Steps to Fulfill Doctoral Degree Requirements
Note: You must be continuously registered until all degree requirements have been met.
| Step | What to Do | When | Approved by |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Meet with departmental graduate advisor to plan course of study for first semester. | Before first semester registration | Graduate advisor |
| 2 | Establish advisory committee; submit your degree plan online. | Following the deadline imposed by the student’s college and approved no later than 90 working days prior to the preliminary exam. | Advisory committee, department head and OGS |
| 3 | Complete course work detailed on degree plan and ELP requirements (if applicable).. | Before preliminary exam | |
| 4 | Submit checklist and the report of the Preliminary Exam. | Must be received by OGS 10 working days after exam date and at least 14 weeks prior to the final defense date | Advisory committee, department head and OGS |
| 5 | Submit proposal for dissertation or record of study. | No later than 15 working days prior to submission of the Request and Announcement of Final Examination | Advisory committee, department head and OGS |
| 6 | Complete residence requirement. (Check with your department to determine if there is a residency requirement.) | Before submitting request to schedule final oral examination | OGS |
| 7 | Apply for a degree online at the Howdy portal; pay graduation fee. | During the first week of the final semester; pay graduation fee after graduate application is submitted; see OGS calendar for deadlines | OGS |
| 8 | Submit request for permission to hold and announce final oral examination. | Must be received by OGS at least 10 working days before final exam date; see OGS calendar for deadlines. | Advisory committee, department head and OGS |
| 9 | Upload approved PDF file of the completed dissertation or record of study and submit signed approval page to the Thesis Office. | See OGS calendar for deadlines. | Advisory committee, department head and OGS |
| 9 | Graduation; arrange for cap and gown. | More information |
Graduate Studies Calendar