Before taking the qualifying exam a doctoral student must have completed all University and departmental requirements except the dissertation. Coursework must have been successfully completed, the dissertation proposal must have been approved, and competence in the specific research skills to be used in the dissertation must have been demonstrated. The written exam will be completed over a five day period with the third day excused.
Students can elect examination by open or closed book.
Students must turn in printed examination answers. The oral exam usually takes place during the week following the written exam. The exam normally lasts about two hours and must be attended by the student's advisory committee. The Qualifying exam is a departmental exam entirely and does not require representation from the Graduate School. The student's advisor serves as chair of the examination in all of its parts.