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Curriculum -- PhD

Curriculum -- PhD

Overview

The PhD Program involves several steps along your way to graduation. We think of these steps in stages. Each stage involves a few steps before you can move on to the next stage. 

Timeline of Major Milestones

You can use the timelines below as a general guide to your PhD program. Everyone's situation will be different, but this was created to help you begin your planning. Please note that summer semesters do not count in progress/limits.

Check out your personal timeline by using the GradPLAN Individual Development Plan.

Limits of Major Milestones

Milestone

Stage

Limits with approved BA/BS

Limits with approved MS/MA

Complete MS Equivalent Coursework if applicable (32 credit hours)I

2 years

Not applicable

Submit an Advisor Agreement

II

End of 2nd semester with approved petition

End of 2nd semester with approved petition

Qualifying exam – both written and oralII

During 6th semester with approved petition

During 4th semester with approved petition

Complete PhD Coursework – including Breadth Requirement (32 credit hours)II

4.5 years

3 years

Preliminary ExamII

5 years

4 years

Complete 599 thesis research credit (minimum 32 credit hours)III

7 years

6 years

Final Exam (Oral Defense)III

7 years


6 years

Thesis DepositIII

7 years


6 years

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