Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe today signed House Bill 419, Senate Bill 150 and Senate Bill 160 into law, officially granting Missouri State University the authority to independently offer Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programs. The legislation becomes effective Aug. 28.

The new law removes the University of Missouri system’s exclusive authority to grant research doctorates and certain professional degrees, including the Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology.

“This is a historic day for Missouri State University,” said President Richard B. Williams. “Gov. Kehoe’s signature on these bills gives our university the flexibility to respond to workforce needs and expand academic opportunities for current and future students across Missouri.”

The university will now begin evaluating which doctoral programs to add, focusing on meeting regional workforce needs across southwest Missouri and the state.

“We’re deeply grateful to bill sponsors Sen. Jill Carter, Sen. Brad Hudson and Rep. Don Mayhew, along with Sen. Lincoln Hough, House Majority Floor Leader Alex Riley, Rep. Melanie Stinnett, Sen. Sandy Crawford and all the legislators who championed this legislation,” Williams said. “We also thank Tom Strong and the Missourians Improving Higher Education group, as well as all the other advocacy groups that supported this legislation for their tireless advocacy over the past three years.

“The ability to independently offer doctoral programs will create new educational pathways for students and allow us to respond more effectively to the evolving demands of employers, industry partners and our communities.”