The oral examination or thesis defense will be given before the end of the term in which the degree is to be conferred, with all the members of the candidate's committee present, and should meet the deadline specified in the Calendar. At least three months must elapse before re-examination. Graduate Council members are ex-officio members of all graduate committees. All members of the Council must be notified of the oral examination at least one week before the examination. All oral examinations will be open to the University community.
Some programs require a comprehensive written examination.
This will be arranged by the advisor. A copy of the final written examination must be filed with the Graduate School Office. For examination deadlines, please refer to the Calendar. A thesis alternative is provided in most major programs. The Master's Thesis original should offer evidence of substantial research and an adequate treatment of a well defined subject.