N

Officially approved as:

Stand Alone:  Yes

Total Credit Hours:  12 

Certificate description: The program is built on the biophysical and socioeconomic principles of agroforestry which will prepare students to become specialized in agroforestry design and management.  The knowledge and experience in designing and managing agroforestry systems for commodity production as well as environmental conservation are skill sets needed to work as agroforestry and forestry consultants and conservation and natural resource professionals. The curriculum leads the student through a progression of learning to achieve (A) Agroforestry Fundamentals; (B) Biophysical Foundation; and (C) Socio-economic Foundation.. Successful required course completion will be recorded on the student’s official transcript as a “Graduate Certificate in Agroforestry.”

Certificate web site:
https://online.missouri.edu/degrees-programs/mu/cafnr/agroforestry/grad-cert

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

About the Program

Agroforestry, as a farming system that integrates crops and/or livestock with trees and shrubs, has a long history of interdisciplinary research at the University of Missouri. The interdisciplinary emphasis area capitalizes on existing agroforestry research collaborations across The School of Natural Resources (SNR) departments in building an academic program that could attract and serve quality graduate students from Missouri, the nation and the world. The agroforestry emphasis area offers both a thesis and non-thesis option. The program also offers an online option designed for professionals working in natural resources around the globe who already have an undergraduate degree in a related field. Please visit the online webpage for more information.

Application Deadlines

Applications must be received by the following dates:

• March 15 for the summer semester
• May 15 for the fall semester
• Oct. 15 for the spring semeste

Admission Criteria

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline from an accredited institution
• Undergraduate GPA: 3.0 on a scale of 4.0
• TOEFL or IELTS test scores (for non-native English speaking applicants only)

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Agroforestry Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• Statement of interest
• Résumé or CV
• TOEFL scores (if applicable)
• A minimum of three letters of recommendation and the accompanying evaluation sheets from people who can attest to the candidate’s scholastic ability and experience relevant to graduate study.
• Publications (optional)

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Admission criteria

Application deadline: Rolling

• Minimum GPA: 3.2 undergraduate GPA for the last 60 hours of coursework
• Experience in research or management of natural resources. Practical skills are strongly considered.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• A minimum of three letters of recommendation and the accompanying evaluation sheets from people who can attest to the candidate’s scholastic and conservation field work abilities
• Departmental application
• Written response to 1 of 5 questions listed on the Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences Graduate Program Admissions page
• TOEFL scores (when applicable)
• Publications (optional)
• Resume or CV

We require applicants to contact specific faculty to determine the availability of research assistantships prior to applying to the program.

An applicant contemplating graduate work in fisheries, limnology, conservation biology or wildlife should have a strong background in biological and physical sciences, including biology, botany, zoology, ecology, physiology and genetics. In addition, such taxonomic courses as plant taxonomy, invertebrate zoology, ichthyology, ornithology and mammalogy are highly desirable, as is a background in chemistry, mathematics, statistics and physics.

A background of 25 to 30 hours in biological sciences courses is desirable. Minor deficiencies may be remedied during the graduate program; major deficiencies may require preparatory coursework prior to consideration for admission.

Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences degrees emphasize resource management at organismal, population, or ecosystem scales. An emphasis on resource management helps distinguish our program from basic biology; therefore, course work in fisheries or wildlife management, environmental science, resource policy, or other applied ecology fields is advantageous.

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Admission criteria

Fall deadline: May 15
Spring deadline: October 15
Summer deadline: March 15

• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in last 60 hours
• Particular attention is given to the record of the last 2 years of undergraduate study, and/or the type and quality of professional experience since completion of the undergraduate degree. Doctoral candidates must demonstrate a higher level of achievement in each of these criteria.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Forestry Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• 3 letters of recommendation from individuals qualified to evaluate scholarly capacity and professional qualities
• Statement of purpose (an explanation/essay of your academic and career background and goals)
• Résumé
• Emphasis area application
• Sample publication (optional)

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

The Human Dimensions of Natural Resources Emphasis Area (HDNR) addresses research and management questions including peoples’ attitudes, knowledge, values, perceptions, and behaviors associated with natural resources.  As an interdisciplinary emphasis area, HDNR considers applicants with backgrounds in social sciences, environmental education, natural resources management and conservation, or related disciplines.

The MS is a research-based degree. The student is expected to work closely with a faculty advisor to develop a research topic and a program of study. Students who complete a thesis are expected to publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals. A non-thesis option is also available that requires additional coursework and a research project.

Admission Criteria

Fall deadline: Rolling
Spring deadline: Rolling

• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in last 60 hours
• TOEFL required (for non-native English speaking applicants only)

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Human Dimensions of Natural Resources Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• Statement of interest
• Résumé or CV
• TOEFL scores (if applicable)
• A minimum of three letters of recommendation and the accompanying evaluation sheets from people who can attest to the candidate’s scholastic ability and experience relevant to graduate study
• Publications (optional)

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Submit all required documents in electronic format in the Graduate School online application system. Contact the emphasis coordinator or School of Natural Resources Director of Graduate Programs if your experience any difficulties.

Admission Criteria

Application deadline: Rolling

• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in last 60 hours
• Minimum TOEFL scores: 80 (Internet); 550 (paper)
• To be accepted as a candidate for the degree, an applicant must possess an undergraduate degree and academic performance that displays a breadth and depth of University education in social, behavioral, mathematical and natural sciences and major-specific coursework.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• Statement of purpose (1-3 pages, describes your academic and career background and goals)
• Resume or CV
• College/University transcripts (from every college or university attended)
• TOEFL scores (for international applicants)
• Three letters of recommendation (use provided form and submit letters online)

Once all these items have been received, the faculty will begin our deliberations for acceptance into our program. No student is accepted without an advisor.  It is possible that you meet minimum requirements for entrance but be denied acceptance because no advisor is able to sponsor your degree program. We strongly encourage you to email or contact the professors you are interested in working with. Direct contact is a good way to introduce yourself as well as get additional information about the program

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Admission Criteria

Application deadline: Two months prior to the start of the academic semester for which the applicant is applying.

• Completion of a B.S. degree
• Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 hours of coursework
• Atmospheric science applicants: Undergraduate program should include integral calculus and one year of college physics.
• Environmental science applicants: Undergraduate program should include general and organic chemistry, introductory biology, calculus, geology, physics, and ecology.
• Soil science applicants: Completed courses in general and organic chemistry, calculus, geology and physics. Inadequacies in courses must be remedied through additional course work immediately after admission.

All applications and supporting application materials for graduate admission into the SEAS program must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Soil, Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• Letter of self-evaluation and professional goals
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• Official scores from TOEFL or IELTS is required from international applicants.

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

The Water Resources emphasis area is an interdisciplinary graduate degree program within the School of Natural Resources. It encompasses all fields of natural sciences represented in the School and, through collaboration, involves related expertise from throughout the University of Missouri and beyond. Participating faculty in the Water Resources emphasis area are engaged in both the scientific understanding of water resources (biological, chemical and physical) and its management, and the decision-making processes used to address competing societal values (social, economic and legal). The program has no geographic boundaries but the location of MU suggests most research will be directed to better understanding of water movement, biogeochemical cycling and biological processes of forested- agricultural and urban landscapes of the midcontinent. The lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands and subsurface waters of the region are prime areas for basic and applied research. One of the program’s major global impacts is the training of highly qualified graduate professionals that are equipped to address many of the complex contemporary water resource problems around the world.

Admission criteria

Application deadline: Rolling

• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in last 60 hours
• Experience in research or management of water resources. Practical skills are strongly considered.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Water Resources Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• A minimum of three letters of recommendation and the accompanying evaluation sheets from people who can attest to the candidate’s scholastic and water resources related field work abilities
• Resume or CV
• Letter of professional goals (2 page limit), indicating education, research and career goals
• Publications (optional)
• TOEFL scores (when applicable)

Applicants should contact specific faculty to determine the availability potential advisors, available position(s) in the potential advisors lab and of available research assistantships prior to applying.

An applicant contemplating graduate work in water resources should have a strong background in physical sciences, including calculus, chemistry, and physics. Those considering interdisciplinary degrees should also have a background in biology, botany, zoology, ecology and other natural sciences. A background of 25 to 30 hours in physical sciences courses is desirable. Minor deficiencies may be remedied during the graduate program; major deficiencies may require preparatory coursework prior to consideration for admission.

The Water Resources graduate degree program is integrated by a set of common courses from which students can customize their Course Plans. Students and their Advisors are not restricted to those courses, but are expected to draw from the list first when developing Course Plans.

Upon successful completion of the School of Natural Resources Water Resources graduate program, students will possess strong technical skills in water resources and related sub-disciplines. Graduates will have developed a holistic understanding of the hydrologic cycle related to ecosystem processes as and the interdisciplinary background necessary to understand and address contemporary watershed management, water quality and integrated natural resources problems. Graduates will have an appreciation of the complex interactions of biophysical processes and tightly coupled socioeconomic interactions necessary to implement water resource policy.

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Admission criteria

Application deadline: Rolling

• Minimum GPA: 3.2 undergraduate GPA for the last 60 hours of coursework
• Experience in research or management of natural resources. Practical skills are strongly considered.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed online Graduate Application for Admission
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• A minimum of three letters of recommendation and the accompanying evaluation sheets from people who can attest to the candidate’s scholastic and conservation field work abilities
• Departmental application
• Written response to 1 of 5 questions listed on the Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences Graduate Program Admissions page
• TOEFL scores (when applicable)
• Publications (optional)
• Resume or CV

We require applicants to contact specific faculty to determine the availability of research assistantships prior to applying to the program.

An applicant contemplating graduate work in fisheries, limnology, conservation biology or wildlife should have a strong background in biological and physical sciences, including biology, botany, zoology, ecology, physiology and genetics. In addition, such taxonomic courses as plant taxonomy, invertebrate zoology, ichthyology, ornithology and mammalogy are highly desirable, as is a background in chemistry, mathematics, statistics and physics.

A background of 25 to 30 hours in biological sciences courses is desirable. Minor deficiencies may be remedied during the graduate program; major deficiencies may require preparatory coursework prior to consideration for admission.

Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences degrees emphasize resource management at organismal, population, or ecosystem scales. An emphasis on resource management helps distinguish our program from basic biology; therefore, course work in fisheries or wildlife management, environmental science, resource policy, or other applied ecology fields is advantageous.

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Admission criteria

Fall deadline: May 15
Spring deadline: October 15
Summer deadline: March 15

• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in last 60 hours
• Particular attention is given to the record of the last 2 years of undergraduate study, and/or the type and quality of professional experience since completion of the undergraduate degree. Doctoral candidates must demonstrate a higher level of achievement in each of these criteria.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required application materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Forestry Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• 3 letters of recommendation from individuals qualified to evaluate scholarly capacity and professional qualities
• Statement of purpose (an explanation/essay of your academic and career background and goals)
• Résumé
• Emphasis area application
• Sample publication (optional)

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

The Human Dimensions of Natural Resources Emphasis Area (HDNR) addresses research and management questions including peoples’ attitudes, knowledge, values, perceptions, and behaviors associated with natural resources.  As an interdisciplinary emphasis area, HDNR considers applicants with backgrounds in social sciences, environmental education, natural resources management and conservation, or related disciplines.

The Ph.D. degree in HDNR is designed to prepare students for careers in academic research and teaching, or advanced scientific professions. The Ph.D. degree is conferred upon students who have demonstrated a high level of achievement in their particular specialization and have completed independent research contributing to knowledge in their respective field.

Admission Criteria

Fall deadline: Rolling
Spring deadline: Rolling

• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in last 60 hours
• TOEFL required (for non-native English speaking applicants only)

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Human Dimensions of Natural Resources Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• Statement of interest
• Résumé or CV
• TOEFL scores (if applicable)
• A minimum of three letters of recommendation and the accompanying evaluation sheets from people who can attest to the candidate’s scholastic ability and experience relevant to graduate study
• Publications (optional)

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Admission Criteria

Application deadline: Two months prior to the start of the academic semester for which the applicant is applying.

• Completion of an MS degree or equivalent. A waiver of the MS degree requirement may be made by the candidate’s doctoral program committee.
• Atmospheric science applicants: Undergraduate program should include integral calculus and one year of college physics.
• Soil science applicants: Completed courses in general and organic chemistry, calculus, geology and physics. Inadequacies in courses must be remedied through additional course work immediately after admission.

All applications and supporting application materials for graduate admission into the SEAS program must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Soil, Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• Letter of self-evaluation and professional goals
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• Official scores from TOEFL or IELTS is required from international applicants.

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

The Water Resources emphasis area is an interdisciplinary graduate degree program within the School of Natural Resources. It encompasses all fields of natural sciences represented in the School and, through collaboration, involves related expertise from throughout the University of Missouri and beyond. Participating faculty in the Water Resources emphasis area are engaged in both the scientific understanding of water resources (biological, chemical and physical) and its management, and the decision-making processes used to address competing societal values (social, economic and legal). The program has no geographic boundaries but the location of MU suggests most research will be directed to better understanding of water movement, biogeochemical cycling and biological processes of forested- agricultural and urban landscapes of the midcontinent. The lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands and subsurface waters of the region are prime areas for basic and applied research. One of the program’s major global impacts is the training of highly qualified graduate professionals that are equipped to address many of the complex contemporary water resource problems around the world.

Admission criteria

Application deadline: Rolling

• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in last 60 hours
• Experience in research or management of water resources. Practical skills are strongly considered.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Water Resources Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• A minimum of three letters of recommendation and the accompanying evaluation sheets from people who can attest to the candidate’s scholastic and water resources related field work abilities
• Resume or CV
• Letter of professional goals (2 page limit), indicating education, research and career goals
• Publications (optional)
• TOEFL scores (when applicable)
• Applicants who wish to pursue a PhD without a MS degree are required to submit either a research paper (e.g., an undergraduate thesis) OR a research proposal for the work proposed for the PhD at MU with your intended thesis advisor (10 page limit). This document should have clearly defined objectives and hypotheses. Format is flexible, but guidance on proposal structure can be found in materials required for the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP). For the research paper, please follow the format of a peer-reviewed journal article in your discipline.

Applicants should contact specific faculty to determine the availability potential advisors, available position(s) in the potential advisors lab and of available research assistantships prior to applying.

An applicant contemplating graduate work in water resources should have a strong background in physical sciences, including calculus, chemistry, and physics. Those considering interdisciplinary degrees should also have a background in biology, botany, zoology, ecology and other natural sciences. A background of 25 to 30 hours in physical sciences courses is desirable. Minor deficiencies may be remedied during the graduate program; major deficiencies may require preparatory coursework prior to consideration for admission.

The Water Resources graduate degree program is integrated by a set of common courses from which students can customize their Course Plans. Students and their Advisors are not restricted to those courses, but are expected to draw from the list first when developing Course Plans.

Upon successful completion of the School of Natural Resources Water Resources graduate program, students will possess strong technical skills in water resources and related sub-disciplines. Graduates will have developed a holistic understanding of the hydrologic cycle related to ecosystem processes as and the interdisciplinary background necessary to understand and address contemporary watershed management, water quality and integrated natural resources problems. Graduates will have an appreciation of the complex interactions of biophysical processes and tightly coupled socioeconomic interactions necessary to implement water resource policy.

Officially approved as:     

Degree Dependent:   Yes

Total Credit Hours:  12

Certificate description: The purpose of this certificate is to provide formal recognition to post baccalaureate students who are taking neuroscience courses and conducting research in neuroscience laboratories. This stand-alone certificate would allow post-baccalaureate students to have a specific, formal indication of their advanced studies and would be very beneficial to students who are considering applying to graduate degree programs or health sciences programs, such as medical or dental school.

Application Process: Please contact the Director of the INP once you are officially enrolled at MU.

Certificate website:
https://inp.missouri.edu/admission-curriculum/

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Admission Criteria

Fall deadline: December 15

• Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Minimum GRE Scores

Neuroscience comprises a united field that integrates across many disciplines, and students from a variety of academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply to the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program (INP). U.S. residents and international applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Neuroscience Program

• Neuroscience program application (built into the Graduate School online application)
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Resume
• Writing sample (optional)
• Previous research experience form (if applicable)
• GRE scores (will be optional for the Fall 2021 term applicants due to the pandemic)
• TOEFL (if applicable)

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Admission Criteria

Fall deadline: December 15

• Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Minimum GRE Scores

Neuroscience comprises a united field that integrates across many disciplines, and students from a variety of academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply to the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program (INP). U.S. residents and international applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Neuroscience Program

• Neuroscience program application (built into the Graduate School online application)
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Resume
• Writing sample (optional)
• Previous research experience form (if applicable)
• GRE scores (will be optional for the Fall 2021 term applicants due to the pandemic)
• TOEFL (if applicable)

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Note: The University is no longer accepting new applications for this program.

Qualifying Examination

The PhD program is a research program and is tailored to meet specific educational needs. To qualify for the research phase of the PhD program, the student must pass a comprehensive, multipart qualifying examination, usually administered during the first semester of study for the PhD.

PhD Plan of Study

If the student is entering the PhD program, the planned course of study will be individually evaluated by the nuclear engineering faculty. A comprehensive examination covering the student’s dissertation topic is required at least seven months before anticipated graduation.The PhD degree is a research degree, with a suitable dissertation topic to be chosen in the respective field and usually requires 24 classroom credits of advanced courses beyond the MS degree and 18 credits of research. Typical time-to-degree completion for the PhD degree is three years past the MS degree.

Admission Criteria

Fall deadline: March 1
Spring deadline for International students: September 1
Spring deadline for Domestic Students: October 1
Applications received after those time frames will be reviewed for acceptance only as time permits.

• Minimum GRE score: none set
• Minimum GPA: 3.0 during last 2 years
• Undergraduate degree (with a strong math and physics background) in an engineering field, physics, biology, chemistry or mathematics from an accredited institution.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Nuclear Engineering Program

• 3 letters of recommendation and the online recommendation form from previous instructors or technical employers who are familiar with the student’s qualifications for graduate study, submitted directly online through the application. (If the student is applying to the PhD program, one of these letters must be from the MS advisor.)
• Statement of Purpose (uploaded via online application)
• Official GRE score report Department Code 1609

Admission Criteria

The distance mediated master’s of science (MS(N)) program prepares graduates to fulfill and excel in advanced nursing practice roles requiring advanced skills in nursing education and/or leadership in delivery of health care to individuals, communities and populations.

Application Deadlines

• Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Requirements

To be considered for admission to the Sinclair School of Nursing’s master’s degree program, students must meet the following requirements:

• A degree from a nationally accredited baccalaureate nursing program.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 credit hours of the baccalaureate program.
• Current licensure as a registered nurse.
• A personal interview, upon request.
• Resume or curriculum vitae.
• A personal statement of your professional goals and how this program will help you achieve them.

International Student Admission for Nursing MS

• All international admissions are initially the responsibility of the MU Coordinator of International Student Programs. The Student Admissions and Progression Committee of the School of Nursing may not act upon any international application for admission until the applicant has been cleared through the office.
• Non-native English speaking applicants need documentation of English-language proficiency, demonstrated through a satisfactory Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score within the last two years.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

• International students must submit a photocopy of a current RN license from their home country with their Masters application.
• International nurses must obtain a Missouri RN license prior to beginning coursework.

Required Application Materials

For the Nursing Program

• The MSN program application process begins in the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS). Please contact the MSN program directly for application process.

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the MSN program)
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

The MU Sinclair School of Nursing (MU SSON) is one of a handful of PhD programs in the U.S. open to nurses and non-nurses. The interprofessional aspect of our PhD program is made possible by the wide range of academic backgrounds our MU SSON faculty have and well as our strong, interdisciplinary research connections across the campus including but not limited to biostatistics, education, family and community medicine, health informatics, human development and family science, journalism, public health, social work, and veterinary medicine.

MU SSON offers a challenging and yet enriching PhD program with two options: Online PhD Option and International Residential PhD Option. The PhD curriculum, program requirements, and program outcomes are the same whether you choose the Online PhD option or the International Residential Nursing PhD option. Only the method of course delivery varies.

Career Preparation

Our doctor of philosophy in nursing (PhD) program prepares clinical scholars, educators, and researchers for leadership roles in a variety of academic, healthcare, industry, and governmental settings. Because the knowledge and skills needed to produce excellent health-related research is not discipline specific, the PhD program does not require a prior degree in nursing. Indeed, we have had PhD students with academic preparation in health administration, health education, medical ethics, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, public health and social work.

Application Deadlines

Applications for the PhD Program are due January 1 for early acceptance and March 1 for regular acceptance. All students begin coursework the summer following program acceptance and are required to attend the N7087 Leadership and Technology Institute On-Campus Days.

International Admission for Nursing PhD Program

All international admissions are initially the responsibility of the MU Coordinator of International Student Programs. The PhD Program Committee of the School of Nursing may not act upon any international application for admission until the applicant has been cleared through the office.

Non-native English speaking applicants need documentation of English-language proficiency, demonstrated through a satisfactory Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score within the last two years.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Depending upon English-language proficiency, you may be required to enroll in English Language Support Program courses along with a reduced academic course load. You must pass these courses within the first calendar year of enrollment.

Overview of the PhD Application Process

• The PhD application is fully online via the MU Graduate School website.
• You will submit a fee to MU Graduate School when you apply.
• You will not send any items to the MU SSON at the time of application.
• Competitive applicants with a strong research mentor match are invited to participate in an interview.
• Early acceptance applicants are notified in the later part of February.
• Regular acceptance applicants are notified no later than mid-April.  All new PhD cohorts start in the summer session.

Application Requirements for the PhD in Nursing

PhD applicants entering with a bachelor’s degree: Bachelor’s  degree in nursing from NLNAC, ACEN, CNEA or CCNE-accredited school OR equivalent for non-nurse applicants; 3.3 minimum GPA (4.0 scale).

• Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements OR do not have a cumulative GPA must submit acceptable scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and the exam must have been taken within the last five years.

PhD applicants entering with a graduate degree: Master’s or doctoral degree in nursing from NLNAC, ACEN, CNEA or CCNE-accredited school OR equivalent for non-nurse applicants; minimum 3.5 GPA (4.0 scale).

• Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements or do not have a cumulative GPA must submit acceptable scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and the exam must have been taken within the last five years.

Recommended minimum GRE scores (if required)

• Completed MU Graduate School Online Application
• Current curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
• Three (3) professional recommendations
• Personal statement of research goals and interests – Describes what you want to study, who you want to study with, and why you want to study at the Sinclair School of Nursing
• Writing sample (if available; Post-DNP applicants need to include an artifact of their DNP scholarly project)
• Registered Nurse (RN) license – Does not apply to non-nurse PhD applicants; international nursing applicants should submit license from their country
• Satisfactory TOEFL or IELTS scores within last 2 years (non-native English speaking applicants only)

Note: As of April 2016, a graduate level statistics course is no longer required as a prerequisite for the PhD program.

Holistic Review

The MU SSON PhD program uses a comprehensive, holistic review process. In a holistic review process, we consider the applicant as a whole individual, not merely select parts, such as GPA or GRE test scores. In doing so, we evaluate applicants based on who will contribute to the MU SSON’s academic community in meaningful ways.

Holistic review takes into account factors such as a research mentor match, academic and professional goals, student’s strength of undergraduate and graduate (if applicable) coursework, grade trends, special circumstances, and ability to enhance the diversity of the program.  By evaluating the applicant from a holistic perspective, we take the time to get to know applicants as people, not as numbers.

The MU Sinclair School of Nursing’s Doctor in Nursing Practice (DNP) program is distance mediated beginning in the Summer Semester. Students are expected to spend one week on campus, typically in the first week of June, the summer they start the program. All clinical courses will have required on campus days that range from one to four days during the semester.

Admission Criteria for the Doctor of Nursing Practice

• Submission of all official transcripts documenting a baccalaureate or master degree in Nursing from a program accredited by a national organization responsible for nursing accreditation (i.e. National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE))
• A grade point average (GPA) of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale based on the last 60 hours of undergraduate nursing course work for applicants with less than a master’s degree.
• A cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale for applicants with a master’s degree in nursing.
• Successful completion of a graduate level statistic course (eg. STAT 7020, ECP 7170) within 5 years.
• Submission of copies of current, unencumbered Registered Nurse license(s).
• Submission of copies of all advanced practice nursing certification and/or credentialing/recognition documents for applicants with a master’s degree.
• Submission of three (3) professional recommendations supporting the applicant’s potential success in the DNP program.
• Submission of curriculum vitae using the official MU Sinclair School of Nursing format (http://nursing.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/cv-guidelines.pdf).
• Submission of a three- to five-page essay describing your professional goals and how participation in the DNP program will enhance these goals.
• Successful interview.
• Documentation of English-language proficiency (of non-native English speaking applicants), demonstrated through a satisfactory Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score within the last two years.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

• The DNP program application process begins in the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS). Please contact the DNP program directly for application process.

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the DNP program)
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

Officially approved as:  

Stand Alone: Yes

Total Credit Hours:  15

Certificate description: The graduate certificate in Participatory Health Research confirms the completion of graduate level training in the rationale, theoretical underpinnings, methods, and applications of participatory approaches for health and health systems. This methodology strives to develop equitable partnerships among host communities, stakeholders, policy makers, health care providers and researchers in an effort to work together to develop strategies and interventions that will enhance the health of a population.

Application Process

• Current Mizzou Graduate Students: Complete the Change of Program Form and submit the form directly to the Participatory Health Research program.
• New/Returning Mizzou Graduate Students: Students new to Mizzou or former Mizzou graduate students returning after a semester break or longer, should complete the Graduate Application for Admission. Please include the application materials listed below in your online application.

Required Application Materials

• Unofficial transcript
• Two letters of recommendation
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Essay
• Nursing supplemental information (built into the Graduate School application)
• Writing sample (optional)
• A copy of license for licensed health care professionals only (e.g. R.N., M.D.)

Certificate web site:
http://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/certificate-participatory-health-research/

The minor is open to graduate students in the Sinclair School of Nursing as well as nurses nurses interested in teaching in a school of nursing who are graduate students in other departments on campus (e.g. Health Education, Public Health, Health Management and Informatics, Human Development and Family Studies, etc.). Graduate nursing students who already have a MS in Nursing Education or a Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education will not be eligible for a graduate minor in nursing education as their prior graduate coursework is substantively identical to the required courses.

The graduate minor in nursing education consists of a minimum of 10 graduate credit hours of nursing education coursework.

All students are required to take two core courses for graduate minor:

1. N8854 Teaching Strategies in Nursing (3 cr)
2. N8864 Curriculum Development in Nursing (3 cr).

After completion of the two core courses, students will complete a faculty supervised 4 credit teaching nursing practicum. Students may select from two practicum courses which best meet their learning needs and professional goals:

• N8950 Teaching Nursing Practicum (4 cr) or N8954 Distance-Mediated Teaching Nursing Practicum (4 cr).

These aforementioned courses also can be supplemented by problems courses.

Admission Criteria

The goal of the Master’s of Science in Care Management is to educate health care professionals to improve health outcomes, enhance care quality, and reduce health care costs.  Graduates will provide care management to diverse people across the life span using principles and approaches that include facilitating delivery of health care to individuals/family, engagement of individuals/family in care plan design, and implementation resulting in high quality, high value, cost effective care using a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Requirements

To be considered for admission to the Sinclair School of Nursing’s MS Care Management program, students must meet the following requirements:

• Health related baccalaureate degree from an accredited university.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 credit hours of the baccalaureate program.
• Evidence of any unencumbered current licensure in a health related occupation (if applicable).
• Submission of a curriculum vitae or resume.
• A one page personal statement describing academic and professional goals.
• Personal interview upon request.

International Student Admission for MS Care Management

• All international admissions are initially the responsibility of the MU Coordinator of International Student Programs. The Student Admissions and Progression Committee of the School of Nursing may not act upon any international application for admission until the applicant has been cleared through the office.
• Non-native English speaking applicants need documentation of English-language proficiency, demonstrated through a satisfactory Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score within the last two years.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Care Management Program

• The Care Management program application process begins in the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS). Please contact the Care Management program directly for application process.

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the Care Management program)
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

Officially approved as:   

Stand Alone: Yes

Total Credit Hours:  21.5

Certificate Description: The Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Graduate Certificate offered through Sinclair School of Nursing will allow students with an MSN from an accredited program to obtain the necessary coursework and skills to be eligible to sit for national certification as an Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. The AGCNS Certificate program will allow for currently enrolled students or APRNs trained in another area of specialty (i.e. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner, and others) to obtain the course work required to be eligible for certification through the national certifying organizations in order to increase their current scope of practice.

Certificate Web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/

Officially approved as:   

Stand Alone: Yes

Total Credit Hours:  15

Certificate Description: The online Graduate Certificate in Care Management offered through the Sinclair School of Nursing will allow students pursuing a graduate degree in nursing or health related field at MU or post-graduate prepared individuals from a health related field to obtain the necessary coursework and skills in care management. Certificate courses build upon the students’ unique professional perspectives and foundational knowledge of theory applications of care coordination, research principles, interdisciplinary teamwork, an understanding of basic physiology and pharmacology, and care management principles.

Certificate Web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/

Officially approved as:   

Stand Alone: Yes

Total Credit Hours:  18.5

Certificate Description: The Family Nurse Practitioner Post Graduate Certificate offered through Sinclair School of Nursing will allow students with an MSN from an accredited program to obtain the necessary coursework and skills to be eligible to sit for national certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The FNP Certificate program will allow for currently enrolled students or APRNs trained in another area of specialty (i.e. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner, and others) to obtain the course work required to be eligible for certification through the national certifying organizations in order to increase their current scope of practice.

Certificate Web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/

Officially approved as:   

Stand Alone: Yes

Total Credit Hours:  21.5

Certificate Description: The Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist Graduate Certificate offered through Sinclair School of Nursing will allow students with an MSN from an accredited program to obtain the necessary coursework and skills to be eligible to sit for national certification as a Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. The Pediatric CNS Certificate program will allow for currently enrolled students or APRNs trained in another area of specialty (i.e. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Adult Nurse Practitioner, and others) to obtain the course work required to be eligible for certification through the national certifying organizations in order to increase their current scope of practice.

Certificate Web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/

Officially approved as:   

Stand Alone: Yes

Total Credit Hours:  18.5

Certificate Description: The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certificate will extend the opportunity for graduate students who are trained as nurse practitioners in another area of specialty (i.e. Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist) to obtain the necessary education and training to become certified as a PMHNP to augment/extend their current scope of practice or to pursue a career in a much needed specialty. This proposed certificate would be an option for already enrolled MU graduate students, or as a stand-alone certificate for post-graduate (masters or doctoral) individuals in nursing. The certification would include a total of 18.5 credit hours and 510 clinical hours.

Certificate Web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/

The program offers a PhD in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology with emphasis in Nutrition.

*This program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension.

Admission Criteria

Application deadline for Fall admission: December 30

• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in science and math classes
• Prerequisites: Entering students are expected to have undergraduate training (lecture and laboratory courses) in general and organic chemistry and biology, a two-semester course in biochemistry and an upper-level human nutrition course.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Nutritional Sciences Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• Statement of Purpose: Upload a Statement of Purpose, indicating your academic/research interests and career goals to the “Statement of Purpose” section of your online application.
• Resume or Vita: Upload a current Resume or Vita to the “Resume/CV” section of your online application.
• Recommendations: Enter the required information for at least three recommenders in the “Recommendations” section of your online application. The recommenders will receive an email with instructions for completing and submitting your recommendation. Please ensure that the recommenders are aware of the December 30 application deadline.
• Statement of Goals Video: Upload a Statement of Goals Video to the “Portfolio” section of your online application. It should be a one minute video why you want to be in graduate school and your goals with the program.
• TOEFL Scores (international applicants only)

The program offers a Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology with emphasis in Nutritional Sciences.

Admission Criteria

Application deadline for Fall admission: December 30

• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in science and math classes
• Prerequisites: Entering students are expected to have undergraduate training (lecture and laboratory courses) in general and organic chemistry and biology, a two-semester course in biochemistry and an upper-level human nutrition course.

Minimum Language Requirements

Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Nutritional Sciences Program

All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School online application system.

• Statement of Purpose: Upload a Statement of Purpose, indicating your academic/research interests and career goals to the “Statement of Purpose” section of your online application.
• Resume or Vita: Upload a current Resume or Vita to the “Resume/CV” section of your online application.
• Recommendations: Enter the required information for at least three recommenders in the “Recommendations” section of your online application. The recommenders will receive an email with instructions for completing and submitting your recommendation. Please ensure that the recommenders are aware of the December 30 application deadline.
• Statement of Goals Video: Upload a Statement of Goals Video to the “Portfolio” section of your online application. It should be a one minute video why you want to be in graduate school and your goals with the program.
• TOEFL Scores (international applicants only)

Officially approved as:     

Stand Alone:  Yes  

Total Credit Hours:  12

Certificate description: The graduate certificate in nonprofit management provides students with the managerial, fiduciary, and analytical tools necessary for leadership of nonprofit entities. The goal is to develop and hone skills that can be used to achieve organizational missions uniquely aimed at serving the interests of the community.

Certificate web site:
https://truman.missouri.edu/future-students/graduate-certificate-description