Thesis committees are usually interdisciplinary and are composed according to the type of research to be conducted. Ph.D. candidates must pass a written and oral comprehensive examination administered by their dissertation committee within four semesters of entering the program. An active research group focuses on the study of global environmental change. All students who complete applications by January 15 are considered for financial aid that is awarded on the basis of background and merit. Fellowships are awarded to the most academically qualified students.
Teaching assistants teach laboratory sections of undergraduate and graduate courses.
Most entering students are awarded a full tuition fellowship. Small grants to support research and travel to professional meetings are routinely awarded. Students with financial awards receive partial or complete tuition fellowships. A variety of affordable housing options exists, from small apartments near Grounds to houses in the country. Most students live off-grounds in shared apartments or houses.