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Delivery of this program is 100 percent online: no campus visits are required. However, we strongly encourage you to attend at least three optional summer workshops on campus (last week of June, Sunday through Friday), where you may present your research line of inquiry and obtain feedback.
Successful completion requires a minimum of 72 credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree, 15 of which must be at the 8000 to 9000 level. You may apply no more than 30 credit hours from the master’s level toward your PhD.
Course planner
The chart below shows when the courses are traditionally offered. Courses are 3 credit hours each, unless stated otherwise. The University reserves the right to change or cancel courses as needed.
Nondegree-seeking enrollment
Prior to acceptance into the program, you may enroll in up to 12 credit hours as a nondegree-seeking (in some cases, post-baccalaureate) student. Enrollment does not guarantee acceptance. Learn more about nondegree-seeking university student admissions.
Culmination
This program culminates in a comprehensive examination and a written dissertation embodying the results of your original and significant investigation. You must complete the comprehensive at least seven months before your final defense of your dissertation.
State authorization
States require that the University of Missouri-Columbia be authorized to deliver university-level distance/online education to their residents. Each state handles this process differently.
Please see our state authorization page for more information.
- Program authorized
Authorized
Students residing in all states are eligible to enroll in this program.