Thus, the effectiveness of both teaching and research is enhanced and substantial economies result from the sharing of resources. The Graduate Schooldisseminates information concerning external funding opportunities for research, and reviews proposals for such funding to determine their consistency with the research policies of the University. The School provides encouragement for faculty research activities through grants, travel support, symposia support and research fellowships. This money is allocated upon advice of the Research Council, members of which are appointed by the vice provost for research. A portion of the council's funds is reserved for summer research fellowships for faculty.
Selection is competitive.
The Graduate Faculty Senate is the governing body of the graduate faculty. Its members are elected representatives of degree-granting departments and area programs. The sectors review course changes, degree requirements, membership applications, as well as academic policy relevant to specific disciplines. Five standing committees consider general policy matters related to academic affairs, procedures, membership, graduate student appeals and research affairs. An executive committee guides and coordinates the activities of the senate.