University of Missouri-Kansas city

Program requirements

The program is comprised of at least 60 credit hours, including:

• 24 credit hours in your focus area (courses are selected in collaboration with your advisors)
• 12 research-related hours
• 12 credit hours in a corollary subject area
• 12 dissertation hours

Complete course listing on Academic Catalog

Program benchmarks

• Complete coursework in PK-12 leadership, higher education and/or the foundations of education.
• Supplement your studies with coursework in related academic disciplines and in research methods.
• Complete comprehensive exams demonstrating knowledge of research and theory in your areas of study.
• Conduct original scholarly research and report on it in a doctoral dissertation.

Costs, aid and funding opportunities

Cost is a major consideration when deciding whether to continue your education, which is why we offer a limited number of part-time program or research assistantships. These positions are subject to funding availability and may require specific background knowledge or skill sets. Contact the program coordinator for information about current availability.

Learn more about costs and other financial aid and funding opportunities that can make earning your degree more affordable.

Application procedures and requirements

1. Prepare required documentation, including:
   • Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Applicants are expected to have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 covering all college coursework taken prior to the bachelor's degree or a GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale covering all post-baccalaureate work completed to date.
   • At least two written recommendations. One must be from an academic source. The second may be from an academic or professional source.
   • A Statement of Purpose. No more than two typed, double-spaced pages including a brief summary of your academic and professional background and your rationale for why you believe this program is a fit for your professional career.
   • A recent Curriculum Vitae (CV).
   • A Writing Sample. This should provide evidence of graduate-level writing ability. This may be a writing assignment or essay examination from a previous class.

2. Complete the online application. Please be sure to pay applicable domestic or international program fees.
3. Make sure you meet discipline-specific requirements, which are listed in the Academic Catalog.
4. Participate in an interview with program faculty to assess whether doctoral studies will be an effective vehicle for advancing your scholarly and professional goals.

Application deadlines

• For fullest consideration, apply by December 15th for Fall Semester entry.
• Applications are reviewed once a year, for admission beginning the next fall term. 

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