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.
- 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 two years of teaching experience in either elementary or secondary education prior to being recommended for certification as a school principal. Students seeking the MEA for certification as a Special Education Director K-12 must submit evidence of either two years of teaching experience in special education or two years experience in Student Services (ie: Speech Pathology, Counseling, School Psychologist, etc.) prior to being recommended for certification.
- Students seeking a Master of Arts degree in School Counseling and/or Clinical Mental Health Counseling must submit a current national fingerprint background check before they will be considered for admittance to the program. Results must be sent directly to the Director of Public Safety, Missouri Baptist University, One College Park Drive, St. Louis, MO 63141.
- 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.
- Students seeking a Master of Educational Administration degree with certification as Special Education Director K-12 must have a degree in Special Education or Student Services (ie: Speech Pathology, Counseling, etc.).
Provisional Admission
Students may be accepted provisionally if a transcript 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 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 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 in order 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 at a later time. If a student decides to pursue a master’s degree, all materials for full admission as a degreeseeking 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 Graduate Advisor for Classroom Teaching for advice and assistance in obtaining Missouri Teacher Certification.
Students Seeking the Master of Educational Administration with Special Education Director Certification
Students seeking Special Education Director K-12 certification must have certification in Special Education or Student Services (ie: Speech Pathology, Counseling, School Psychologist, etc.).
Students Seeking Add-On Certification
Students with a baccalaureate degree who hold teaching certification may receive add-on certification in the areas of: Library Media Specialist, Special Reading, Cross-Categorical Disabilities, Early Childhood, Early Childhood Special Education, 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 to receive financial aid.
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 with the exception of 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.
Application Procedures - Master’s Degrees
Application Procedures – Degree-Seeking 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 (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.
- Include an original statement of professional experiences and goals. (This is an essay of approximately two pages detailing what the student has done professionally up to this point, why the chosen professional field is being pursued, and the student’s professional plans for using the degree or certification when the course of study has been completed.)
- Applicants pursuing a Master of Arts degree in School Counseling and/or Clinical Mental Health Counseling must submit a resume or curriculum vitae and follow the Professional /statement Guidelines for Counselor Education Applicants:
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 should include a statement of faith and a spiritual autobiography.
- 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.
- 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 for Principal tracks or certification in special education or student services for the Special Education Director track.
- Students seeking a Master of Arts degree in School Counseling and/or Clinical Mental Health Counseling must submit a current national fingerprint background check before they will be considered for admittance to the program. Results must be sent directly to the Director of Public Safety, Missouri Baptist University, One College Park Drive, St. Louis, MO 63141. In the event that the background check shows any incidence that might prevent certification, the student must provide a letter of explanation to the Chairman of the Admissions Review Committee. The Admissions Reveiw Committee makes the final decision and advises Graduate Admissions.
- Students who desire full acceptance into the Counselor Education program are required to attend an oral interview with Counselor Education 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.
- 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.
Application Procedures – Non-Degree-Seeking 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 (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 – 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 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 unless they are purusing Special Education Director certification with the MEA.
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 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.
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 principal certification.
- Applicants without teacher certification may pursue the Curriculum and Instruction concentration only.
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 in order 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 with the exception of 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.
Application Procedures - Specialist
Application Procedures – Degree-Seeking 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 (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 statement of professional experiences and goals explaining why the applicant is pursuing the Ed.S. degree and how MBU’s program will help to achieve the applicant’s goals.
- 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 3.500 on a 4.000 scale in educational specialist coursework, and an overall 3.5 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 Candidate Selection Committee.
- GRED 543 Methods of Inquiry I, or an equivalent course completed within the last seven years. (Please contact the Ed.D. office, doctorate@mobap.edu, with an unofficial transcript to confirm equivalencies for this course.).
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 Doctor of Education 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 with the exception of 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 Doctor of Education Oversight Committee, students readmitting will be under the degree requirements in effect at the time of readmittance.
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, along with a $50.00 non-refundable application fee made payable to Missouri Baptist University to: Doctor of Education, Missouri Baptist University, One College Park Drive, St. Louis Missouri 63141. 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, and past performance as an educator in the field. One letter should be from a current supervisor, one from a professional colleague, and one from a faculty member who has interacted with the applicant in a recent specialist or master’s program of study. Applicants waive the right to disclosure of letters.
- Submit a professional vita.
- Submit a statement of professional experiences and goals (this is an essay of approximately two pages, typed and double-spaced, detailing what the applicant has done professionally up to this point, why he or she is pursuing this degree, what he or she hopes to accomplish in the doctoral program and in the future, and why he or she believes MBU’s doctoral program will help to accomplish the applicant’s goals).
- 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 the Methods of Inquiry I course.
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 3.25 GPA must be maintained throughout the course of study.
- Applicants must be reviewed and approved by the Doctoral Candidate Selection Committee.
- GRED 543 Methods of Inquiry I , or an equivalent course completed within the last seven years. (Please contact the Ed.D. office, doctorate@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 Doctor of Education 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 with the exception of 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 Doctor of Education Oversight Committee students readmitting will be under the degree requirements in effect at the time of readmittance.
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, along with a $50.00 non-refundable application fee made payable to Missouri Baptist University to: Doctor of Education, Missouri Baptist University, One College Park Drive, St. Louis Missouri 63141. 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, and past performance as an educator in the field. One letter should be from a current supervisor, one from a professional colleague, and one from a faculty member who has interacted with the applicant in a recent specialist or master’s program of study. 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. This essay should be approximately 500 words explaining what the applicant has done professionally and academically, why the applicant is pursuing a doctoral degree, and how MBU’s doctoral program will help the applicant accomplish future goals.
- 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. Other accepted forms are a grant proposal, a program review, or an executive summary report written in a professional capacity.
- 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 creditsd 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 the graduate program must meet all the requirements for full admission into the program. In addition, they will need to submit the following items to complete their admission process:
- A fully completed and signed Application Supplement for International Students.
- Evidence of English proficiency. This is determined by a minimum score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). MBU’s TOEFL code is 2258. Official, original test results must be sent directly to MBU. (Copies of test results cannot be used for admission.)
| TOEFL |
Internet-based |
80 |
| TOEFL |
Computer-based |
213 |
| TOEFL |
Paper-based |
550 |
| IELTS |
|
6.5 |
| PTE Academic |
|
58 |
Note: Students from the following countries who have completed high school or secondary school in an English-speaking school are not required to prove English Proficiency: Australia, Belize, Canada (except Quebec), the Fiji islands, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, New Zealand, Uganda, United Kingdom, Zimbabwe, and English speaking countries in the Caribbean upon approval by the Director of International Student Services.
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. ESL/ELS/EIEP classes, or any other remedial courses, even if taken in a university setting, will not be accepted toward the English Proficiency waiver. A waiver cannot be considered until official transcripts are submitted. Students who attended a high school in the U.S. may be waived from the English Proficiency requirement if they have completed at least two years in the U.S. and have a minimum of a 2.0 CGPA.
- Signed and dated Financial Estimate Worksheet.
- Proof of financial ability to support himself/herself while attending MBU. This proof must be in the form of:
- An original bank statement, savings account statement or bank letter in English no more than two months old showing the current balance at the time of print.
- A notarized affidavit of support from a sponsor defining the exact amount of available funds designated to the student, guaranteeing support of student at the specified amount throughout course of study at MBU, and the period of time for which support is pledged. This requirement is waived if the student is providing proof of his/her own personal funds in sufficient amounts to cover all expenses in the bank statement as outlined in (a); AND
- The complete name, physical address, phone number, and email address of the student’s financial sponsor.
- A Certified Translation of Transcripts & Credentials for any postsecondary coursework completed or degrees earned.
- An Official Credentials Evaluation. Students with degrees from a foreign country may be considered for admission to a graduate program only if the degree has been officially documented as equivalent to the appropriate U.S. degree. Please refer to the Minimum Requirements for each Degree Program. For example, those applying for a Master’s must have the equivalent of a U.S. baccalaureate degree. All records must be official college or university transcripts showing the individual subjects studied and the grades received in each course.
- A $200 Admissions Deposit. This deposit is required upon acceptance and must be paid before enrollment and before the New Student Packet, which includes the I-20, can be sent. It will be applied to first semester tuition and fees. If the student chooses to attend another institution after paying the deposit, the amount may be refunded minus an administrative withdrawal fee. The fee is refundable before May 1st for Fall applicants and before October 1st for Spring applicants depending upon the form of payment.
- For students outside the U.S., copies of the following items are not required for admissions but before the new student packet can be sent: A photocopy of immunization records* and copy of the passport biographical page(s). For students within the U.S., copies of the following items are not required for admissions but before the new student packet can be sent: Immunization record, passport, copy of visa or USCIS approval notice, I-94 and I-20. *Immunization records should include the history of immunizations for measles/mumps/rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, hepatitis B, and the results of a tuberculosis test.
- International Student Health Insurance Plan: By university policy, all F-1 international students are required to have health insurance, and students are automatically enrolled in the International Student Health Plan when they enroll in classes at MBU. Regardless of the number of credit hours being taken, enrolled international students must participate in the International Student Health Plan.
If a student arrives with sufficient coverage provided through a parent’s policy, through his/her home country’s government or through a spouse who is living or working in the U.S., the student may request a waiver of the university’s health insurance policy. The student must complete a Waiver Request form and submit it along with proof of insurance coverage (Valid Insurance card and complete coverage information in English) to the Office of International Student Services when the student first arrives on campus. This information must be submitted by the end of the first week of classes or the student’s account will be automatically billed for health insurance. Completion of the waiver is NOT a guarantee of the waiver’s approval.
The link to the complete policy for MBU international students is http://www.lewermark.com/mobap.
For those students applying for admission to the Teacher Education program, once the degree is documented as equivalent, it can be accepted to fulfill the minimum degree requirement for certification (see the section on General Certification Requirements.)
Missouri Baptist University requires that students have this evaluation done through one of the following agencies:
Academic & Professional International Evaluations, Inc.
Post Office Box 5787
Los Alamitos, California 90721-5787
Phone: (562) 594-6498
Fax: (562) 594-8498
Web site: www.apie.org
Contact the agency for instructions before sending documents.
American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers
International Education Services
One Dupont Circle NW
Suite 520
Washington, DC 20036-1135
Phone: (202) 293-9161
Fax: (202) 872-8857
Web site: www.aacrao.org
Contact the agency for instructions before sending documents.
**Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc
P.O. Box 514070
Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470
Phone (414) 289-3412
Fax: 414-289-3411
www.ece.org
** Students seeking teaching certification should NOT use ECE, Inc. This agency is not approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. For DESE approved evaluation agencies, see the Education section of the Bulletin.
Foreign Consultants, Inc.
Credential Evaluation Services
3000 Dundee Road
Suite 209
Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: (773) 761-0000 or (847) 498-4499
Fax: (847) 412-9570
Web site: www.foreignconsultants.com
Contact the agency for instructions before sending documents.
International Education Research Foundation, Inc.
Credentials Evaluation Service
Post Office Box 3665
Culver City, CA 90231-3665
Phone: (310) 258-9451
Fax: (310) 342-7086
Web site: www.ierf.org
Contact the agency for instructions before sending documents.
World Education Services, Inc. (preferred)
Bowling Green Station
Post Office Box 5087
New York, NY 10274-5087, USA
Phone: (212) 966-6311
Fax: (212) 966-6395
www.wes.org
The results from the evaluation must be mailed to Missouri Baptist University. This process will take 30 to 60 days.
There is a fee for this evaluation. Students may obtain an application for evaluation of transcripts by contacting any of the services listed above or through the Missouri Baptist University International Student Services Office by calling (314) 744-5301. Photocopies of transcripts, the application, and the fee must be submitted to the above address. This request should be made immediately after application for admission to Missouri Baptist University so that results will be received in time to meet International Student deadlines. Degrees from Foreign Educational Institutions must be verified before admittance
NOTE: Due to restrictions imposed by U.S. immigration law, International students in F-1 status may not be admitted into Online Programs. This does not restrict students from taking online courses as part of their curriculum; contact the International Student Services Office for specific details.
Students interested in programs requiring state certification or licensure must meet residency requirements established by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Missouri Committee for Professional Counselors. Completion of the master’s degree in these areas does not guarantee placement in a school or agency.
Enrollment Procedures for Graduate International Students
- Per immigration law, international students in F-1 or J-1 status must be enrolled a minimum of 12 credit hours (undergraduate) and 6 credit hours (graduate) in the Fall and Spring semesters to maintain their visa status. Immigration allows less than full-time enrollment in certain circumstances, such as final semester of study or documented medical illness. For a full listing of reasons, please contact the Office of International Student Services. If the student will not be enrolled full-time, he or she must receive permission from International Services prior to registering for less than a full course load or prior to dropping below a full course load.
- Only three (3) credit hours of distance learning (online) courses may be counted towards the minimum full-time enrollment requirement. If a student is registered for more than the minimum enrollment requirements, then that student may enroll in more than three credit hours of distance learning. For example, an undergraduate student enrolled in fifteen (15) total credit hours may take up to six (6) credit hours of on-line courses
- Students in their final semester of study may not enroll in only on-line course(s). This prohibition includes the summer semester if summer is the student’s final semester.
- Per immigration law, F-1 students must attend the college/university and campus listed on their current I-20 (immigration document). Most F-1 students will have immigration documents that list the Main (West County) campus as the campus of attendance. Only MEA and Ed.S. students will be admitted to complete their degree programs at a Regional Learning Center.
- Only five MBU Regional Learning Centers have been approved by the Department of Homeland Security’s Student and Exchange Visitor program to have international students. These are MBU-Troy/Wentzville, MBU at Jefferson College, MBU in Arnold, MBU in Union, and MBU in Pacific. International students must have prior approval from the Office of International Students to take courses at these locations.
- International Students in other visa or immigration statuses are not subject to the same restrictions as F-1 and J-1 students. International Students who are subject to the above requirements will have an alert in CAMS under the FERPA Warning section as International.
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