OKLAHOMA CITY –
The University of Central Oklahoma has reached a historic milestone after receiving approval for its first Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in the university’s 136-year history.
The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education unanimously approved the Ph.D. in Applied Science during its October meeting. The program is still awaiting review by the Higher Learning Commission, the university’s accrediting agency.
The new program will offer three concentrations: biology, computer science and engineering. Students will participate in advanced coursework, research and industry internships to prepare for careers in Oklahoma’s growing science, technology, engineering and mathematics industries.
“The unanimous approval from the State Regents recognizes UCO’s primary role in preparing Oklahoma students for critical occupations and meeting the state’s workforce needs,” said UCO President Todd G. Lamb.
The approval also supports UCO’s goal of achieving R2 research university status by 2032. That designation requires institutions to spend at least $5 million annually on research and development and award at least 20 doctoral degrees each academic year.
UCO already meets the research spending requirement.
The Ph.D. will join the university’s existing doctoral programs in forensic science and education.
Learn more about UCO’s research initiative at uco.edu/academics/r2.
