The Graduate Affairs Council sets the minimum standards for full admission to the Graduate Studies Program. Students are enrolled as either degree-seeking or non-degree-seeking/certification-only. All degree-seeking students may enroll in graduate courses under one of the following classifications: full admission, provisional admission, or probationary admission. Special student admission includes visiting students and individuals who are taking classes for professional development and are not seeking to complete a degree or graduate certification.
Policy for Applicants with Criminal Backgrounds
Applicants and students must disclose criminal charges, convictions and adjudications, as well as pending criminal charges, on their Applications for Admission. Those who disclose this information must provide a written narrative that should include the approximate date of each incident, explain the circumstances, and reflect on what the applicant or student has learned from the experience, and why the applicant should be admitted to the University. The student or applicant should provide this narrative directly to the Chairman of the Admissions Review Committee.
Applicants and students disclosing criminal convictions and adjudications or pending criminal charges on their applications for admission will be subject to a criminal background check conducted by the University’s Public Safety department. The Admissions Review Committee will review all relevant information regarding the application and make an admissions decision. The University will notify the applicant or student of the admissions decision. The Committee’s decision is final.
Failure to provide accurate and complete information during the admissions process will subject the applicant or student to discipline and sanctions, up to, and potentially including, immediate dismissal from the University. The University will not provide tuition or fee refunds to students who do not, in the University’s sole judgment, accurately and completely disclose the required information during the admissions process.
Applicants and students should also be aware that those who are pursuing degrees leading to application for professional licensure or certification, and/or who will be participating in clinical placements, internships, or practica through their University program may be required to submit to a criminal background check, finger printing, or drug screening by their host facility or accrediting body. In such situations, students may be responsible for obtaining and paying for the background check or other screening process and for delivering required documentation to the facility. It will be up to the host facility to determine whether a student will be allowed to work at that facility. Students should further be aware that a criminal record may jeopardize licensure by the State certification body. Students may consult the certification body corresponding to their intended occupation for more details. Successful completion of a program of study at the University does not guarantee licensure, certification, or employment.
Master’s Degrees
Full Admission
Students accepted for full admission must meet the following minimum requirements:
- The applicant must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with an overall grade point average of 2.750 on a 4.000 scale. Applicants to the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) must have an overall grade point average of a 3.000 on a 4.000 scale and hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
- Students applying for the Master of Science in Sport Management or Master of Science in Fitness Management who do not meet minimum grade point average requirements have the option of taking the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT).
- Students seeking the Master of Educational Administration degree must submit evidence of intitial certification to teach.
- Students seeking a Master of Educational Administration degree must submit evidence of three years of teaching experience in either elementary or secondary education prior to being recommended for certification as a school principal.
- Students seeking a Master of Science in Criminal Justice may be required to take CRJS 133 Introduction to Criminal Justice and CRPO 453 Constitutional Law I prior to beginning the program though there are no prerequisite Criminal Justice courses for admission to the program.
Provisional Admission
Students may be accepted provisionally if a transcript or a letter of recommendation is the only item missing. That transcript CANNOT be the transcript that lists the undergraduate degree for master’s candidates or the transcript that lists the master’s degree for specialist candidates. All other documentation must be submitted. All transcripts and letters of recommendation must be submitted before students will be permitted to enroll for subsequent semesters.
Probationary Admission
Students may be accepted on a probationary basis if they meet the following requirements:
- Students with a grade point average between 2.500 and 2.749 (or a 2.75 to 2.99 for MSN applicants) who meet all other admission requirements may be admitted on a probationary basis. Approval from the Graduate Affairs Committee and the Associate Vice President for Graduate Affairs is required before probationary admission status will be granted. For students transferring with twelve (12) or more hours of graduate credit, admittance will be based solely on the graduate GPA instead of the undergraduate GPA. This stipulation is conditional upon Classroom Teaching candidates seeking initial certification having at least a combined graduate/undergraduate 2.500 GPA (DESE will require a minimum cum GPA of 2.750 for certification).
- If probationary student status is granted, the student must maintain a 3.0 grade point average for the first twelve (12) hours of graduate work at Missouri Baptist University to be considered for full admission status.
Master of Science in Sport Management and Master of Science in Fitness Management Probationary Admission
Students applying for the Master of Science in Sport Management or Master of Science in Fitness Management degrees who do not meet minimum grade point average (GPA) requirements may be considered for probationary admission based on the following:
- A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale in the last sixty (60) units attempted.
- A minimum GRE score of 750 (verbal plus quantitative).
- A minimum GMAT score of 500 (verbal plus quantitative).
- A minimum GRE formula score of 1700 (GPA x GRE).
- A minimum GMAT formula score of 1500 (GPA[200+GMAT]).
Non-Degree-Seeking Admission
Students may enroll in graduate courses as non-degree-seeking students if they are taking courses for professional development or personal interest only. Credit earned in these courses will not result in the awarding of a graduate degree, however, some credit may be applied as degree credit if the student chooses to pursue a master’s degree later. If a student decides to pursue a master’s degree, all materials for full admission as a degree-seeking student must be submitted. Non-degree-seeking students are not eligible for Federal Financial Aid.
Special Student Admission
Students may enroll in select graduate courses without submitting a regular application or meeting other admissions requirements if they are taking courses for professional development only. These students must submit a Special Student Application/Registration form at the time of enrollment for the specific course.
Students Seeking Graduate Certification
Students with a baccalaureate degree who have not received teacher certification may take graduate courses to meet teacher certification requirements. Students in this category should see the bulletin section on Graduate Certification Only and speak with the Office of Graduate Admissions for further guidance on obtaining Missouri Teacher Certification.
Students Seeking Add-On Certification
Students with a baccalaureate degree who hold teaching certification may receive add-on certification in the areas of Special Reading and Driver Education.
Students who hold a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, Educational Psychology, Guidance and Counseling, or Education and who have certification as a classroom teacher or a school counselor may seek add-on certification as a School Psychological Examiner.
Students will be classified as degree-seeking or non-degree-seeking/certification-only, but must be pursuing a degree or approved certificate to receive financial aid. Please speak with the Office of Graduate Admissions for more information on applicable programs.
Readmission after an Extended Absence
Students returning to the University after an extended absence (over one year) must submit a new application. Students are not required to pay an additional application fee when readmitting. The student’s enrollment status will be readmitted. If the student has an absence exceeding three years, the student must reapply to the Graduate Studies Program, submitting all required documentation apart from previously received transcripts. Documentation of any coursework taken during the interim must be submitted by having an official transcript mailed directly from the regionally or nationally accredited college, university, or other post-secondary institution where the coursework was completed. Students readmitting will be under the degree requirements in effect at the time of re-admittance.
Graduate Admissions Failure Policy
Graduate students who are dismissed from an academic program due to unacceptable grades will not be allowed to immediately enroll in another graduate program. Students must wait one year after dismissal before applying to another graduate program. When reapplying, the student will provide in writing evidence that warrants admission into a new graduate program. Graduate students are limited to one final appeal after the one year waiting period. Two total appeals regardless of programs will be allowed.
Application Procedures - Master’s Degrees
Application Procedures – Degree-Seeking Students
- Submit a completed Graduate Application for Admission. The application is available online at http://www.mobap.edu/graduate.
- Complete the Business Office Master Promissory Note (BOMPN) – this note guarantees that the student will be responsible for any charges incurred while enrolled at Missouri Baptist University. This is not a payment plan and there is no charge associated with the document.
- Applicants will be required to submit a professional statement essay that addresses the following: Your career and/or educational background, why you want to continue your education, and what you hope to accomplish with this degree. This essay should be approximately 2 pages double-spaced. Please note, students pursing a Master of Arts degree in School Counseling (Traditional or Licensure Track) or Clinical Mental Health Counseling must follow the prompt outlined below.
- Write and submit and original, double-spaced 1000-word essay that will be reviewed for content and will be used to assess your written communication skills. Please answer the following prompts in your writing.
As a CACREP aligned program, MBU strives to provide the community with leaders who are ethical, socially just, and culturally competent. After reflecting on this vision statement please answer:
- What previous experiences (personal, professional, academic, and/or any leadership roles) have led you to pursue the M.A. degree in Counseling at MBU?
- What are your professional goals, and how do you see your goals aligning with the vision of the MBU counseling program described above? How do you plan on carrying these professional goals forward to be a leader in your community and profession?
- The Counseling Program is both academically and emotionally rigorous. What challenges do you foresee encountering during your studies? What forms of support will you use to meet those challenges?
- Applicants pursuing a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry must include a statement of faith and a spiritual autobiography.
- Applicants pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing, Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing or Traditional), Master of Arts in School Counseling (Traditional or Licensure Track) or a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling must must submit a resume or curriculum vitae.
- Submit a written letter of recommendation from an employer or a professional.
- Applicants pursuing a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry must also submit a letter of recommendation from a pastor.
- Applicants pursuing a Master of Science in Corporate Security Leadership must submit one letter of recommendation from an employer or professional in their chosen field.
- Applicants pursuing a Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing or Traditional), a Master of Arts in School Counseling or a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling must submit three letters of recommendation.
- Submit official transcripts mailed directly from each regionally or nationally accredited college, university, or other post-secondary institution attended. This includes original transcripts for any course accepted as transfer credit on another institution’s transcript. Only transcripts mailed directly to Missouri Baptist University Graduate Admissions will be accepted as official copies. MBU also accepts electronic transcripts from the following services: Parchment, E-Script, and National Clearing House. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to graduateadmissions@mobap.edu. Hand carried transcripts, faxed transcripts, and transcripts “Issued to Student” will not be accepted. In addition, if the post-secondary institutions attended were outside of the United States, the student must have transcripts and/or degrees evaluated by an approved Transcripts/Credential Evaluation Service. Please see the Admission Procedures for International Students section of the bulletin for additional information. Students graduating from Missouri Baptist University’s master’s degree or specialist programs need not resubmit transcripts that are already on file.
- Students applying for the Master of Educational Administration degree must also provide evidence of state teacher certification.
- Students who desire full acceptance into the Counselor Education program or the Social Work program are required to attend an oral interview with department faculty once all materials are received and reviewed. This interview must take place either prior to or during the student’s first full semester of classwork.
- Students applying for the Master of Science in Nursing must also provide evidence of an unencumbered RN license.
- Every applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency or meet criteria for a waiver of English Proficiency Requirements. Please see the Admission Procedures for International Students section for additional information.
- All applicants who are Permanent United States Residents must submit a copy of the front and back of their Permanent Residence card.
NOTE: All required application materials must be submitted before:
- A student can be fullly admitted into the University.
- Registrations can be authorized from unofficial to official status.
- Financial aid can be processed or applied.
- Registration for a subsequent term will be permitted.
Application Procedures – Non-Degree-Seeking Students
- Submit a completed Graduate Application for Admission. The application is available online at http://www.mobap.edu/graduate.
- Complete the Business Office Master Promissory Note (BOMPN) – this note guarantees that the student will be responsible for any charges incurred while enrolled at Missouri Baptist University. This is not a payment plan and there is no charge associated with the document.
- Submit a photocopy of your Missouri Teaching Certificate or an official transcript showing an earned bachelor’s degree (or master’s degree, if applicable).
Application Procedures - Certificate Programs
- Submit a completed Graduate Application for Admission. The application is available online at http://www.mobap.edu/graduate.
- Complete the Business Office Master Promissory Note (BOMPN) – this note guarantees that the student will be responsible for any charges incurred while enrolled at Missouri Baptist University. This is not a payment plan and there is no charge associated with the document.
- Submit official transcripts mailed directly from each regionally or nationally accredited college, university, or other post-secondary institution attended. This includes original transcripts for any course accepted as transfer credit on another institution’s transcript. Only transcripts mailed directly to Missouri Baptist University Graduate Admissions will be accepted as official copies. MBU also accepts electronic transcripts from the following services: Parchment, E-Script, and National Clearing House. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to graduateadmissions@mobap.edu. Hand carried transcripts, faxed transcripts, and transcripts “Issued to Student” will not be accepted. In addition, if the post-secondary institutions attended were outside of the United States, the student must have transcripts and/or degrees evaluated by an approved Transcripts/Credential Evaluation Service. Please see the Admission Procedures for International Students section of the bulletin for additional information. Students graduating from Missouri Baptist University’s master’s degree or specialist programs need not resubmit transcripts that are already on file.
- Play Therapy Certificate students must submit evidence of liability insurance prior to admission.
Application Procedures – Visiting Students
- Submit a completed Graduate Application for Admission, along with a $35.00 non-refundable application fee made payable to Missouri Baptist University to: Graduate Admissions Office, Missouri Baptist University, One College Park Drive, St. Louis Missouri 63141. Application is also available online at http://www.mobap.edu/graduate (fee waived for online applications).
- Complete the Business Office Master Promissory Note: this note guarantees that the student will be responsible for any charges incurred while enrolled at Missouri Baptist University. This is not a payment plan and there is no charge associated with the document.
NOTE: All required application materials must be submitted before:
- A student can be fully admitted into the University.
- Registrations can be authorized from unofficial to official status.
- Financial aid can be processed or applied.
- Registration for a subsequent term will be permitted.
Students must submit the same documentation required of degree-seeking students if they wish to apply for federal financial aid.
Students have one semester in which to complete their graduate file. Registration for subsequent semesters will be blocked until file is complete.
Transfer Policies - Master’s Degrees
Transfer Students/Transfer Credit
Transfer credits must have been earned within the seven (7) years prior to entry into the Graduate Studies Program. Transfer credits must be approved by the Graduate Advisor and the Division Chair/Dean or Program Director and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P. Students may not take courses from other programs while enrolled at Missouri Baptist without written approval from the Associate Vice President for Graduate Affairs.
Students entering the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM) degree program may transfer up to nine (9) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed nine (9) hours. These nine (9) hours may include up to a maximum of nine (9) credit hours as Credit for Prior Learning. Students must complete at least twenty-seven (27) hours of credit plus CSCM 573 Project/Internship at Missouri Baptist University. Coursework completed at colleges/universities or other postsecondary institutions which are not regionally accredited, but which are accredited by a body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) may be evaluated on an individual basis in keeping with whether or not the course would be appropriate to apply toward a master’s program at Missouri Baptist University.
Students entering the Master of Arts degree in School Counseling (Traditional or Licensure Track) and/or Clinical Mental Health Counseling may transfer up to nine (9) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed nine (9) hours. All transfer credits must be approved by the Core Counselor Education faculty.
Students entering the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree program may transfer up to nine (9) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed nine (9) hours.
Students entering the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6) hours. Students must complete at least thirty (30) hours of credit, including BUSN 583 Capstone Project, at Missouri Baptist University.
Students entering the Master of Science in Corporate Security Leadership program may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6) hours. Students must complete at least thirty (30) hours of credit, including MCSL 583 Security Leadership Capstone, at Missouri Baptist University. Students must complete the capstone class online.
Students entering the Master of Science in Criminal Justice program may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6) hours. Students must complete at least thirty (30) hours of credit, including CRJS 583 Capstone Project, at Missouri Baptist University. Students must complete the capstone class online.
Students entering the Master of Educational Administration (MEA) may transfer up to nine (9) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university; however, students must complete a minimum of 24 credits toward the MEA degree at MBU. Students transferring in nine graduate credits will need to complete an approved elective.
Students entering the Master of Educational Technology (MET) or Master of Science in Education (MSE) degree programs may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6) hours.
Students entering the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6) hours.
Students entering the Master of Science in Sport Management (MSSM) or Master of Science in Fitness Management (MSFM) degree programs may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6) hours. SMGT 576 Internship in Sport Management serves as the culminating activity for graduate students in the Sport Management degree program. The course must be completed through Missouri Baptist University. No transfer credits will be accepted into the Graduate Certificate programs in Exercise Science, Fitness Management, Sport Management, or Sport Marketing.
Students entering the Master of Social Work (Traditional) may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6) hours.
The University only recognizes institutions accredited by the current edition of Accredited Institutions of Postsecondary Education published by the CHEA and the American Council on Education.
Educational Specialist Degree (Ed.S.)
Full Admission
Students accepted for full admission must meet the following minimum requirements:
- The applicant must have a master’s degree in Education (or related degree) or Educational Administration from an accredited college or university with an overall grade point average of 3.000 on a 4.000 scale.A Master of Educational Administration degree from an accredited college or university is required for pursuit of the Superintendent concentration.
- Applicants pursuing the Superintendent concentration must submit evidence of active principal certification.
- Applicants without teacher certification may pursue the Curriculum and Instruction concentration only. Special approval will be required.
Provisional Admission
Students may be accepted provisionally if a transcript is the only item missing. That transcript CANNOT be the transcript that lists the master’s degree for specialist candidates. All other documentation must be submitted. All transcripts must be submitted before students will be permitted to enroll for subsequent semesters.
Probationary Admission
Students may be accepted on a probationary basis if they meet the following requirements:
- Students with a grade point average between 2.750 and 2.999 who meet all other admission requirements may be admitted on a probationary basis. Approval from the Graduate Affairs Committee and the Associate Vice President for Graduate Affairs is required before probationary admission status will be granted.
- If probationary student status is granted, the student must maintain a 3.0 grade point average for the first twelve (12) hours of graduate work at Missouri Baptist University to be considered for full admission status.
Readmission after an Extended Absence
Students returning to the University after an extended absence (over one year) must submit a new application. Students are not required to pay an additional application fee when readmitting. If the student has an absence exceeding three years, the student must reapply to the Graduate Studies Program, submitting all required documentation apart from previously received transcripts. Documentation of any coursework taken during the interim must be submitted by having an official transcript mailed directly from the regionally or nationally accredited college, university, or other post-secondary institution where the coursework was completed. Students readmitting will be under the degree requirements in effect at the time of re-admittance.
Graduate Admissions Failure Policy
Graduate students who are dismissed from an academic program due to unacceptable grades will not be allowed to immediately enroll in another graduate program. Students must wait one year after dismissal before applying to another graduate program. When reapplying, the student will provide in writing evidence that warrants admission into a new graduate program.
Application Procedures - Specialist
Application Procedures – Degree-Seeking Students
- Submit a completed Graduate Application for Admission. The application is available online at http://www.mobap.edu/graduate.
- Complete the Business Office Master Promissory Note (BOMPN) – this note guarantees that the student will be responsible for any charges incurred while enrolled at Missouri Baptist University. This is not a payment plan and there is no charge associated with the document.
- Submit a written letter of recommendation from an employer or a professional.
- Submit a professional statement essay that addresses the following: Your career and/or educational background, why you want to continue your education, and what you hope to accomplish with this degree. This essay should be approximately 2 pages double-spaced.
- Submit official transcripts mailed directly from each regionally or nationally accredited college, university, or other post-secondary institution attended. This includes original transcripts for any course accepted as transfer credit on another institution’s transcript. Only transcripts mailed directly to Missouri Baptist University Graduate Admissions will be accepted as official copies. MBU also accepts electronic transcripts from the following services: Parchment, E-Script, and National Clearing House. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to graduateadmissions@mobap.edu. Hand carried transcripts, faxed transcripts, and transcripts “Issued to Student” will not be accepted. In addition, if the post-secondary institutions attended were outside of the United States, the student must have transcripts and/or degrees evaluated by an approved Transcripts/Credential Evaluation Service. Please see the Admission Procedures for International Students section of the bulletin for additional information. Students graduating from Missouri Baptist University’s masters’ or specialist programs do not need to resubmit transcripts that are already on file.
- Every applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency or meet criteria for a waiver of English Proficiency Requirements. Please see the Admission Procedures for International Students section for additional information.
- All applicants who are Permanent United States Residents must submit a copy of the front and back of their Permanent Residence card.
Note: All required application materials must be submitted before:
- A student can be fully admitted into the University.
- Registrations can be authorized from unofficial to official status.
- Financial aid can be processed or applied.
- Registration for a subsequent term will be permitted.
Students must submit the same documentation required of degree-seeking students if they wish to apply for federal financial aid.
Students have one semester in which to complete their graduate file. Registration for subsequent semesters will be blocked until file is complete.
Transfer Policies - Specialist
Transfer Students/Transfer Credit
Transfer credits must have been earned within the seven (7) years prior to entry into the Graduate Studies Program. Transfer credits must be approved by the Graduate Advisor and the Dean of Education or Program Director and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P. Students may not take courses from other graduate programs while enrolled at Missouri Baptist without written approval from the Associate Vice President for Graduate Affairs.
Students entering the Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree program may transfer up to six (6) specialist-level credits into the Missouri Baptist University Graduate Studies Program from another regionally accredited college or university. The total hours transferred to Missouri Baptist, including courses from other programs while enrolled, may not exceed six (6).
Doctor of Education Degree (Ed.D.)
Leadership in Teaching and Learning
Full Admission
Students accepted for full admission must meet the following minimum requirements:
- The applicant must have an educational specialist degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university with an overall grade point average of 3.250 on a 4.000 scale in educational specialist coursework, and an overall 3.25 GPA in graduate coursework. A 3.0 GPA must be maintained throughout the course of study.
- Applicants must be reviewed and approved by the Doctoral Applicant Selection Committee.
- GRED 703 Statistics and Methods I , or an equivalent course completed within the last seven years. (Please contact Graduate Admissions, graduateadmissions@mobap.edu, with an unofficial transcript to confirm equivalencies for this course.)
Applications will remain on file for one (1) year.
Readmission after an Extended Absence
Students returning to the University after an extended absence (over one year) must submit a new application and a letter of appeal to the Doctoral Oversight Committee. Students are not required to pay an additional application fee when readmitting. If the student has an absence exceeding three years, the student must reapply to the Doctor of Education Program, submitting all required documentation apart from previously received transcripts. Documentation of any coursework taken during the interim must be submitted by having an official transcript mailed directly from the regionally or nationally accredited college, university, or other postsecondary institution where the coursework was completed. Per acceptance from the Doctoral Oversight Committee, students readmitting will be under the degree requirements in effect at the time of readmittance.
Graduate Admissions Failure Policy
Graduate students who are dismissed from an academic program due to unacceptable grades will not be allowed to immediately enroll in another graduate program. Students must wait one year after dismissal before applying to another graduate program. When reapplying, the student will provide in writing evidence that warrants admission into a new graduate program.
Application Procedures - Doctorate
Application Procedures – Degree-Seeking Students
A student desiring admission to the Doctor of Education degree program at Missouri Baptist University must complete the following steps:
- Submit a completed Doctoral Application for Admission. The application is available online at http://www.mobap.edu/doctorate.
- Submit official transcripts mailed directly from each regionally or nationally accredited college, university, or other post-secondary institution attended. This includes original transcripts for any course accepted as transfer credit on another institution’s transcript. Only transcripts mailed directly to Missouri Baptist University Graduate Admissions will be accepted as official copies. MBU also accepts electronic transcripts from the following services: Parchment, E-Script, and National Clearing House. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to graduateadmissions@mobap.edu. Hand carried transcripts, faxed transcripts, and transcripts “Issued to Student” will not be accepted. In addition, if the post-secondary institutions attended were outside of the United States, the student must have transcripts and/or degrees evaluated by an approved Transcripts/Credential Evaluation Service. Please see the Admission Procedures for International Students section of the bulletin for additional information. Students graduating from Missouri Baptist University’s masters’ or specialist programs do not need to resubmit transcripts that are already on file.
- Submit three academic references from individuals who can comment knowledgeably on the applicant’s academic ability, potential to do scholarly work and succeed in the doctoral program. One letter should be from a current supervisor. Applicants waive the right to disclosure of letters.
- Submit a professional vita.
- Submit a professional statement essay that addresses the following: Your career and/or educational background, why you want to continue your education, and what you hope to accomplish with this degree. This essay should be approximately 2 pages double-spaced.
- Submit a research paper completed in a graduate level course as a writing sample. This will be used to determine the applicant’s ability to communicate effectively and must meet a high standard of professional writing and critical thinking.
- Complete an on-site writing assessment and interview with doctoral panel (which will be scheduled after all of the required items are submitted).
- Complete the Business Office Master Promissory Note (BOMPN) – this note guarantees that the student will be responsible for any charges incurred while enrolled at Missouri Baptist University. This is not a payment plan and there is no charge associated with the document.
- Every applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency or meet criteria for a waiver of English Proficiency Requirements. Please see the Admission Procedures for International Students section for additional information.
- All applicants who are Permanent United States Residents must submit a copy of the front and back of their Permanent Residence card.
Note: All required application materials must be submitted before:
- A student can be fully admitted into the University.
- Registrations can be authorized from unofficial to official status.
- Financial aid can be processed or applied.
- Registration for a subsequent term will be permitted.
NOTE: No candidate will be considered for admission into the Doctor of Education program until all materials for admission are submitted. Provisional acceptance is not offered to doctoral students; however, students who meet certain criteria will be considered on a case by case basis.
Transfer Policies - Doctorate
Transfer Students/Transfer Credit
Missouri Baptist University does not accept transfer credits from any other college or university for students entering the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership in Teaching and Learning degree program, with the exception of GRED 703 Statistics and Methods I .
Doctor of Education Degree (Ed.D.)
HIGHER EDUCATION LEADERSHIP
Full Admission
Students accepted for full admission must meet the following minimum requirements:
- A Master’s degree from an accredited university with a cumulative grade point average of 3.250 on a 4.000 scale in graduate coursework. A 3.0 GPA must be maintained throughout the course of study.
- Applicants must be reviewed and approved by the Doctoral Applicant Selection Committee.
Applications will remain on file for one (1) year.
Readmission after an Extended Absence
Students returning to the University after an extended absence (over one year) must submit a new application and a letter of appeal to the Doctoral Oversight Committee. Students are not required to pay an additional application fee when readmitting. If the student has an absence exceeding three years, the student must reapply to the Doctor of Education Program, submitting all required documentation apart from previously received transcripts. Documentation of any coursework taken during the interim must be submitted by having an official transcript mailed directly from the regionally or nationally accredited college, university, or other postsecondary institution where the coursework was completed. Per acceptance from the Doctoral Oversight Committee students readmitting will be under the degree requirements in effect at the time of readmittance.
Graduate Admissions Failure Policy
Graduate students who are dismissed from an academic program due to unacceptable grades will not be allowed to immediately enroll in another graduate program. Students must wait one year after dismissal before applying to another graduate program. When reapplying, the student will provide in writing evidence that warrants admission into a new graduate program.
Application Procedures - Doctorate
Application Procedures – Degree-Seeking Students
A student desiring admission to the Doctor of Education degree program at Missouri Baptist University must complete the following steps:
- Submit a completed Doctoral Application for Admission. The application is also available online at http://www.mobap.edu/doctorate.
- Submit official transcripts mailed directly from each regionally or nationally accredited college, university, or other post-secondary institution attended. This includes original transcripts for any course accepted as transfer credit on another institution’s transcript. Only transcripts mailed directly to Missouri Baptist University Graduate Admissions will be accepted as official copies. MBU also accepts electronic transcripts from the following services: Parchment, E-Script, and National Clearing House. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to graduateadmissions@mobap.edu. Hand carried transcripts, faxed transcripts, and transcripts “Issued to Student” will not be accepted. In addition, if the post-secondary institutions attended were outside of the United States, the student must have transcripts and/or degrees evaluated by an approved Transcripts/Credential Evaluation Service. Please see the Admission Procedures for International Students section of the bulletin for additional information. Students graduating from Missouri Baptist University’s masters’ or specialist programs do not need to resubmit transcripts that are already on file.
- Submit three academic references from individuals who can comment knowledgeably on the applicant’s academic ability, potential to do scholarly work and succeed in the doctoral program. Applicants waive the right to disclosure of letters.
- Submit a Curriculum Vita. Similar to a resume, but the CV should include a more detailed record of the applicant’s academic background, including teaching experience, degrees, research, awards, publications, presentation, and other professional achievements.
- Submit a professional statement essay that addresses the following: Your career and/or educational background, why you want to continue your education, and what you hope to accomplish with this degree. This essay should be approximately 2 pages double-spaced.
- Submit a writing sample. Throughout doctoral work the applicant will be expected to engage in scholarly discourse. The writing sample should show evidence of the applicant’s ability to meet this expectation. The ideal submission is a graduate level research paper.
- Complete an interview with doctoral panel (which will be scheduled after all of the required items are submitted).
- Complete the Business Office Master Promissory Note (BOMPN) – this note guarantees that the student will be responsible for any charges incurred while enrolled at Missouri Baptist University. This is not a payment plan and there is no charge associated with the document.
- Every applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency or meet criteria for a waiver of English Proficiency Requirements. Please see the Admission Procedures for International Students section for additional information.
- All applicants who are Permanent United States Residents must submit a copy of the front and back of their Permanent Residence card.
Note: All required application materials must be submitted before:
- A student can be fully admitted into the University.
- Registrations can be authorized from unofficial to official status.
- Financial aid can be processed or applied.
- Registration for a subsequent term will be permitted.
NOTE: No candidate will be considered for admission into the Doctor of Education program until all materials for admission are submitted. Provisional acceptance is not offered to doctoral students; however, students who meet certain criteria will be considered on a case by case basis.
Transfer Policies - Doctorate
Transfer Students/Transfer Credit
Missouri Baptist University will accept up to six (6) transfer credits from another regionally accredited college or university for students entering the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education Leadership degree program. Transfer credits must have been earned within the seven (7) years prior to entry into the Ed.D. Higher Education Leadership Program. Transfer credits must be approved by the Director of the Doctor of Education Program and must have grades of A, B, S, CR, or P.
Admission Procedures for Graduate International Students
International students seeking admission into a graduate program must meet all the requirements for admission before an I-20 will be issued. In addition to submitting all standard admissions documents, international students must also submit:
- Credential evaluation for all postsecondary coursework completed outside of the United States through World Education Services (WES), Education Credential Evaluators (ECE)*, or InCred. The completed evaluation must show the grade earned in each course as well as the U.S. degree and grade point average equivalencies.
- Proof of English proficiency through one of the exam options listed below. Official test results must be mailed directly to MBU from the testing agency. Photocopies will not be accepted.
| TOEFL |
Internet-based |
80 |
| TOEFL |
Computer-based |
213 |
| TOEFL |
Paper-based |
550 |
| IELTS |
|
6.5 |
| PTE Academic |
|
58 |
An English proficiency exam may be waived at the discretion of the Director of International Student Services if a student has completed at least 24 university-level credit hours at another U.S. college or university with the minimum 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.
- Signed and dated Financial Estimate Worksheet.
- Proof of financial ability per U.S. immigration guidelines.
- Photocopy of valid passport and proof of current immigration status if applicable.
- Upon admission, $200 admissions deposit for class registration and I-20 issuance.
International students are expected to maintain status by following all immigration regulations put forth by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and academic policies of Missouri Baptist University. For more information, visit the Student Development website or contact the office of International Student Services.
*Students seeking teaching certification should not use ECE as this agency is not approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Please refer to the Education section of the Bulletin for more information.
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