Students writing theses or dissertations are given final oral examinations. Others are usually given both written and oral examinations. Oral examinations are open to all regular members of the faculty as observers. Oral examinations are not open to non-faculty without permission of the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research. If the candidate's program requires a thesis, copies in substantially final form shall be in the hands of the examining committee at least two weeks before the date scheduled for the oral examination.
Oral examinations are to be held at least two weeks prior to the date of graduation.
If any member questions whether or not the substance or form of the thesis or dissertation is adequate, the committee as a whole decides if the thesis is sufficiently prepared for an oral examination. The major advisor is responsible for reporting a grade to the Registrar for all prior thesis registrations of the candidate when the thesis has been approved by the examining committee. If the candidate's program requires no thesis, the department or college is responsible for having a written examination on the degree program prepared and administered. If the student's performance is judged to be satisfactory or if it is determined that deficiencies may be cleared up during the oral examination, the examining committee conducts the oral examination on the scheduled date. Otherwise, the student may be expected to complete subsequent requirements before the oral examination is held.