Definition of Acceptable Progress
Students should meet the timetable outlined in the Checklist of Departmental Requirements. In addition, all students are expected to conduct themselves professionally as defined by University rules and by reasonable standards of academic communities. Students not in compliance may be denied Graduate Teaching and Graduate Research positions. Failure to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements is grounds for conversion to a terminal Masters program or to graduate with non-degree status. The Graduate Policy Committee will review the progress of students at least once each year to determine if acceptable progress is being made towards the degree. This committee may consult with the advisor or temporary advisor of individual students. If progress is lacking, the Graduate Policy Committee may recommend to the Head that a student be terminated from the program.
The Graduate College time requirement states that students must complete their degree within 5 years of passing the comprehensive exam (departmental time limits are more severe). Should a student not finish within that time period, he or she may be allowed to re-take the comprehensive exam with the permission of the program.
Appeal Procedures
Any decision affecting a student’s graduate career may be appealed. A student should first appeal to the level above which a decision was made. The sequence of appeal is Major Professor, Doctoral Committee, Graduate Policy Committee, Associate Department Head, Department Head, and Graduate Council. The student is entitled to a hearing to air grievances. Please refer to the Graduate College's Grievance Policy.
Students may also consult an Ombudsperson for informal grievances.
Contact the Graduate Coordinator with any questions about the process.