Doctor of Philosophy Degree Timeline Checklist
- Designation of Major Professor - Immediately upon beginning program.
- Designation of Advisory Committee and Out-of-Department Representative - During first semester, prior to completing 12 credit hours of graduate work.
- Approval of Program of Study (POS) by Advisory Committee, and submission of POS to Dean of Graduate Education -Within second semester.
- Approval of Dissertation Topic by Advisory Committee - Before beginning research.
- Interim evaluation by Advisory Committee - Not later than halfway through coursework on POS.
- Comprehensive Exams - Not later than five months prior to defending dissertation.
- Application for Admission to Candidacy - Not later than four months prior to defending dissertation.
- Oral defense - Not later than 15 working days prior to graduation. (Examination Schedule Request must be submitted to Graduate Office 5 days prior to exam.)
- Dissertation submitted to Dean of Graduate Education for final approval - After all revisions/corrections mandated by Advisory Committee are complete, not later than 10 days prior to graduation.
- Final check out - Prior to leaving campus - make certain you have cleared up all financial obligations to the University, have turned in all of your keys, and have everything turned in to the Graduate Office. International Students, check with Suzi Aadland in the International Student Center.