Mizzou identifies degree programs it might cut

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- The University of Missouri has identified five low-demand degree programs that it might eliminate.

A report obtained by The Columbia Tribune says the university told the Missouri Department of Education last week that no students are pursuing specialist degrees in two programs -- career and technical education and special education. Those programs could close immediately.

However, the university say its doctorate in special education program is one of the degree programs the university does not want to change.

The three other degrees considered for possible elimination are a master's degree in natural resources, a doctoral degree in communication sciences and a bachelor's degree in environmental geology.

The state education department has required public colleges to review programs that average fewer than 10 bachelor's, five master's and three doctoral graduates per year.