Time to Degree
The average period for completion of all requirements for the Ph.D. degree is approximately five years beyond the bachelor's degree. Award of the doctorate requires satisfactory performance in course work, examinations, and the presentation of a thesis based upon original research. A representative or typical program follows:
Year 1
Three rotations in laboratories chosen by the student, choose thesis advisor in December and begin thesis project, complete core coursework and any deficiencies.
Year 2
Research, complete elective coursework, one semester of teaching, pass qualifying exam in April.
Year 3
Research, one semester of teaching, seminar course.
Year 4
Research, seminar course.
Year 5
Present research progress to thesis committee, thesis and final defense/examination.