Exams & Degree Completion

Completion of coursework will normally take two and one-half years, including summers. At the end of the first year, each student writes a summer paper, which they must be successfully passed on in September. At the end of the second year, each student must complete three short research ideas, which will be due in October of their third year. Next, the student completes an oral exam, which is actually a pre-proposal dissertation defense. Upon successful completion of these exams, the student then begins his or her dissertation work. It is generally expected that students will complete all degree requirements within four years. Click here for further details.