Graduate Program Timeline
First Year
- Student in Residence
- Begin Coursework
- Participate in Teaching Roundtables and Department Events (speaker series, socials, etc.)
- Summer Pilot Research (optional, at end of either first or second year)
- Summer Teacher Training 3-day intensive course (mid-August before 2nd year)
Second Year
- Student in Residence
- Continue Coursework
- Complete Teaching Assistantship (first teaching requirement)
- Submit Methodology Requirements Proposal
- Finalize Dissertation Committee
- Participate in Teaching Roundtables and Department Events (speaker series, socials, etc.)
- Summer Pilot Research (optional, at end of either first or second year)
Third Year
- Student in Residence
- Continue Coursework
- Research Proposal Presentation - October
- Apply for Research Grants for Fourth Year
- Complete Teaching Associateship (second teaching requirement)
- Prepare For and Complete Qualifying Exams
- Complete Methodology Requirements
- Participate in Teaching Roundtables and Department Events (speaker series, socials, etc.)
- Advance to Candidacy*
- Apply for Master’s Degree based on advancement to candidacy (not a terminal degree)
Fourth Year
- Fieldwork or Laboratory Research
- Advance to Candidacy if not completed in third year * (must be in candidacy by the end of the 4th year)
Fifth Year and Beyond
- Continue Fieldwork/Laboratory Research
OR
- Return from Fieldwork and Begin Dissertation Write Up (In Residence)
- Complete Co-Teaching (third teaching requirement)
- Participate in Post-Field Seminars
- Participate in Teaching Roundtables and Department Events (speaker series, socials, etc.)
- Apply for Dean’s Teaching Fellowship (optional)
Final Year
- Complete Dissertation
- Schedule Dissertation Defenses (public and committee)
- Participate in Post-Field Seminars
- Participate in Teaching Roundtables and Department Events (speaker series, socials, etc.)
If a student has not completed all requirements for the Ph.D. by the end of the eighth year in advanced standing, the student may no longer be eligible to receive a tuition scholarship. Students enter advanced standing after completing 24 credit hours (one year) of coursework. Students entering the program with a master’s or other advanced degree enter the program in advanced standing.
Note: Not every student will follow the typical timeline. Individual time spent in field research or laboratory research may vary.
*Candidacy Requirements: 1) Complete 48 credit hours in advanced standing—including at least 24 credits in 500-700 level courses with grade B or better, 2) Complete first two teaching requirements, 3) Pass qualifying exams, 4) Complete methodology requirement as outlined by advisor, and 5) Submit Candidacy Application to Graduate School