During the final stage of the program the student is occupied with independent research and the writing of the dissertation . All candidates for the doctoral degree must pass an oral examination conducted by at least five members of the University at the end of the dissertation writing process. At the time of admission, each student is assigned an academic advisor from among the members of the program area committee under which the student will work, and on the basis of shared professional interests. The student and advisor plan a program of study and experience that is appropriate to the student's background and career interests. The faculty and program area administrator can assist students with their general program requirements.
Advanced students are also a valuable resource.
Students are encouraged to complete their studies in four years. The first two years are dedicated primarily to course work, while the second two years focus on the process of preparing, undertaking, and completing the dissertation process. During their third and sixth quarters at Stanford, Ph.D. students undergo a qualifying procedure under the aegis of their program area committee. The purpose is to assess the student's preparation for dissertation research, to identify remaining training needs, and to determine the student's qualification for candidacy. Admission to doctoral candidacy is an acknowledgement of a student's potential to complete the requirements for the doctoral degree.