Awarding Posthumous Degrees
- Policy Number: KC-ACA-3108
- Date Issued: Fall 2010
- Date Revised: N/A
- Last Modified: Jul 27, 2023
- Effective Date: Fall 2010
- Approved By: Provost
- Sponsor(s): Provost
- Responsible Office(s): Registrar's Office
Policy Statement
The University may grant undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees posthumously. If an academic unit determines that a deceased student was academically eligible at the time and had completed sufficient coursework to earn a degree the unit may recommend the awarding of a posthumous degree.
Students who completed all degree requirements
The diploma for the degree that the student was pursuing will be prepared in the same manner as if the student had graduated. This diploma may be presented to the family of the deceased in a special ceremony, at Commencement or in whatever manner is deemed appropriate.*
Student did not yet complete degree requirements
If the student had not completed degree requirements but was making satisfactory progress at the time of death, a dean’s certificate honoring the student may be provided by the appropriate academic unit(s). These certificates may be designed and presented in a manner that is fitting to the circumstances.*
*In some instances, presentation of the degree or certificate to family members may be made at a remembrance ceremony.
Reason for Policy
This policy was developed to recognize the achievement of those students who were deceased and had completed enough of the degree program requirements to have their degree awarded.
Who Should Read this Policy?
Advisors, deans, directors, chairs and other department heads.
Instructions, Procedures and Related Information
Academic units who have determined that a deceased student has completed sufficient coursework to earn a posthumous degree should follow these steps:
- The academic unit should fill out a graduation exception petition form.
- Certificate of Death should be obtained through Public Records.
- The reason for requesting the exception and detailed justification from the department.
- Recommendation for action by the department or division chair.
- Recommendation for action by the appropriate dean or program director.
- Recommendation for action by the Provost’s Office.
The academic unit dean will review the petition and related documentation and render a decision, which will be communicated in writing to the Provost’s Office and the registrar. The degree or certificate will be awarded for the current term.
Definitions
Posthumous: following or occurring after one’s death
Eligible student: a deceased student who the academic unit designee recommends for a posthumous degree award.
Contacts
UMKC Registrar’s Office
Physical Location:
115 Administrative Center
5115 Oak Street
Kansas City, MO 64110
Mailing Address:
5100 Rockhill Road
Kansas City, MO 64110-2499
Phone: 816-235-1125
Fax: 816-235-5513
Email: registrar@umkc.edu