Describe the type of host ranch that would best support your professional development. Identify three specific learning goals you hope to achieve during the internship and explain how you will take initiative and work with your host ranch to accomplish those goals.

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.