Honorary Degree
The Northwest Missouri State University honorary degree may be conferred to individuals who have:
- achieved distinction in academic endeavors; and/or
- achieved distinction in his/her profession; and/or
- rendered outstanding contributions or service to humanity; and/or
- made a recognized scholarly or service contribution as a regional, national, or international figure.
Institutional mission and complement of programs determine the types of honorary degrees that may be conferred. Honorary degrees may be selected from the following:
- Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.) - Awarded to someone who is distinguished in areas regarding humanities or welfare
- Doctor of Laws (LL.D.) - Awarded for contributions to government or public service
- Doctor of Letters (Litt.D.) - Awarded in recognition of contributions to literature or creative/performing arts
- Doctor of Pedagogy (Ped.D.) - Awarded to distinguished educators
- Doctor of Science (Sc.D.) - Awarded to recognize contributions to fields of science, social science, engineering, or technology
In general, the Northwest Missouri State University honorary degree may not be conferred:
- to faculty and staff members until at least five years after they have been separated from the university;
- to elected or appointed public officials of Missouri until at least on year after they have vacated office;
- in consideration of money or other gifts of value to the University; or
- to individuals posthumously or in absentia.
Any member of the Northwest Missouri State University faculty, staff, the Northwest Foundation, or the Northwest Leadership Team is eligible to submit nominations for an honorary degree. Candidates may not nominate themselves to receive an honorary degree. Final authority for awarding honorary degrees is vested in the Board of Regents.