Missouri Governor signs bills granting Missouri State University PhD authority

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe has signed legislation granting Missouri State University the authority to offer Doctor of Philosophy degree programs, ending the University of Missouri system’s exclusive authority to grant research doctorates.

The bills, signed into law Tuesday, take effect Aug. 28 and also allow Missouri State to offer certain professional degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology.

Missouri State President Richard B. Williams said the legislation gives the university flexibility to respond to workforce needs and expand academic opportunities for students.