Graduate Master's Degree Program of Study Policy

  • Policy Number: KC-ACA-3772
  • Date Issued: Prior to 2010
  • Date Revised: Spring 2019
  • Last Modified: Feb 5, 2024
  • Effective Date: AY 19-20
  • Approved By: Graduate Council, SGS Dean, Provost
  • Sponsor(s): Provost
  • Responsible Office(s): Academic Units, SGS, Records and Registration

Policy Statement

In consultation with the advisor or the supervisory committee, the master’s student plans a program of study in accordance with the minimum requirements outlined in the School of Graduate Studies Academic Regulations and the specific degree program requirements. Upon approval from the advisor and/or supervisory committee and unit graduate officer, programs of study should be approved by the dean of the School of Graduate Studies and filed with the registrar prior to the completion of 50% of applicable degree coursework.

Master’s degree programs of study must include a minimum of 30 graduate credits. No more than 40% of the credits on the program may be 300- and 400-level courses. At least 60% of the credits must be at the 5000 level or higher. Further, up to six credits may be allowed for Research and Thesis (5599). Other demonstrations of skills considered by the department or school as comparable to the thesis may be accepted. No more than 40% of the courses applied toward a master’s degree program of study may be in the categories of non-thesis research, directed studies, readings or research and thesis. Such courses normally fall in the 5500 to 5599 range, but the numerical designations may vary among academic units.

Plan of study forms are available from the program director or academic unit.

Program changes

Subsequent changes in the program of study must be approved by the student’s advisor and/or supervisory committee, the unit graduate officer, and dean of the School of Graduate Studies, and be submitted to the registrar. If cumulative changes in courses or degree requirements exceed four, a new program of study should be filed.

Reason for Policy

This policy was developed to support student academic success and to provide consistent, quality delivery of academic programs and services.

Who Should Read this Policy?

All faculty, academic advisors, School of Graduate Studies personnel, all program unit personnel and all graduate students.

Instructions, Procedures and Related Information

None

Contacts

UMKC School of Graduate Studies

Graduate Studies website

UMKC Registrar’s Office

Registrar's website

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

UMKC Office of the Provost

Provost website

Exclusions

None

History and Updates

None

Appendices

None