The Nature of the Written Examination

The final written examination may include all course work, research and special projects the student has completed as a part of their program of study. Consult with your assigned advisor.

Scheduling the Written Examination

All candidates should contact their advisor upon admission to candidacy regarding the written examination requirement. Examinations must be offered on a designated date basis. Some programs have elected to include this requirement within a course(s).

Written Examination Committee

The written examination is developed, administered and evaluated in accordance with the established departmental/program guidelines. The oral examination/presentation cannot be scheduled until the written examination has been passed.

Grading the Written Examination

The department/program has the option of recommending a “pass,” “conditional” or “fail.” Candidates who receive “conditional” or “fail” on their first attempt will have one (1) opportunity to retake the written examination, with the approval of the department/program and the satisfaction of any conditions that the committee may require (e.g., additional course work, readings or projects). However, the second examination may not be attempted in the same semester/summer session as the original examination.