Looking for a fully funded Master’s scholarship in the USA? The North Dakota State University Scholarship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for students from all countries to pursue a research-based Master’s degree in the United States. The scholarship offers full tuition coverage, a $25,000 annual stipend, and the opportunity to work on an internationally funded research project in collaboration with leading researchers.

The position is supervised by Dr. Dillon Fogarty at the School of Natural Resource Sciences (SNRS), North Dakota State University (NDSU). The research focuses on understanding how juniper removal influences forage production in North Dakota’s Badlands. This project is funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the North Dakota Natural Resources Trust.

• Host Country: United States
• Host University: North Dakota State University (NDSU)
• Department: School of Natural Resource Sciences (SNRS)
• Degree Level: Master’s (Research-Based)
• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
• Funding Organizations: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation & North Dakota Natural Resources Trust
• Eligible Countries: All Countries
• Annual Stipend: $25,000
• Tuition Coverage: Full Tuition
• Application Deadline: August 15, 2026

Successful applicants will receive:

• Full tuition fee coverage throughout the Master’s program.
• Annual living stipend of $25,000.
• Fully funded research opportunity.
• Supervision by experienced faculty members.
• Opportunity to participate in a nationally funded ecological research project.
• Hands-on experience in:
  • Rangeland ecology
  • Forage production
  • Natural resource management
  • Vegetation sampling
  • Scientific research
• Work alongside graduate students, faculty members, research specialists, and postdoctoral researchers.
• Opportunity to develop independent research ideas and complete a Master’s thesis.

Applicants must:

• Have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic and high motivation.
• Hold a valid driver’s license.
• Be physically capable of lifting up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
• Be able to walk more than 2 miles over rough terrain.
• Have experience in:
  • Plant identification
  • Vegetation sampling in rangelands
  • Scientific writing
• Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Show professionalism while working with ranchers and conservation professionals.
• Be willing to provide writing samples during the interview process if requested.

Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:

• Updated CV/Resume
• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Cover letter explaining research interests and motivation
• Contact details for professional or academic references
• Valid driver’s license
• Writing sample (if requested during the interview)
• Any additional supporting documents required by the supervisor

Submit one combined document (pdf or doc) to Dillon.fogarty@ndsu.edu that includes:

1) a cover letter discussing your experience and qualifications along with future goals,

2) curriculum vitae/resume,

3) transcripts (unofficial), 

4) contact information for three professional references. In your email submission, use the following subject line: MS Assistantship: Juniper Encroachment. Review will begin as applications are received, but the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Please direct questions to dillon.fogarty@ndsu.edu. 

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