Best PhD and Doctoral Programs in Missouri: Online & Campus

Est. Time: 6 mins

Updated: 04/21/2026

Learn about the many doctoral and PhD programs in Missouri. Discover what these programs can do for your career and earning potential.

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Aerial view of a cityscape in Missouri at dusk featuring a historic courthouse with a green dome, surrounded by modern high-rise buildings and busy streets illuminated by streetlights.

Missouri offers a wide range of PhD and doctoral programs, each with the potential to support career growth or a new direction.

But is earning a doctorate worth the time and effort? This guide helps you decide by breaking down program options, formats, and funding opportunities.

You’ll also get a look at career paths and earning potential after graduation so you can plan your next move with confidence.

Top-Rated PhD and Doctoral Programs in Missouri

There are many high-quality PhD programs in Missouri, and figuring out which one is perfect for you might feel daunting. Three top-notch Missouri schools that offer doctorate degrees are identified below to help you being your school search. They were selected based on several factors, including their program options, convenience, and affordability. These schools give you a good idea of what to look for during your doctorate program search.

University of Missouri-Columbia

The University of Missouri–Columbia offers 70+ doctoral programs across a wide range of fields.

Program highlights:

Fully online options available with no required campus visits
Traditional programs like DNP and PhD in Economics
Unique offerings such as Agricultural Education and Natural Resources (forestry)

Students also have access to strong funding opportunities, including:

Fellowships and assistantships
Graduate-only scholarships

Why it stands out: Mizzou combines program variety, flexibility, and funding support in one place.

Maryville University of Saint Louis

Maryville University of Saint Louis offers a mix of on-campus and online doctoral programs.

On-campus options include:

EdD in Educational Leadership
EdD in Teacher Leadership
Doctor of Physical Therapy (Direct Entry)

Online options include:

EdD in Higher Education Leadership
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with tracks such as:
- BSN to DNP
- MSN to DNP
- DNP-Nurse Practitioner with multiple concentrations

Most online programs include in-person components, like residencies or clinicals. In some cases, these can be completed near your home or workplace.

Why it stands out: Maryville offers flexible doctoral pathways with strong options in education and nursing.

Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University (SLU) offers 70+ doctoral programs, making it one of the most comprehensive options in Missouri.

Program highlights:

A wide range of joint-degree options, including combinations with law, accounting, and healthcare ethics
A mix of traditional and interdisciplinary programs

Online options include:

PhD in Nursing
Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-BSN and Post-MSN)
PhD in Aviation

Some programs are fully online, while others include hands-on or clinical components.

Why it stands out: SLU offers extensive program variety with opportunities to combine disciplines and specialize your degree.

Types of PhD and Doctoral Programs Available in Missouri

Missouri offers several doctoral program formats to fit different schedules and goals.

These options are designed to make it easier to enroll, manage costs, and stay on track while earning your degree.

Below are some of the most common on-campus and online formats to consider.

Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in Missouri

Full-time PhD programs in Missouri are the most common option.

Most students take two to three courses per term, which can be easier to manage from a scheduling standpoint.

That said, the workload is still demanding, so be prepared to stay focused and committed throughout the program.

Part-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in Missouri

Part-time doctoral programs in Missouri are a good option if you need a lighter workload.

Most students take one to two courses per term, making it easier to balance school with work or family commitments.

Even with a slower pace, your overall timeline may not increase much, since the dissertation is often the longest part of the program.

Fully-Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs in Missouri

Many doctoral programs offer funding packages that can cover most or all education costs.

In some cases, these are automatically awarded when you’re admitted.

Funding may include:

Grants, scholarships, or fellowships
Teaching or research assistantships

These opportunities can significantly reduce costs while also providing valuable experience.

No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs in Missouri

Online doctoral programs in Missouri are popular because they allow you to complete most coursework remotely.

That said, admissions can still be competitive, and some programs require GRE or other test scores.

The good news is that a growing number of programs now offer no-GRE options, making it easier to apply without the added time and expense of test prep.

Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs in Missouri

Accelerated doctoral programs are less common, mainly because the dissertation or final project takes the most time.

For many students, coursework moves quickly. The real timeline often depends on how fast you complete your research.

Even without a formal accelerated track, many programs are self-paced, giving you the flexibility to move faster if you stay focused.

No Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs in Missouri

Most doctoral programs in Missouri require a final project, often centered on research.

The most intensive option is the dissertation, which is required for nearly all PhD programs and usually takes the most time to complete.

If you’re looking to avoid a dissertation, consider a professional doctorate, which may offer alternatives like capstone or applied projects.

Look closely at how well online students are integrated into faculty research and mentorship, not just coursework. The best programs still offer strong collaboration and opportunities to publish or present, even in an online format. That level of engagement can make a big difference in your long-term career growth.

Timon Kaple

Popular Fields to Earn Your PhD and Doctoral Degree in Missouri

Doctor of Nursing Practice

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree for nurses who want to advance in clinical practice or leadership.

With a DNP, you can:

Work as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN)
Specialize in areas like women’s health, mental health, primary care, or anesthesia

Some programs also focus on leadership and administration, preparing nurses for executive or managerial roles.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

University of Missouri-Columbia

Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs

Doctor of Physical Therapy

A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is required to become a licensed physical therapist.

Physical therapists help patients:

Manage pain and recover from injuries
Improve movement and mobility

They are responsible for evaluating patients and creating treatment plans, which is why a doctoral degree is required for this role.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Doctor of Education

Unlike a PhD in Education, a Doctor of Education (EdD) focuses on applying advanced theories and concepts in real-world settings.

This makes it ideal for:

Educators and administrators aiming for executive or leadership roles
Professionals interested in developing and implementing education policy

It’s also a strong option if you want to move into non-classroom roles within education-focused organizations.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs

English

The main reason to earn a PhD in English is to pursue a career in academia, especially teaching at the college or university level.

Graduates also:

Conduct research in literature, writing, and related fields
Work in areas like publishing or education

This degree can also support roles in community colleges, secondary schools, and industry settings where strong writing and analysis skills are valued.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Clinical Psychology

The main reason to earn a doctoral degree in clinical psychology is to become a licensed psychologist.

PsyD programs: Focus on clinical practice and working with patients
PhD programs: Support clinical work but also emphasize research and academic careers

Both paths can lead to licensure, so your choice depends on whether you prefer direct patient care or research and teaching.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

As you explore programs, take a close look at career outcomes and alumni paths from each program. Strong programs are transparent about where graduates end up and often provide networking or placement support. That insight can help you gauge whether the program truly aligns with your long-term goals.

Timon Kaple

Earning Your PhD or Professional Doctorate Online in Missouri

Online doctoral programs in Missouri are popular because they make it easier for working adults to stay in school.

There are two key things to keep in mind:

Program format: Some programs are fully online, like the EdD in Higher Education Leadership at Maryville University, but many are hybrid
- For example, the DNP at the University of Missouri–Kansas City combines online coursework with in-person training
Class structure: Courses may be
- Synchronous, with scheduled class times
- Asynchronous, allowing you to study on your own schedule

Some schools, like Missouri University of Science and Technology, offer a mix of both formats.

Before enrolling, review the details so you understand exactly how much flexibility and in-person time is required.

Where to Get Help Paying for Your PhD or Doctoral Degree in Missouri

Doctoral students in Missouri have access to a range of financial aid options.

These include:

Federal loans, such as Direct PLUS Loans
Fellowships and assistantships that don’t require repayment

For example, the University of Missouri–Columbia offers numerous teaching and research assistantships.

Keep in mind, many of these funding options require you to work while studying, often through teaching or research roles.

Other schools, like the Missouri University of Science and Technology, also offer graduate scholarships, and you can find additional support through outside organizations and nonprofits.