There are six established research tracks available for Ph.D. candidates. I is a qualifying exam, usually given after the first year. I consists of a written exam, based on a broad problem in the area of the student's research track. The exam emphasizes basic concepts to solve a fundamental problem, and the ability to integrate material. The student is called for a subsequent oral examination to defend the written exam approach, and cover areas of perceived weakness.
Examiners grade the exam on a pass, conditional pass, conditional fail, or fail basis.
If the grade is marginal, the exam chairman will require reexamination in that subject area. Exam II tests this readiness. It consists of a detailed written prospectus of proposed dissertation research and includes an oral examination. Exam II is administered by the student's supervisory committee who will subsequently review and evaluate the student's progress. Upon completion of Exam II, the committee composition may be altered by the JGSC, if necessary, although this is not customary.