Yes. The program offers students the choice of pursuing either a thesis or a non-thesis
option, though the Department strongly suggests that students interested in pursuing
a doctoral degree after graduation choose to write a thesis. Those students choosing
the non-thesis option take more elective classes than those choosing to write a thesis.
Non-thesis students are also required to take, and pass, a comprehensive written and
oral examination before being allowed to graduate. More information may be found in
the Requirements section of this website, or in the Graduate Catalog.