Ph.D. Student Handbook (Students admitted before 2023)

Doctoral Examinations

The Doctoral Examinations are comprised of three separate examinations. They are designed to test and reinforce the competency, specialization, and preparation of students for carrying out dissertation research and writing and to test the student’s final dissertation.  The requirements of the Doctoral Examinations include a Preliminary Exam with written and oral components, a General Exam on the student’s final prospectus, and a Final Exam focused on the dissertation defense.

Each set of the doctoral exams operates on a specific timeline. Deviations from this timeline for the preliminary and general exams are not permitted without the express authorization of the Ph.D. Committee. Deviations from and extensions of the timeline for the Final Exam require the support of the Supervisory Committee Chair.