The courses must be relevant to the degree program 3. Hours must be approved by the department program committee and the Graduate School. Courses to be transferred have not been used to satisfy the requirements for another degree. The degree is granted in recognition of the candidate's high attainment as shown in coursework, on required examinations and by the preparation of a dissertation. Doctoral students are required to register for the EMS graduate seminar each term they are in residence.
Most doctoral students take four to five years of full-time study to complete the doctoral degree.
The residency year consists of three consecutive terms of full-time study, with a minimum of 9 completed graduate credits per term. After successful completion of comprehensive examinations, the student is advanced to candidacy and begins the dissertation process. All doctoral students must submit a dissertation based on independent and original research. A formal public defense of dissertation must take place on the campus at a date set by the committee chair and approved by the Graduate School. Doctoral students are encouraged to do laboratory rotations during their first year of study in all department laboratories and in laboratories of other appropriate departments.