Terminal Degrees


Guidelines for support to complete terminal degrees.

Who can apply

In disciplines experiencing shortages of available doctoral faculty, the Faculty Development Fund may provide up to $3,000.00 annually per faculty member to support work on the terminal degree.  Faculty who have been teaching full-time at UCA for at least one full academic year and who intend to continue employment at UCA upon completion of the terminal degree are eligible to apply for faculty development funds to support their studies.

What documentation to include

The application should include the following:

  • Letter of application describing the need for support
  • Signed statement agreeing to continue employment at UCA following completion of the degree (one year for each year of support received) or to repay the amount received.
  • List of courses to be completed and timeline for completion.
  • Letter of support from department chair and documentation of doctor shortages in the discipline and unsuccessful recruitment efforts for PhD level faculty.
  • Letter of support from college dean.
  • Itemized budget, including amounts for tuition, lodging, travel, etc.

When to apply

 Applications must be received at least two months prior to beginning the period of study for which support is being requested.  This will allow time for submission to and approval by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration.  Last minute applications cannot be approved in time for a candidate to receive funding.  Request may be for all terms within a single fiscal year if the entire application package is received by April 1.

Where to apply

Application packets should be sent to the following address:  

    Director of Faculty Development 
    Instructional Development Center
    215 Torreyson Library.

How funds will be distributed

Funds will be distributed by budget transfer from Faculty Development to the department in which the candidate is employed upon receipt of purchase orders or receipts for tuition or approved travel reimbursement forms.

last updated 10/20/05