Early in their first semester, doctoral students meet with the director of graduate studies and several faculty members to discuss the first year's program. At the end of the first year, students form their Special Committee, which guides and supervises subsequent academic preparation and dissertation research. By the end of the third year of residence, or sooner if possible, students are expected to have taken the Admission to Candidacy examination. At the oral exam, the student presents a thesis proposal outlining the hypothesis, data, methods, and resources needed to carry out the dissertation research. Applicants are required to submit GRE general test scores.
Admission is offered for the fall term only.
A combination of fellowships and teaching assistantships are provided to all Ph.D. degree candidates.