Program Goals

Each student collaborates with UMKC doctoral faculty to develop a tailored program of study that aligns with their professional goals and research interests, satisfying specific requirements within their discipline.

The program aims to equip students with:

• A solid foundation in their chosen field(s);
• Effective communication skills for research;
• Research proficiency in various approaches, methods, ethics, and tools; and
• The capability to investigate innovative research endeavors.

Mission and Philosophy

The Natural Sciences Ph.D. program reflects our commitment to providing tailored education that meets the specific professional goals and academic needs of each student. By refining our offerings, we aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen fields, whether in private or public sectors, academia, or impactful industries. Students in the program develop the ability to integrate principles and theories from across disciplines, using approaches, methods, ethical principles, and tools to pursue a research line of inquiry, with a primary focus on their primary discipline.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students graduating from this program will:

• Demonstrate a thorough degree of knowledge in the chosen discipline(s);
• Demonstrate an ability to use proper investigation techniques for the chosen discipline(s); and
• Effectively use oral and written forms of communication to convey their ideas.

Satisfactory Progress Policy for Natural Sciences Ph.D. students