Graduation

Graduation

Graduation from a degree program is not just the culmination of academic pursuits with the awarding of a diploma at a commencement ceremony. In the Graduate School, we see graduation as a process that must be managed to insure timely progress towards degree completion. 

Planning by students is essential because there are many steps and procedures that must be navigated in completing a degree.

All graduate students should have a general understanding of all the degree completion requirements that will be expected of them throughout their academic career. Each student is responsible for reviewing local graduate program expectations and all the processes outlined in the Graduate School Handbook.

Students should continually monitor their own progress. At least one to two quarters before a student's planned quarter of graduation, the Graduate School advises students to meet with faculty and staff in their local program to discuss:

• enrollment requirements
• the timing of culminating exams and projects
• defense scheduling
• required paperwork and corresponding deadlines

Summary of master's degree graduation requirements

Summary of doctoral degree graduation requirements

Careful management of these processes will help eliminate pitfalls while completing degrees, which will lead to an even more rewarding celebration with family and friends when diplomas are awarded at commencement.  

Frequently asked questions

Questions can be directed to staff members in Graduation Services, at (614) 292-6031.