Neither a comprehensive exam nor a capstone seminar are required. A written report of the internship is required, as well as an oral comprehensive exam and a capstone seminar. The objectives of this examination are to determine the student's breadth and depth of knowledge in the chosen field of study, and to assess the student's ability to use that knowledge creatively and intelligently. The questions may address the internship report or other areas appropriate to the objectives of the examination. At the conclusion of the examination period, the student examinee and observers are excused from the room and the examining committee determines whether the student has passed the examination.
Unanimous agreement is required to pass the student.
If less than unanimous agreement is reached, the student is considered to have failed the comprehensive examination. The student can request a second examination. A student is considered to have passed the second examination if no more than one negative vote is cast. A student who has failed the second examination is terminated from the graduate program. The purpose of the capstone seminar is to provide an opportunity for the graduate student to present technical information to a critical body of professionals and peers.