Steps to Fulfill Master’s 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 request of final oral or thesis defense; see OGS calendar. | Advisory committee, department head and OGS |
| 3 | If thesis is required, submit thesis proposal title page. | Must be submitted no later than 15 working days prior to submitting the request and announcement of final examination | Advisory committee department head and OGS |
| 4 | Apply for a degree online at the Howdy portal; pay graduation fee. | During the first week of final semester; pay graduation fee after graduate application is submitted; see OGS calendar | |
| 5 | Check to be sure degree program and advisory committee are up to date, and all ELP requirements (if applicable) and course work is complete. | Well before submitting request to schedule final examination | Advisory committee, graduate advisor, and department head |
| 6 | Complete residence requirement. (Check with your department to determine if there is a residency requirement.) | If applicable, before or during final semester | OGS |
| 7 | Submit request for permission to schedule final examination to OGS. | Must be received by OGS at least 10 working days before exam date (See OGS calendar for deadlines.) | Advisory committee, department head and OGS |
| 8 | If required, upload approved PDF file of the completed thesis 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