In addition, the department encourages qualified students to compete for national fellowships, many of which permit a limited amount of teaching. Information on all types of fellowships is available from the Graduate School Office. Teaching assistantships generally involve service as undergraduate laboratory or recitation instructors. In addition to financial aid, these positions provide invaluable experience for students contemplating academic careers. Research assistantships are made available through the various grants awarded to the department by government agencies and industry to promote fundamental research.
Most research assistants are able to use the results of their work in their theses.
There are no foreign language requirements. Master's students are expected to present the results of their theses in a seminar and oral defense. Qualified students can bypass the MS degree and proceed directly toward the PhD. PhD degree requirements conform to Graduate School guidelines. There is a departmental requirement of seven graduate courses the first academic year, in keeping with ACS guidelines regarding graduate course work. All doctoral students are required to successfully complete a series of cumulative examinations beginning their first year.