Preparation for Graduation
By the completion of the semester immediately preceding the final semester of study, students must apply for graduation within the guidelines established by the Graduate School. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that all requirements have been met and that every deadline is observed. The Graduate School, college, school, or department sets forth in the University Calendar all deadline dates. Students should obtain copies of Thesis/Dissertation Guidelines from the Graduate School and review them carefully prior to putting the thesis/dissertation into its final form.
Graduation Policy: Departments have the responsibility to clear prospective graduates for graduation and must follow the Graduate School policy on graduation requirements.
The following is a summary of critical items required for graduation:
- Candidates must complete and file an "Application for Graduation" with the Graduate School during the semester preceding the semester in which graduation is anticipated, within the deadline established by the Graduate School.
- The Candidate's graduation application form must be signed by the advisor and chairperson of the department and accompanied by a completed and approved "Plan of Studies",
- Candidates whose applications are approved must officially "check out" of the University, i.e., satisfy all financial responsibilities and obtain clearance from the appropriate offices/divisions on campus.
- Students who have completed all required courses and satisfied all departmental requirements may register for "Graduation Only" during the semester they intend to graduate.
- Candidates must pay a nonrefundable graduation fee during the term in which the degree is to be received, a student must be registered unless the only remaining requirement is the final comprehensive examination.
- Candidates who apply but fail to graduate must reapply and reregister for graduation during a subsequent semester or Summer, after correcting any and all deficiencies