Doctoral Requirements Overview

Before degree conferral is possible, all doctoral candidates must:

  • Maintain continuous registration until degree is conferred.
  • Complete a minimum of 72 credit hours of graduate study (see related policy on use of prior coursework, page 12).
  • Fulfill a minimum residency requirement of one year, which must include two consecutive semesters of full-time study in residence under the auspices of the University.
  • Successfully complete a departmental preliminary or qualifying examination.
  • Submit an Application to Candidacy within the proper dates to the Department for approval by the academic dean, Divisional or Area Committees and transmission to the Graduate School.
  • Submit a dissertation proposal abstract.
  • Complete an acceptable doctoral dissertation.
  • Complete additional requirements as the department might duly specify.