PhD Accountancy Admissions

General Admission Requirements

Applicants should complete the University of Missouri’s Graduate Application by December 1 for full consideration for admission in the fall. However, applications are accepted until February 1. The program is full-time; no online options are offered. This program does not offer application fee waivers.

Strong applicants have a demonstrated record of academic accomplishment, intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm for discovery and a general understanding of the demands of a doctoral program. Work experience in business, management, research or similar endeavors is very welcome but not required.

Prior to making admissions decisions, we encourage candidates to meet with faculty and current doctoral students. Please contact the department PhD Coordinator with questions.

Language proficiency requirements for international students

All non-native English-speaking applicants are required to provide proof of English language ability. Please visit the Graduate School website to see the required minimum scores.

Every non-native speaker of English must have sufficient oral-English proficiency before taking a teaching position. The Teaching Assistant Instructional & Language Support (TAILS) program offers a no-cost assessment called the English Proficiency Interview via Zoom. Alternatively, students with a TOEFL or IELTS or Duolingo English Test score less than two years old may use their speaking sub-score as an initial language assessment.

Some non-native English-speaking applicants may be exempt from the English language requirement.

PhD Accountancy Requirements

The School of Accountancy admits two students per year to the PhD in Accountancy program. International applicants are considered for admission, but only if they have evidence of strong English-language skills and have either studied or worked in an English-language setting. International applications from individuals who do not meet these conditions will not be admitted into the program.

Criteria for admission includes a record of outstanding prior academic performance, a competitive GMAT score and strong letters of reference. Prior graduate study and work experience are highly desirable. Students admitted to the program normally have an accounting background and some professional work experience. However, applications from highly qualified applicants without work experience and with backgrounds in other fields may be considered. Before an admission decision is made, the PhD Policy Committee requires a campus interview to ensure a good match between the program and the applicant's background and career goals.

Applicants should submit their materials by December 1 for admission in the following fall semester, although applications are accepted until February 1. Admission to the PhD program in accountancy is highly selective. Applicants should demonstrate a strong record of academic accomplishment, intellectual curiosity, enthusiasm for discovery, and a general understanding of the demands of a doctoral program. Prior academic coursework, research experience, and employment activities in accountancy are encouraged but not required.

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